Educational overview. Not medical advice.
Total shoulder replacement is a significant orthopedic procedure for individuals in Yuma, AZ, a stable community with a population of approximately 91,923. The median age in Yuma is slightly higher than the national average, contributing to an increasing demand for joint replacements driven by aging and active lifestyles.
Yuma Overview
Yuma is served by several hospitals, including Yuma Regional Medical Center, which provides a range of orthopedic services. While there are no major academic centers in Yuma, residents often rely on nearby tertiary centers for specialized care. This network ensures that patients have access to essential resources for total shoulder replacements.
In Yuma, dominant commercial insurers include Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna, with Medicare penetration higher than national averages. This is significant for joint replacement procedures, as coverage can influence patient access and financial planning. The presence of local VA services also supports veterans seeking orthopedic care.
Active Retirees: Many retirees engage in recreational activities that increase joint wear and tear.
Seasonal Population: The influx of seasonal residents contributes to higher demand for orthopedic services.
Climate Considerations: Warm weather encourages outdoor activities, leading to injuries.
Transportation Accessibility: Local transport options facilitate access to surgical care.
Total shoulder replacement involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. Variations include anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements, each suited for different conditions such as arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
Patients typically consider total shoulder replacement after exploring non-surgical options like physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and advanced treatments such as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies. These alternatives are often used to delay surgery until absolutely necessary.
The procedure generally involves making an incision, preparing the joint surfaces, placing the implant, balancing soft tissues, and closing the incision. Each step is crucial to ensure proper joint function post-surgery.
Recovery typically spans several weeks, beginning with pain management and immobilization. Gradual motion exercises follow, leading to strengthening routines and a return to normal activities, often within a few months.
Patients commonly compare orthopedic surgeons based on experience, logistical considerations, and rehabilitation coordination. TopOrthoDocs serves as an educational search platform, highlighting that more procedure experience often correlates with safer surgeries and smoother recoveries.
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