Bombay Hospital, Vijay Nagar, Indore Mon–Sat: 10 AM – 6 PM • Emergency: +91 73545 48869
Center of Excellence • Shoulder

Shoulder Replacement in Indore — Pain-Free Reach, Restored

Quick answer: Shoulder replacement resurfaces a shoulder worn by arthritis or damaged by rotator-cuff failure with an artificial joint. Dr. Varun Chouhan performs total and reverse shoulder replacement at Bombay Hospital, Indore, relieving deep shoulder pain and restoring the ability to reach, lift and sleep comfortably.

Dr. Varun Chouhan, Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Bombay Hospital Indore
Dr. Varun ChouhanOrthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon • Bombay Hospital, Indore
Overview

What is shoulder replacement?

Shoulder replacement replaces the worn ball-and-socket of the shoulder with smooth implants. In a total (anatomic) replacement the natural shape is restored; in a reverse replacement the ball and socket are switched so the powerful deltoid muscle can lift the arm — the right choice when the rotator cuff is torn or worn out.

It is used for advanced shoulder arthritis, rotator-cuff arthropathy and certain complex fractures. Dr. Chouhan chooses the design that fits your cuff, bone and goals to give the most pain-free, functional shoulder.

Symptoms

When to seek an evaluation:

  • Deep shoulder pain, often worse at night
  • Pain and weakness lifting the arm or reaching overhead
  • Grinding or catching in the shoulder
  • Stiffness limiting dressing, grooming or reaching behind
  • Weakness from a large, long-standing rotator-cuff tear
  • Pain not relieved by physiotherapy or injections
Causes

Common causes:

  • Osteoarthritis of the shoulder
  • Rotator-cuff tear arthropathy — arthritis after cuff failure
  • Rheumatoid and inflammatory arthritis
  • Avascular necrosis of the humeral head
  • Complex or old fractures of the shoulder
  • Failed previous shoulder surgery
Benefits

What patients gain

Relief of deep pain

The arthritic joint surfaces are replaced.

Better sleep

Night-time shoulder pain resolves for most patients.

Restored reach

Reaching, dressing and overhead use become possible again.

Option when cuff is gone

Reverse replacement powers the arm via the deltoid.

Durable implants

Modern shoulder implants give lasting function.

Individualised design

Anatomic or reverse chosen to fit your shoulder.

Treatment Process

Your treatment, step by step

AssessmentExamination and imaging (X-ray, often CT/MRI) assess the joint and rotator cuff.
PlanningAnatomic vs reverse design and implant size are planned; fitness cleared.
SurgeryThe worn joint is replaced with the chosen implant design.
Protected early phaseThe arm is supported in a sling while healing begins.
RehabilitationA staged physiotherapy programme rebuilds motion and strength.
Recovery Timeline

How recovery typically progresses

Week 1–2Protected restArm supported in a sling; gentle movement as advised.
Week 3–6Motion returnsGuided range-of-motion exercises begin under physiotherapy.
Week 6–12StrengtheningProgressive strengthening; many daily tasks resume.
Month 3–6Full recoveryComfortable overhead reach and function for most patients.

Have your X-rays or MRI ready? Share them on WhatsApp for preliminary guidance before you visit.

Shoulder Replacement FAQ

Common questions, answered

What is the difference between total and reverse shoulder replacement?
A total (anatomic) replacement restores the natural shape and needs a working rotator cuff. A reverse replacement swaps the ball and socket so the deltoid muscle lifts the arm — the right choice when the cuff is torn or worn out.
Will I be able to reach overhead again?
Most patients regain comfortable overhead reach, especially after reverse replacement done for cuff-deficient shoulders, though final range varies by case.
How long is shoulder recovery?
Early healing takes a few weeks in a sling, with motion and strength building over 3–6 months.
Is the surgery very painful?
Modern anaesthesia and pain protocols keep discomfort well controlled, and the deep arthritic pain is usually relieved quickly.
How long does a shoulder implant last?
Modern shoulder implants commonly last 15–20 years with good function.
Is it covered by insurance?
Yes — medically indicated shoulder replacement is covered by most policies, with cashless facility available.

Don't let joint pain decide how you live.

Bring your X-rays or share them on WhatsApp — get a clear, honest opinion on the right treatment for you.

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