New research published in a recent issue of the World Journal of Orthopaedics found that 96.4% of recreational athletes (ages 55 and younger) were able to return to at least one sport within seven months following shoulder replacement surgery who fear they’ll never return to the sports they love.
New research published in a recent issue of the World Journal of Orthopaedics found that 96.4% of recreational athletes (ages 55 and younger) were able to return to at least one sport within seven months following shoulder replacement surgery, or arthroplasty.
Shoulder replacement is needed when the ball and joint socket are worn down due to repetitive motions of playing the same sport over and over, or wear and tear caused by a condition such as osteoarthritis.
The damaged joint is removed and replaced by prosthetic parts, mainly a metal ball attached to a plastic socket.
The average age of patients participating in the study was 48 years old, with 80% of them needing surgery due to the effects of osteoarthritis.
The sports participants were most eager to return to following their joint replacement were golf, tennis, swimming, basketball, flag football, and fitness/exercise.
Before jumping back into your favorite activity, experts say you need proper rehabilitation and therapy, plus a doctors’ approval.
All results from the study indicate that shoulder replacement surgery is a very good option for those wanting to continue an active life in sports, especially those younger than 55.
The U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reports that approximately 53,000 people in the U.S. have shoulder replacement each year.
If you would like to discuss shoulder, or other joint replacement surgery, with one of our specialists, please contact us.
(Courtesy of the AAOS American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons)
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