If chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, and arthritis are preventing you from enjoying daily activities, shoulder arthroplasty may provide lasting relief. Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in advanced shoulder treatments, including shoulder replacement surgery for patients suffering from severe shoulder arthritis, joint degeneration, and shoulder injuries. Serving patients throughout Rockford, IL, Dr. Van Thiel utilizes modern surgical techniques and personalized treatment plans to help restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
Whether your symptoms are caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or a previous shoulder injury, Dr. Van Thiel will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most effective treatment option. When conservative treatments such as medications, injections, and physical therapy no longer provide relief, shoulder arthroplasty can help patients return to the activities they enjoy with greater comfort and function.
About 50 million men and women in the U.S. suffer from arthritis, a progressive and debilitating condition that's caused by the gradual wearing away of joint surfaces.
Most shoulder arthritis occurs after years of wear and tear on the joint, especially among women and men who are more physically active. As the joint surfaces become worn, friction inside the joint increases, triggering inflammation that leads to pain, stiffness and limited mobility. Other times, arthritis can develop following an injury like a rotator cuff tear, a shoulder dislocation or a fracture.
There's no cure for arthritis, and that means most people with moderate to severe arthritis will need to consider having the joint components replaced at some point using a state-of-the-art surgical procedure called shoulder arthroplasty.
What is shoulder arthroplasty?
Shoulder arthroplasty (a type of shoulder surgery) uses special techniques to remove and replace the damaged portions of the shoulder joint including the ball-shaped head at the end of the upper arm bone (the humerus) and the cup-shaped receptacle (the glenoid) on the upper torso. In a few cases, a partial joint replacement procedure can be used to replace just one part of the joint, but most patients benefit from a total joint replacement that helps restore normal joint function.
There are different approaches to surgery, depending on the patient's specific needs and anatomy, as well as the type of prosthetic (implant) that's being used. Generally speaking, arthroplasty begins with an incision made between the muscles of the shoulder. Bone spurs and scar tissue that limit the joint's range of motion are removed first. Then the ball portion of the prosthetic joint is fitted in place. This part of the prosthetic features a long “stem” that fits inside the arm bone.
Next, the glenoid cavity is carefully shaped and smoothed so the prosthetic component fits securely. A special cement is used to hold the new glenoid component in place. Most procedures take about three hours, and you can expect to remain in the hospital for two to five days following the procedure.
Shoulder Arthritis Treatment & Recovery?
Immediately after shoulder surgery, you'll be given pain medication to relieve discomfort in the shoulder area, and you'll probably be given antibiotics as well. A special brace will be provided to hold the shoulder in an ideal position and to support the joint throughout the initial stages of healing.
Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process following shoulder replacement surgery, and you can expect to begin therapy the day after your procedure or even on the same day as your procedure to facilitate healing and circulation. You'll continue visiting a therapist after your discharge from the hospital, and you'll also be given exercises to do at home. It's very important to do your exercises as prescribed to make sure you recover as quickly and completely as possible. During physical therapy, you'll gradually increase your activity as the joint stabilizes, but you shouldn't expect to do any lifting, pushing or pulling for several weeks, and you'll need to avoid driving for a month to six weeks to avoid stressing the joint.
Am I a good candidate for shoulder arthroplasty?
Like any joint replacement surgery, shoulder arthroplasty is only considered for people with moderate to severe arthritis with symptoms that limit regular activities and that can't be adequately relieved with medications and therapy alone. The best way to know if shoulder arthroplasty can help you eliminate your painful shoulder symptoms once and for all is to call Dr. Van Thiel with OrthoIllinois at to schedule a consultation and evaluation so you can find out about all the options that can help you get back to the activities you love.
Why Choose Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel for Shoulder Arthroplasty in Rockford, IL?
Choosing the right surgeon for shoulder replacement surgery is one of the most important decisions you can make for your long-term joint health. Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience treating complex shoulder conditions and performing advanced shoulder procedures.
Patients throughout Rockford and Northern Illinois choose Dr. Van Thiel because of his:
- Expertise in shoulder arthritis and joint replacement surgery
- Fellowship training in sports medicine and minimally invasive orthopedic procedures
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's goals and lifestyle
- Commitment to utilizing advanced surgical techniques and proven implant technologies
- Comprehensive approach to recovery, rehabilitation, and return to activity
- Reputation for providing exceptional orthopedic care throughout the Rockford area
Dr. Van Thiel works closely with each patient to ensure they understand their diagnosis, treatment options, expected outcomes, and recovery timeline before proceeding with surgery.
Shoulder Arthroplasty FAQs
What is shoulder arthroplasty?
Shoulder arthroplasty, also known as shoulder replacement surgery, is a procedure that replaces damaged portions of the shoulder joint with prosthetic components to reduce pain and restore function.
Who is a candidate for shoulder replacement surgery?
Patients with moderate to severe shoulder arthritis, chronic shoulder pain, significant stiffness, and limited mobility that does not improve with nonsurgical treatments may be candidates for shoulder arthroplasty.
How long does shoulder replacement surgery take?
Most shoulder arthroplasty procedures take approximately two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of replacement being performed.
How long is recovery after shoulder arthroplasty?
Recovery varies by patient, but most individuals begin physical therapy immediately after surgery and continue rehabilitation for several months. Many patients experience significant improvements in pain and function within three to six months.
Will I need physical therapy after shoulder replacement?
Yes. Physical therapy is a critical part of recovery and helps restore strength, flexibility, mobility, and overall shoulder function following surgery.
How long do shoulder replacement implants last?
Modern shoulder implants are designed to be durable and can often last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on activity level, overall health, and implant type.
What conditions can shoulder arthroplasty treat?
Shoulder arthroplasty is commonly used to treat:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
- Severe shoulder joint degeneration
- Certain complex shoulder fractures
When should I see a shoulder replacement specialist?
You should schedule an evaluation if shoulder pain, weakness, stiffness, or loss of motion is affecting your ability to perform daily activities, sleep comfortably, or participate in work, sports, or recreational activities.
