Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Reverse shoulder replacement is a type of shoulder replacement in which the positions of the ball and socket are switched. This design lets the large deltoid muscle move the arm when the rotator cuff tendons are torn beyond repair. It is commonly used for arthritis combined with large rotator cuff tears, and for certain complex fractures.

What to expect

  • Performed under general anesthesia, often with a nerve block.
  • Surgery typically takes about one to two hours.
  • Many patients go home the same day or after a one-night stay.
  • A sling is typically worn for several weeks, with gradual physical therapy afterward.
  • Many daily activities resume within about three months; full recovery commonly takes six months to a year.

Top shoulder surgeons

All shoulder surgeons →

Common questions

Why would I need a reverse instead of a standard shoulder replacement?
A standard (anatomic) replacement depends on a healthy rotator cuff. When the cuff is badly torn or the joint has certain kinds of damage, the reverse design typically works better because it uses the deltoid muscle instead.
How long does recovery take?
Most people are out of the sling within about four to six weeks and back to light daily activities within two to three months. Improvement in strength and motion continues for up to a year.
What will my shoulder be able to do afterward?
Most patients gain meaningful pain relief and can raise the arm for daily tasks. Some motions, like reaching far behind the back, may stay limited, your surgeon can set realistic expectations for your case.

Find Reverse Shoulder Replacement by city

Reverse Shoulder Replacement in New York, NYReverse Shoulder Replacement in Los Angeles, CAReverse Shoulder Replacement in Houston, TXReverse Shoulder Replacement in Chicago, ILReverse Shoulder Replacement in Dallas, TXReverse Shoulder Replacement in Cincinnati, OHReverse Shoulder Replacement in Boston, MAReverse Shoulder Replacement in San Antonio, TXReverse Shoulder Replacement in Birmingham, ALReverse Shoulder Replacement in Austin, TXReverse Shoulder Replacement in Baltimore, MDReverse Shoulder Replacement in Tucson, AZReverse Shoulder Replacement in San Diego, CAReverse Shoulder Replacement in Seattle, WAReverse Shoulder Replacement in Atlanta, GAReverse Shoulder Replacement in Aurora, COReverse Shoulder Replacement in Raleigh, NCReverse Shoulder Replacement in Vail, COReverse Shoulder Replacement in Oklahoma City, OKReverse Shoulder Replacement in Phoenix, AZReverse Shoulder Replacement in Portland, ORReverse Shoulder Replacement in Sacramento, CAReverse Shoulder Replacement in Jacksonville, FLReverse Shoulder Replacement in Las Vegas, NV

This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified physician about your specific situation. Listings are not endorsements.