Shoulder Djd / Total Shoulder Replacement
What is Shoulder DJD / Total Shoulder Replacement?
Shoulder degenerative joint disease (DJD) occurs when cartilage wears away in the glenohumeral joint, causing pain and reduced mobility. In advanced cases, total shoulder replacement (TSR) may be recommended.
- Cartilage degeneration in the shoulder
- Severe pain and stiffness
Overview of the Condition
Shoulder DJD involves progressive cartilage loss. Total Shoulder Replacement is a surgical procedure where the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with prosthetic components.
Symptoms
- Chronic shoulder pain
- Loss of range of motion
- Crepitus or grinding sensations
Causes
Age-related cartilage wear, previous injuries, and certain inflammatory conditions can lead to degenerative changes in the shoulder joint.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on physical examination, X-rays showing joint space narrowing or osteophytes, and sometimes MRI or CT scans.
Treatment Options
- Physical therapy and medications
- Joint injections for pain relief
- Shoulder replacement for severe cases
Conservative Management
Early management includes anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, and physical therapy to maintain shoulder mobility and strength.
Rehabilitation Exercises
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises
- Rotator cuff and scapular stabilizing exercises
- Posture training to reduce joint stress
Surgical Options
In total shoulder replacement, the humeral head is replaced with a metal prosthesis and the glenoid may be resurfaced with a plastic component.
Anatomy Overview
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the humeral head and the glenoid fossa of the scapula. DJD occurs when the cartilage surfaces of these bones degrade.
Affected Areas
- Humeral head
- Glenoid surface
- Surrounding soft tissues
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is surgery always necessary? | Not always. Many patients improve with conservative measures, but severe DJD may require TSR. |
| How long is recovery after TSR? | Recovery varies, but most patients need several months of rehabilitation to regain function. |
Prevention Strategies
- Maintain healthy weight to reduce joint stress
- Avoid repetitive overhead motions
- Engage in regular shoulder strengthening exercises