Understanding Pain
Diagnosis & Understanding
4. Neck Pain
1:55
6. Painful Diabetic Neuropathy
1:46
8. Foot Pain
1:50
9. Ankle and Foot Pain
1:46
10. Cancer Pain
1:34
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
2. Bracing
1:30
3. Acupuncture
2:13
4. Physical Therapy
1:35
5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
2:08
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
2. Regenerative Medicine
2:06
5. Caudal Epidural
1:33
10. Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
1:39
11. Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty
2:05
12. Basivertebral Nerve Ablation
1:36
13. MILD Procedure
2:04
14. Spinal Decompression Surgeries
1:41
15. Artificial Disc Replacement
1:52
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Shoulder Replacements- Why so many with chronic pain?
1746880193
Shoulder Replacements: Why Do So Many Patients Still Have Chronic Pain?
Shoulder replacement surgery is meant to relieve pain and restore movement, but up to 30% of patients continue to experience chronic pain after surgery.
One major cause is nerve irritation or damage. During surgery, small nerves around the shoulder may become stretched, compressed, or injured, leading to ongoing pain, numbness, or burning sensations. Scar tissue buildup can also trap nerves, making movement painful.
Another issue is implant-related problems. If the artificial joint doesn’t fit properly, becomes loose, or wears down over time, it can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain. Some patients may also have inflammation or sensitivity to the implant materials.
Muscle imbalances or joint stiffness can also contribute to pain, especially if the rotator cuff or surrounding muscles are weak or tight after surgery. Pre-existing conditions, such as arthritis in the neck or nerve compression, can continue to cause pain that may feel like it’s coming from the shoulder.
Certain factors increase the risk of chronic pain. Younger patients, women, and those with pre-existing nerve conditions or severe arthritis are more likely to experience persistent discomfort. Poor surgical outcomes, improper rehabilitation, or prior shoulder surgeries can also play a role.
If pain continues after surgery, options exist beyond medication. Nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and regenerative medicine can help manage symptoms. For more severe cases, spinal cord stimulation (SCS), or peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) may provide long-term relief. These treatments block pain signals before they reach the brain and are reversible and adjustable, making them safer alternatives to additional surgery.
Shoulder replacement can be life-changing, but it’s not a guaranteed fix for pain. If you’re considering surgery or struggling with pain after a shoulder replacement, exploring all treatment options and getting multiple opinions can help you find the best path to lasting relief.
FAQs
Are there certain factors that increase the risk of experiencing chronic pain after surgery?
Yes, certain factors increase the risk, including younger age, being female, pre-existing nerve conditions, and severe arthritis. Poor surgical outcomes, inadequate rehabilitation, and prior shoulder surgeries can also contribute to persistent pain.
Can pre-existing conditions affect the outcome of a shoulder replacement surgery?
Yes, pre-existing conditions such as arthritis in the neck or existing nerve compression can continue to cause pain after surgery. These conditions might give the sensation that the pain is originating from the shoulder, even if it is not directly related to the surgical area.
What are the common issues related to the shoulder implant that can cause discomfort?
Implant-related issues include improper fit, loosening, or wear over time. This can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain. Additionally, some patients experience inflammation or sensitivity to the materials used in the implant, contributing to discomfort.
What can be done if pain persists after shoulder replacement surgery?
If pain persists post-surgery, options beyond medication exist, such as nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and regenerative medicine. In more severe cases, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) or peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) can be considered. These treatments help manage symptoms by blocking pain signals before they reach the brain.
Why do some patients still experience chronic pain after shoulder replacement surgery?
Many patients continue to experience chronic pain due to factors such as nerve irritation or damage during surgery, scar tissue buildup, and implant-related problems like improper fit or loosening. Muscle imbalances, joint stiffness, and pre-existing conditions, such as neck arthritis, can also contribute to ongoing pain.