Total Shoulder Replacement: When and How – Expert Insights from Dr. Chethan Nagaraj, Orthocare Bangalore
Shoulder pain can silently limit your daily life — from reaching overhead shelves to sleeping comfortably. Over time, damage to the shoulder joint can make even simple activities painful. For many, the best long-term solution is Total Shoulder Replacement (TSR). In this article, Dr. Chethan Nagaraj, one of the Best Orthopedic Doctors in Bangalore, explains when the procedure becomes necessary, how it’s performed, and why Orthocare Bangalore is trusted for advanced orthopedic and joint-replacement care.
Explore more about the clinic’s services at Orthocare Bangalore – Services or book your consultation via the Contact Page.
Understanding the Shoulder Joint
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the humeral head (ball) and the glenoid cavity (socket) of the scapula. Its wide range of motion depends on the harmony between bones, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons — particularly the rotator cuff.
When the cartilage that cushions these bones wears away due to arthritis, trauma, or degeneration, friction develops. This causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and restricted movement, often affecting both work and sleep. At this stage, conservative methods like physiotherapy or medications may not be enough — prompting evaluation for shoulder replacement surgery.
When is Total Shoulder Replacement Needed?
According to Dr. Chethan Nagaraj, total shoulder replacement is considered when shoulder pain and stiffness persist despite non-surgical management. The following are the most common medical indications:
- Osteoarthritis – the “wear-and-tear” arthritis that thins cartilage over time.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune disease that inflames and erodes joint surfaces.
- Post-traumatic arthritis – joint damage after fractures or dislocations.
- Avascular necrosis – loss of blood supply leading to collapse of the humeral head.
- Failed previous shoulder surgery or complex fractures that cannot heal normally.
Typical symptoms include constant pain (especially at night), reduced shoulder mobility, weakness, and difficulty performing routine tasks. Once these signs become severe, and imaging confirms extensive joint damage, Total Shoulder Replacement becomes the most effective option.
About Dr. Chethan Nagaraj
Dr. Chethan Nagaraj is among the Best Orthopedic Doctors in Bangalore and a trusted name in Joint and Hip Replacement Surgery. With over 15 years of orthopedic experience, he has treated thousands of patients suffering from arthritis, sports injuries, fractures, and degenerative bone conditions.
At Orthocare Bangalore, he leads the orthopedic and joint-replacement division, performing complex knee, hip, and shoulder surgeries with precision and care. His treatment philosophy combines evidence-based medical practice with compassion — ensuring that every patient receives personalized guidance and world-class orthopedic care.
Areas of Expertise:
- Total Shoulder Replacement (TSR)
- Total Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery
- Arthroscopy and Sports Injury Reconstruction
- Fracture Fixation and Joint Realignment
- Conservative Orthopedic Management and Rehabilitation
How is Total Shoulder Replacement Performed?
1. Pre-operative Evaluation
The process begins with a detailed clinical assessment, blood tests, and advanced imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI. This helps in planning implant size, assessing bone loss, and evaluating the rotator cuff muscles.
Patients are advised about pre-surgery precautions, fasting, medications, and home preparation for the recovery period.
2. The Surgery Step-by-Step
During the procedure, performed under anesthesia:
- The surgeon makes a small incision at the front of the shoulder.
- Damaged portions of bone and cartilage are carefully removed.
- A metal ball (replacing the humeral head) and a plastic socket (replacing the glenoid surface) are implanted to restore smooth motion.
- The rotator cuff and soft tissues are repaired, and the incision is closed.
The operation typically lasts one to two hours, depending on joint complexity and previous damage.
3. Post-surgical Recovery and Rehabilitation
After surgery, the arm is placed in a sling for a few weeks. Early rehabilitation starts with gentle passive movements to maintain flexibility, followed by active exercises after about 4–6 weeks. Most patients experience a significant reduction in pain and improvement in shoulder motion within 8–12 weeks.
At Orthocare Bangalore, every patient undergoes a customized rehabilitation plan designed by expert physiotherapists, ensuring a safe and steady return to normal life.
Benefits of Total Shoulder Replacement
- Pain Relief: Removes the arthritic surfaces causing constant pain.
- Restored Mobility: Improves arm movement and shoulder flexibility.
- Improved Strength: Enables normal lifting, reaching, and daily activity.
- Better Sleep and Posture: Night pain and discomfort are greatly reduced.
- Long-term Durability: Modern implants can last 15 years or more with proper care.
Risks and Complications (though rare)
While total shoulder replacement is generally safe, some potential risks include:
- Infection around the implant
- Nerve or blood-vessel injury
- Loosening or dislocation of the implant
- Rotator cuff weakness
- Fractures during or after surgery
At Orthocare Bangalore, meticulous surgical technique, infection-control measures, and continuous follow-up greatly reduce these risks and ensure optimal recovery.
Why Choose Orthocare Bangalore for Shoulder Replacement in Rajajinagar?
Patients looking for Best Shoulder Treatment Doctors in Rajajinagar, Bangalore prefer Orthocare Bangalore for its:
- Expert Surgeons – Led by Dr. Chethan Nagaraj, one of the Best Total Shoulder Replacement Surgeons in Rajajinagar.
- Advanced Diagnostics – Modern imaging and pre-operative planning ensure precision.
- Comprehensive Care – From evaluation to physiotherapy, all services under one roof.
- Patient-Centric Approach – Transparent communication and empathetic support.
- High Success Rates – Proven track record in joint and replacement surgeries.
The clinic’s emphasis on technology, sterile operating environments, and expert physiotherapy makes it a trusted destination for complete orthopedic care in Bangalore.
Recovery and Life After Shoulder Replacement
Patients usually resume light daily tasks in 4–6 weeks, while full recovery takes around 3–6 months. Commitment to physiotherapy is crucial — it ensures optimal movement, stability, and strength.
After complete healing, most individuals can drive, swim, and even participate in low-impact sports. Heavy weightlifting or high-impact activities, however, are best avoided to protect the new joint.
Dr. Chethan Nagaraj emphasizes lifestyle modifications such as:
- Maintaining healthy body weight
- Avoiding repetitive overhead movements
- Following prescribed shoulder-strengthening exercises
- Regular follow-ups for implant monitoring
Patient-Centric Care and Long-Term Support
At Orthocare Bangalore, patient care doesn’t end after surgery. Every patient receives:
- Continuous rehabilitation support
- Periodic X-ray check-ups to ensure implant stability
- Lifestyle counselling for joint protection
- Dedicated helpline for queries and appointments
The goal is not just to treat pain but to restore complete functionality and confidence.
When to Consult Dr. Chethan Nagaraj
You should schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder, hip, or knee pain that limits movement
- Stiffness despite rest or physiotherapy
- Recurrent joint swelling or grinding sensation
- Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm
Book your consultation through the Contact Page or visit Orthocare Bangalore, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, for expert diagnosis and personalized orthopedic care.
Conclusion
Total Shoulder Replacement is a proven solution for patients living with severe shoulder arthritis or joint degeneration. With the guidance of Dr. Chethan Nagaraj, a trusted name among the Best Orthopedic Doctors in Bangalore, you can regain motion, strength, and a pain-free lifestyle.
Whether it’s knee, hip, or shoulder pain, the expert team at Orthocare Bangalore offers comprehensive orthopedic solutions — from diagnosis to rehabilitation — ensuring long-term success and improved quality of life.
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