Educational overview. Not medical advice.
Total shoulder replacement surgery is a significant orthopedic procedure sought in Tacoma, WA, a population center of approximately 203,446 residents. With a median age above the U.S. average, the demand for orthopedic services is driven by an active lifestyle and an aging population, increasing the need for joint replacements.
Tacoma Overview
Several hospitals and health systems in Tacoma provide orthopedic services, relying on nearby centers for specialized care. Local facilities are well-equipped for a range of orthopedic procedures, ensuring residents have access to necessary surgical options.
Major insurers in Tacoma include Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna, with Medicare coverage more prevalent than the national average. This influences patient access to surgeries, with the VA also providing care for veterans in the community.
Active Outdoor Lifestyle: Residents enjoy outdoor activities that can lead to shoulder injuries.
Aging Population: More older adults are seeking joint replacements.
Work-Related Injuries: Many local jobs involve physical labor, contributing to shoulder wear and tear.
Rehabilitation Resources: Tacoma has a strong network of rehabilitation facilities for post-surgery recovery.
Total shoulder replacement replaces damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. Variations include anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements, suited for conditions like arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
Patients usually consider total shoulder replacement after non-surgical options like physical therapy and corticosteroid injections. Other methods include Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies. Surgery may be necessary when these fail to provide relief.
The procedure starts with an incision, followed by joint surface preparation. The orthopedic surgeon places the implant, ensuring proper alignment before closing the incision to restore function and alleviate pain.
Recovery involves initial pain management and immobilization, followed by gradual motion exercises and strengthening activities. Many patients see significant improvement within a few months.
Patients compare orthopedic surgeons based on experience, facility logistics, and rehabilitation coordination. TopOrthoDocs serves as an educational platform for research, emphasizing that more experience often correlates with safer surgeries.
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