Reverse total shoulder replacement is an advanced procedure designed for patients whose shoulder pain and loss of function cannot be effectively treated with a traditional shoulder replacement. Unlike an anatomic shoulder replacement, a reverse shoulder replacement changes the position of the ball and socket, allowing the deltoid muscle to compensate for a damaged rotator cuff. This approach can restore stability, improve arm function, and significantly reduce pain for appropriately selected patients.
Dr. Brian Cohen is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who has performed more than 3,000 shoulder replacements throughout his career. He provides reverse total shoulder replacement in Columbus, OH, using advanced surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s anatomy, condition, and functional goals.
What Is a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement?
In a healthy shoulder, the ball at the top of the upper arm bone fits into the shoulder socket. During a reverse total shoulder replacement, these components are reversed:
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A metal ball is attached to the shoulder socket.
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A socket-shaped implant is attached to the upper arm bone.
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The new joint allows the deltoid muscle to lift the arm when the rotator cuff is no longer functioning properly.
Total shoulder replacement is recommended when conservative management fails, and a patient’s activities of daily living are significantly impacted. This can be the result of severe pain and loss of function. The goal of shoulder replacement is to improve your quality of life.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Reverse total shoulder replacement is typically recommended when nonsurgical treatments no longer provide adequate pain relief or shoulder function. Conservative treatment may include activity modification, medications, physical therapy, or injections.
Patients who may benefit from reverse shoulder replacement include those with:
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Irreparable rotator cuff tears
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Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
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Advanced shoulder arthritis with rotator cuff deficiency
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Certain complex shoulder fractures
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Persistent shoulder pain and significant loss of function
Dr. Cohen performs a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination and imaging studies, to determine whether reverse shoulder replacement is the most appropriate treatment option.
How the Procedure Is Performed
Reverse total shoulder replacement is performed under anesthesia through an incision at the front of the shoulder. During the procedure, Dr. Cohen removes the damaged portions of the joint before positioning the specialized implants.
Because implant positioning plays an important role in shoulder stability and long-term function, careful preoperative planning and precise surgical technique are essential. Once the implants are secured, the incision is closed and the shoulder is placed in a sling.
Recovery After Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Recovery occurs gradually over several months and includes a structured rehabilitation program. Most patients begin gentle motion soon after surgery before progressing to strengthening exercises under the guidance of a physical therapist.
During recovery, patients can generally expect to:
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Wear a sling for several weeks.
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Follow activity restrictions while the shoulder heals.
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Participate in physical therapy to restore mobility and strength.
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Gradually return to normal daily activities as recommended.
Recovery timelines vary depending on the patient’s overall health, the condition being treated, and adherence to the rehabilitation program.
The Benefits of Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
For appropriately selected patients, reverse shoulder replacement can provide meaningful improvements in both comfort and function.
Potential benefits include:
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Significant reduction in shoulder pain
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Improved ability to lift and use the arm
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Greater shoulder stability
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Improved quality of life and daily function
While every patient’s outcome is unique, many experience substantial improvement after completing rehabilitation.
Why Choose Dr. Brian Cohen?
Dr. Brian Cohen is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience treating complex shoulder conditions, including arthritis, rotator cuff injuries, fractures, and failed previous shoulder procedures. He completed medical school and orthopedic surgery residency training at Mount Sinai in New York City, followed by sports medicine fellowship training at Rush Medical School in Chicago.
Throughout his career, Dr. Cohen has performed more than 30,000 orthopedic surgical procedures, including more than 3,000 shoulder replacements. His experience includes reverse shoulder replacement, revision shoulder replacement, and other advanced reconstructive procedures. Dr. Cohen’s patient-first philosophy emphasizes careful evaluation, clear communication, and treatment tailored to each patient’s condition, anatomy, and goals.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement in Columbus, OH
If shoulder pain, weakness, and loss of function are limiting your daily activities, reverse total shoulder replacement may provide lasting relief when other treatments are no longer effective. Dr. Cohen can evaluate your shoulder and determine whether this procedure is appropriate for your condition.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
