Educational overview. Not medical advice.
Total shoulder replacement is a significant orthopedic procedure aimed at alleviating pain and restoring function in patients with severe shoulder joint issues. Mount Pleasant, SC, with a stable population of approximately 74,885 and a median age slightly above the national average, has seen a growing demand for orthopedic services driven by an active lifestyle and an aging population.
Mount Pleasant Overview
Mount Pleasant is home to several healthcare facilities, including East Cooper Medical Center and Roper St. Francis Healthcare. While there are no major academic centers directly in the area, many patients rely on nearby tertiary centers for advanced orthopedic care.
In Mount Pleasant, dominant commercial insurers include Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare. Medicare penetration is consistent with national averages, which is important as it affects eligibility for joint replacements. The presence of the VA may also play a role for some local veterans seeking care.
Active Lifestyle: Many residents engage in outdoor activities that increase shoulder wear and tear. Aging Population: The growing number of seniors contributes to higher demand for joint replacements. Sports Injuries: Local sports culture leads to shoulder injuries requiring surgical intervention. Rehabilitation Facilities: A robust network of rehab centers supports post-surgery recovery.
Total shoulder replacement involves replacing damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components. Common variations include anatomic and reverse shoulder arthroplasty, each suited for specific conditions such as arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
Patients typically consider total shoulder replacement after exploring non-surgical options like physical therapy, medications, and injections such as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), stem cells, and adipose allografts. These alternatives can provide temporary relief but may not address severe joint damage.
The procedure begins with an incision to access the shoulder joint. Surgeons prepare the joint by removing damaged bone and cartilage, then place the implant, ensuring proper soft tissue balance before closing the incision.
Recovery typically involves several phases: initial pain management and immobilization, followed by gradual motion exercises, strengthening, and a return to normal activities over weeks to months.
Patients often compare options based on experience with the procedure, facility logistics, and rehabilitation coordination. TopOrthoDocs serves as an educational search platform, as evidence suggests that more procedure experience often leads to safer surgeries and smoother recoveries.
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