Joint Replacement Surgery
Fellowship-trained total and reverse shoulder replacement surgery for arthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, and complex shoulder conditions. Serving Platteville, WI, Dubuque, IA, Galena, IL, and the tri-state region.
Overview
Shoulder replacement — or shoulder arthroplasty — is performed when the cartilage surfaces of the glenohumeral joint have deteriorated to the point that pain and loss of motion significantly limit daily life. It is one of the fastest-growing joint replacement procedures in orthopedics, with excellent long-term outcomes for appropriately selected patients.
Common causes include primary osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, osteonecrosis, and rotator cuff arthropathy — a specific pattern of arthritis that develops when the rotator cuff is severely and chronically torn.
Dr. Strassman performs both total shoulder replacement (anatomic) and reverse total shoulder replacement, selecting the approach based on the integrity of the rotator cuff, degree of bone loss, and patient-specific functional goals.
You may be a candidate if you have:
Shoulder arthritis confirmed on X-ray or MRI
Significant pain at rest or with activity
Failed conservative treatment (PT, injections)
Limited ability to reach, lift, or perform daily tasks
Rotator cuff arthropathy or massive irreparable cuff tear
Procedure Options
The choice between total (anatomic) and reverse shoulder replacement depends critically on the status of the rotator cuff. Dr. Strassman evaluates this with advanced imaging and clinical examination at your consultation.
| Factor | Total Shoulder (Anatomic) | Reverse Total Shoulder |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Arthritis with intact rotator cuff | Rotator cuff arthropathy, massive cuff tear, or failed prior repair |
| How it works | Resurfaces ball and socket anatomically | Reverses ball-and-socket geometry — deltoid takes over from cuff |
| Overhead motion | Excellent if cuff intact | Good — deltoid compensates effectively |
| Pain relief | Excellent | Excellent |
| Longevity | 15–20 years typical | 10–15 years, improving with modern implants |
| Recovery | 4–6 weeks sling, 3–6 months full | 4–6 weeks sling, 3–6 months full |
What to Expect
Arm is kept in a sling. Gentle pendulum exercises begin immediately to prevent stiffness. Pain well controlled with multimodal protocol.
Physical therapist guides passive range of motion exercises. No active lifting. Sling use continued per protocol.
Sling discontinued. Active range of motion and light strengthening initiated. Most patients regain functional use for daily activities.
Progressive resistance exercises. Most patients can return to golf, swimming, and light overhead activities. Continued improvement over 12 months.
Common Questions