Educational overview. Not medical advice.
Total Shoulder Replacement is a common orthopedic procedure aimed at relieving pain and restoring function to the shoulder joint. Chesapeake, VA, with a stable population of approximately 230,571, has a median age slightly above the U.S. average. Key drivers of orthopedic demand include an active lifestyle and a growing aging population.
Chesapeake Overview
Chesapeake is served by several healthcare facilities, including Sentara Healthcare and Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, which provide robust orthopedic services. While there are no major academic centers in the immediate area, residents often rely on nearby tertiary centers for specialized care.
Dominant commercial insurers in Chesapeake include Anthem and Aetna, with a significant portion of the population covered by Medicare. This is important for joint replacement procedures, as Medicare often covers these surgeries, facilitating access for seniors in the community.
Active Lifestyle: Many residents engage in sports, increasing shoulder injuries. Aging Population: An older demographic leads to higher prevalence of conditions like osteoarthritis. Rehabilitation Access: Local facilities offer comprehensive rehab services, enhancing recovery. Community Engagement: Residents prioritize health, driving demand for surgical options.
Total Shoulder Replacement involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. Variations include anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements, depending on the patient's specific condition and needs.
Patients typically consider Total Shoulder Replacement after exhausting non-surgical options such as physical therapy, medication, and injections like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), stem cells, and adipose allografts. These alternatives aim to relieve pain but may not provide the same level of improvement as surgery.
The procedure generally starts with an incision, followed by preparation of the joint surfaces. Surgeons then place the implant, balance soft tissues, and close the incision to ensure a stable and functional joint.
Recovery typically involves initial pain management and immobilization, followed by gradual motion exercises. Strengthening begins in the following weeks, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few months.
Patients often compare options based on experience with the procedure, facility logistics, and rehabilitation coordination. TopOrthoDocs serves as an educational platform for research, as evidence suggests that more experience can lead to safer surgeries and smoother recoveries.
No referrals or endorsements are provided.
Use of this site does not create a physician-patient relationship.
Find the best doctor for your procedure: https://www.toporthodocs.com