Shoulder replacement surgery is done to relieve pain and other symptoms that result from damage to the shoulder joint.

Conditions that can damage the joint include:

• Osteoarthritis: Known as wear-and-tear arthritis, osteoarthritis damages the cartilage that covers the ends of bones and helps joints move smoothly.
• Rotator cuff injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff injuries sometimes can result in damage to cartilage and bone in the shoulder joint.
• Fractures: Fractures of the upper end of the humerus may require replacement, either as a result of the injury or when the prior surgery for fracture fixation has failed.
• Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory disorders: Caused by an overactive immune system, the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis can damage the cartilage and occasionally the underlying bone in the joint.
• Osteonecrosis: Some types of shoulder conditions can affect blood flow to the humerus. When a bone is starved of blood, it can collapse.

A doctor diagnoses conditions that may require shoulder replacement surgery by performing a physical exam, taking X-rays, and sometimes ordering other tests:

Physical exam
The doctor will check for any visible abnormalities or changes in the shoulder, and note pain levels during rest and activity.
X-rays
X-rays can confirm arthritis by showing loss of joint space in the shoulder joint.
CT scan
A CT scan may be needed to evaluate bone integrity.
MRI
An MRI can assess the condition of soft tissues, such as the rotator cuff tendon.
EMG test or nerve conduction study
If the doctor suspects nerve damage, they may order an EMG test or nerve conduction study.

Shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure that involves replacing the ball and socket of the shoulder joint with a prosthetic: 

A shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged shoulder joint with an artificial component to treat pain and dysfunction. It’s often recommended when other treatments have failed and the patient is still experiencing severe pain and loss of function.

Some reasons why a shoulder replacement might be needed include:

• Arthritis
• Shoulder instability
• Severe pain
• Previous injuries
• Avascular necrosis

Shoulder replacement recovery varies from person to person, but it typically takes three to six months to fully recover.

Key Points:

• Pain and swelling: You can expect pain and swelling to taper off within the first four days. 
• Physical therapy: You’ll start physical therapy within a week or two to help strengthen your shoulder muscles and improve movement.
• Activities: You should avoid activities that involve reaching or using your shoulder a lot, lifting heavy objects, or making sudden movements. You should also avoid putting your arm behind your back or using it to push yourself up
• Blood thinners: If you take a blood thinner, you should follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. 
• Pain medication: Your doctor will tell you when and how to take pain medication.

Rehabilitation focuses on restoring shoulder function through physical therapy. This includes range of motion exercises, strength training, and pain management. The goal is to regain strength, flexibility, and stability in the shoulder. Functional activities are gradually reintroduced to help you return to daily tasks and activities with improved shoulder health.

Key Points:

• Tailored exercises to regain strength and mobility.
• Specific movements to improve shoulder flexibility.
• Exercises to rebuild shoulder strength and stability.
• Techniques and medications to manage post-rehabilitation discomfort.
• Gradual reintroduction to daily tasks and activities.

Preventing shoulder injuries involves regular exercise to strengthen the shoulder muscles, using proper techniques during physical activities, and avoiding overuse. Warm-up and stretching exercises help prepare the muscles for activity, while ergonomic adjustments ensure proper alignment and posture during daily tasks, reducing the risk of injury.

Key Points:

• Strengthening shoulder muscles to prevent injuries.
• Using correct techniques during physical activities and sports.
• Preventing repetitive strain on the shoulder joint.
• Preparing muscles before intense activities.
• Proper alignment and posture during daily tasks.