Shoulder Replacement Palm Beach County
(561) 746-7686
1002 S Old Dixie Hwy Jupiter, FL 33458
Monday - Thursday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday | 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
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Shoulder replacement surgery in Palm Beach County has been a proven, life-enhancing solution for patients suffering from chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, or loss of function as a result of arthritis, rotator cuff injury, or trauma. Dr. Diaz offers a comprehensive evaluation and expert care to determine whether a shoulder replacement is the right choice for you.
Depending on the underlying condition and anatomy of the shoulder, patients may benefit from either a traditional Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA) or a Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA). Both procedures are designed to restore function, relieve pain, and significantly improve quality of life.
Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA)
Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA) is most often recommended for patients with:
Advanced osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis
An intact rotator cuff
Pain that is unresponsive to non-surgical treatments
Limited range of motion that interferes with daily activities
TSA involves replacing the damaged ball of the humerus with a metal implant and resurfacing the socket (glenoid) with a medical-grade plastic component. By mimicking the natural anatomy of the shoulder joint, TSA aims to restore smooth motion and reduce joint pain. Ideal candidates typically have preserved rotator cuff function and relatively normal joint alignment.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA)
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA) is indicated for patients who have:
A massive or irreparable rotator cuff tear
Cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis secondary to rotator cuff deficiency)
Prior failed shoulder surgeries
Severe fracture or dislocation of the shoulder
In RSA, the ball and socket components are reversed: the ball is placed on the socket side (scapula) and the socket on the arm bone (humerus). This allows the deltoid muscle to compensate for a deficient or non-functioning rotator cuff, enabling improved arm elevation and pain relief. RSA is often the preferred choice in cases where traditional TSA would not provide adequate function or stability.
Preparing for Surgery
Dr. Diaz’s team will coordinate all necessary preoperative testing, including bloodwork and medical clearance from your primary care physician or cardiologist. You’ll also meet with the hospital’s anesthesia team about a week before surgery and schedule an appointment with Dr. Diaz to review imaging and answer any final questions.
In most cases, you’ll need to stop taking blood thinners and arthritis medications five days before your procedure. Focus on maintaining good nutrition. If weight loss was previously recommended, stop losing weight two weeks before surgery and aim to maintain your weight during recovery. Diabetic patients should ensure tight blood sugar control and consult with their internist or endocrinologist if needed.
The night before surgery, shower using the provided surgical soap, thoroughly cleansing the shoulder, upper back, underarm, neck, and chest. Then, wipe those areas with a cloth soaked in 3% hydrogen peroxide.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. If you take blood pressure or thyroid medications, take them as scheduled with a small sip of water. If you’ve already received your sling, place it in the car you’ll take to the hospital.
Packing list for your hospital stay:
Button-down, loose-fitting shirt
Pants with an elastic waistband
Comfortable shoes without laces
Toiletries (toothbrush, brush, face cream)
Non-perishable snacks
Cell phone and charger
Reading glasses or hearing aids if needed
Please leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
The Day of Surgery
Upon arrival, you’ll receive an IV and antibiotics. A regional nerve block may be administered to numb the shoulder, lasting anywhere from 6 to 24 hours to help manage pain.
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, but additional time is needed for anesthesia and positioning, so expect the total time in the operating room to be closer to 3 hours. After surgery, you’ll recover in the PACU for 1-2 hours before moving to your hospital room or being discharged.
If you’re alert and not too nauseous, light walking with supervision is encouraged later the same day to help with circulation and orientation. Once you regain movement, gently flex and extend your fingers and elbow to prevent stiffness. Do not move your shoulder until cleared by Dr. Diaz.
Discharge and Going Home
Most patients are discharged the day after surgery, though some may go home the same day depending on their recovery and support system at home.
Pain Management
Prescription pain medication will be provided. The goal is to transition off these medications within a week, depending on your individual pain level. If appropriate, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories may be recommended.
Sleeping After Surgery
Many patients find it most comfortable to sleep in a recliner chair for several weeks after surgery. Alternatively, propping yourself up with supportive pillows in bed is also an option. Always wear the sling while sleeping unless otherwise directed.
Cold Therapy for Pain and Swelling
A cold therapy machine (ice machine) can help reduce swelling and pain. If you’d like to rent one, please let the office know. Reusable gel packs are also effective.
Caring for the Incision
The bandage applied in the operating room is sterile and water-resistant. Keep it in place for at least seven days, or until partially healed. You may shower with it on, as long as the shoulder is turned away from the water or a handheld shower-head is used. Replacement bandages will be provided. Do not get the incision fully wet until your two-week follow-up.
Sling Use
Keep your arm in the sling unless showering or using your hand for basic activities like brushing teeth, shaving, or eating. Keep the hand positioned in front of your face and avoid reaching behind or out to the side.
For anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), the sling is typically worn for six weeks to protect the repaired front rotator cuff.
For reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), immobilization typically lasts 4–6 weeks depending on healing progress.
When bathing, you can lean forward and let your arm dangle out of the sling to stretch the elbow and allow access to your underarm.
Activity Level After Surgery
Engage in light indoor activity like walking to prevent blood clots and constipation. Avoid sweating, as it can increase infection risk.
Resuming Driving
Reaction time can be delayed for up to six weeks following shoulder surgery. You should not drive until you’re no longer in a sling and you’re off all narcotic pain medication. Always check with Dr. Diaz first. Begin with short, familiar trips and have another licensed driver accompany you.
Returning to Work and Sports
Return timelines depend on your job and the demands it places on your shoulder.
Sedentary jobs: May return as early as two weeks with modifications.
Physically demanding jobs: May require up to 12 weeks off or modified duties.
Most patients can return to activities like golf, tennis, and swimming around 4-5 months post-surgery, though some may be cleared sooner depending on the case.
Shoulder replacement surgery, whether Total Shoulder Arthroplasty or Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty, offers meaningful relief and restored function to patients in Palm Beach County suffering from advanced shoulder disease.
Dr. Diaz applies the latest techniques in shoulder arthroplasty and tailors every treatment plan to each patient’s specific condition, anatomy, and activity level. From diagnosis through recovery, you’ll receive attentive, specialized care with a focus on long-term success and improved quality of life.