Choosing the best doctor for shoulder arthritis in New York and Brooklyn

Choosing the best doctor for shoulder arthritis in New York and Brooklyn is an important decision. Dr. Cagle is a top-rated shoulder surgeon specialist who has expertise treating shoulder arthritis and performing total shoulder replacement (total shoulder arthroplasty) and reverse total shoulder replacement (reverse total shoulder arthroplasty). He has experience with the most cutting-edge techniques and technologies, and he drives medical research that improves patients’ safety and recovery time. Dr. Cagle’s goal after a shoulder replacement is to help a person heal as quickly as possible to allow them to get back to their life and career.

WHAT IS SHOULDER ARTHRITIS?

Shoulder arthritis (Glenohumeral Arthritis) occurs when the cartilage covering the ends of the bone in the shoulder joint wear away. This loss of cartilage can occur due to use, injury, illness or infection. Once the cartilage is lost or damaged the joint becomes rough and painful.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE SHOULDER ARTHRITIS?

Individuals with shoulder arthritis typically experience significant continual pain that is worse on some days and better on others. The pain is often the worst when the shoulder is being used and improves with rest. Often times the pain progressively grows to the point where it is significant at home, at work and at night.

HOW IS SHOULDER ARTHRITIS DIAGNOSED?

Shoulder arthritis is diagnosed by a combination of symptoms, a physical exam, X-rays and often times a CT or MRI scan.

HOW IS SHOULDER ARTHRITIS TREATED?

Appropriate treatment of shoulder arthritis is critical to improve function and alleviate pain. In many cases, early shoulder arthritis can be treated without surgery. Some individuals may take anti-inflammatory medications, pursue a course of physical therapy and/or undergo an anti-inflammatory injection. When surgery is necessary, a Total Shoulder Replacement or a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement may be offered. A Shoulder Replacement can provide significant improvement in pain and function, but picking your doctor is a big decision to make. Each person should feel comfortable they are seeing a true shoulder specialist.

HOW IS A TOTAL SHOULDER REPLACEMENT (ARTHROPLASTY) PERFORMED?

A total shoulder replacement removes the rough painful arthritic ends of the shoulder joint and replaces the rough ends with a shoulder joint made of a combination of cutting-edge metal and plastic components. A shoulder replacement is an open procedure, and this means Dr. Cagle will use an incision that is made as small as possible. Following the procedure, many people stay in the hospital for 1 or 2 nights, but some individuals choose to go home immediately after surgery. Modern techniques in post-operative pain control have helped to make this possible.

HOW IS A REVERSE SHOULDER REPLACEMENT (ARTHROPLASTY) PERFORMED?

A reverse shoulder replacement is for patients with shoulder arthritis and a rotator cuff tear. The procedure is called a reverse replacement because it exchanges the side of the joint that the ball and socket is on. This has been an incredible advancement in shoulder replacement. Similar to a total shoulder replacement, the rough painful arthritic ends of the shoulder joint are removed, and the joint is replaced with a combination of cutting-edge metal and plastic components. A reverse shoulder replacement is an open procedure, and as such Dr. Cagle will use an incision that is made as small as possible. Following the procedure, many people stay in the hospital for 1 or 2 nights, but some individuals choose to go home immediately after surgery. Modern techniques in post-operative pain control have helped to make this possible.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECOVER AFTER A SHOULDER REPLACEMENT?

Recovery after a total shoulder replacement or a reverse shoulder replacement occurs is stages. Dr. Cagle personalizes the recovery program to each individual’s situation. A sling is typically worn after surgery for a period of 4-6 weeks to protect the replacement. After surgery each person progresses through a focused course of physical therapy to help them quickly regain their shoulder function and strength.

TOTAL SHOULDER ARTHROPLASTY POSTOPERATIVE PROTOCOL