Reverse shoulder replacement

Grannyannie

Hi , I am new to this group.

I have been told I need to have both shoulders replaced due to severe osteoarthritis, since then i have been diagnosed with severe arthritis in my big toe ,both knees and both hands

I have to make the decision whether to have the shoulder operation which is a big one and has risks or carry on with the pain and restrictions in use .I will still have to take medication because of the other joints p laying up now.

Can anyone who has had the reverse shoulder op tell me how it went please ?

Any advice will be gratefully received

Tom

Welcome to the forum, @Grannyannie . I see that you are facing a decision on whether to have both shoulders replaced. Your hands, big toe and both feet are also affected.

Here is a link to our website’s information on this procedure:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/surgery/shoulder-and-elbow-replacement/

I have also found this discussion thread that is from an RA patient, but is still useful:

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/53015/total-reverse-shoulder-replacement-from-a-rheumatoid-s-viewpoint

We wish all the best in arriving at your decision and with the operation if you decide to have it.

Here is some information and tips on living with the condition:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2022/april/everyday-tips-for-living-with-arthritis/

Take care and let us know how you get on.

Tom, Moderator.

Grannyannie

Thankyou very much, it's nice to know someone is out there with helpful information

crinkly

I also had a reverse shoulder replacement - mine due to OA + a fall at age 72. I reported in some detail via this forum and you can still find the account of my journey by searching 'Total Reverse Shoulder Replacement Feb.2019'.

Like you I have OA in many other joints, first diagnosed in my mid 40s, but I have had no other total replacements. My recovery was slow and not always smooth but I have no regrets and know I am much better off than if I'd accepted the severe pre-surgery restrictions and opted to live with them.

Yes, there are a few permanent limitations but I can do most of the things I want to do without any problem and have found alternative ways of coping independently when necessary. There is some occasional remaining discomfort that reminds me not to overstep the boundaries but on many days I do not think about the shoulder at all. My unoperated shoulder is complaining now (I had minor surgery on it some years ago) and, if it reaches the levels of pain and poor movement of it's 'partner' I would definitely consider another replacement.

Specialist surgeons are gaining in skill all the time and, in my case, worked closely with dedicated Physiotherapists to ensure the best possible outcome - all courtesy of the NHS.

You say that both your shoulders need replacing so it may be well worth opting for the worst one to be operated on and you will then have a good idea of whether to go ahead with the second. Be prepared for a lengthy rehab as muscles have to be re-educated.

Do ask any questions you think I may be able to help with.

Wishing you well in your decision-making. ☺️

lindalegs

Hi @Grannyannie

I wrote the account of my experience of the TRSR surgery in the above link. I feel I covered all avenues there but if you do need to know anything else, please ask. ☺️

Love, Legs xx