Educational overview. Not medical advice.
Total shoulder replacement is a significant orthopedic procedure that can help alleviate pain and restore function for patients in Santa Monica, CA. With a stable population of approximately 92,472, the area experiences a growing demand for orthopedic services driven by an active lifestyle and an aging demographic. The median age in Santa Monica is slightly younger than the national average, contributing to an increased prevalence of shoulder-related issues.
Santa Monica Overview
Santa Monica features several main hospitals and healthcare systems, providing a variety of orthopedic services. While there are no major academic centers in the immediate area, local surgeons often collaborate with nearby tertiary facilities for advanced care options.
Dominant commercial insurers in the region include Anthem and Aetna, with Medicare coverage being significant, reflecting national trends. Understanding insurance options is crucial for patients considering joint replacements, as coverage can influence access to necessary procedures.
Active Lifestyle Focus: Residents often engage in outdoor activities that can lead to shoulder injuries. High Rehab Density: The area boasts numerous rehabilitation facilities, facilitating post-surgery recovery. Climate Benefits: Mild weather encourages year-round activity, impacting joint health. Occupational Hazards: Many local jobs involve repetitive shoulder movements, increasing injury risk.
Total shoulder replacement involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. Common variations include anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Many patients 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 aim to alleviate pain and improve function but may not provide lasting relief.
The procedure typically begins with an incision to access the shoulder joint, followed by careful preparation of the joint surfaces. Surgeons then place the implant, ensuring proper alignment and soft tissue balancing before closing the incision.
Recovery generally involves several phases, starting with pain management and immobilization for the first few weeks. Gradual motion exercises follow, leading to strengthening activities over the coming months, allowing patients to return to their regular activities.
Patients often compare orthopedic surgeons based on their experience with the specific procedure, facility logistics, and rehabilitation coordination. TopOrthoDocs serves as an educational platform to aid in research, emphasizing that greater experience often correlates with safer surgeries and smoother recoveries.
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