Does anyone have experience with a Reverse shoulder replacement?

Well, I’ve already filled my oxycodone script and my ice machine is ready. Thanks for the good wishes.

I was prepared with an ice machine. Ice packs, and oxy as well. Better to have and not need.

Are you or anyone else having problems with your ulnar nerve? I tripped in July 2022 and fractured my humeral neck. The orthopedic surgeon could not repair the fracture and did a reverse shoulder surgery. The surgeon told me in advance that my range of motion would not be the same as before, but better than if I did not have the surgery. My range of motion does allow me to wash and blow dry my hair and reach up to get something out of a cabinet, etc. I can't reach my back or lift my arm straight up. I don't recall any serious pain after the surgery. My problem is progressing numbness, tingling and cramping in my hand caused by the ulnar nerve ( I was initially told that this would resolve itself over time). I recently had an appointment with a neurologist who ordered another ncv and emg. The findings indicated on-going denervation to the ulnar nerve distribution. The neurologist has ordered an mri, which is scheduled for later this month. I also got a referral for more occupational therapy on my hand. Thankfully, I do not have any pain.

I am nervous about this one because they switching parts around. It is a little unnerving.

Had my RTS 2019
Motorized cryocuff machine for pain management, an awesome ice machine,
Rebound wear shirts have oodles zippers easy access for therapists, Velcro tops and pjs or night shirts
Carry pillows in car for arm you will feel every bump
Constipation can be huge issue with narcotics so stool softener, etc I found narcotics didn’t really help pain only took one at night for about 4 or 5 days
Finding a great therapist prior to surgery is a must just as important as a great surgeon. Preferably a place that you have a DPT (who has dry needling credentials if needed much later )where you will have the same therapist every visit.
You will need help as I was not allowed to use arm at all to lift anything for 2 weeks. Even after took a while
Lots pillows
Recliner for sleeping
Dry shampoo as I was not allowed to shower for a week, was miserable!
Eventually get set of theraband pulleys for home but wait til therapist has you doing it. As long as surgeon has done their part tell therapist any issues you are having they know when to send you back to the surgeon, if need be
It’s not a sprint but a marathon
Positive attitude goes a long way, it’s a long recovery
My therapist gave me a lifetime exercise regimen for my shoulder which I still do today! Eventually a heating pad can come into play but not for a long time.
Lot of work on our part but we’ll worth it!
For some reason I had a lot of nausea and vomiting for a while post op so I carried my anti nausea meds with me, but haven’t heard that happening to anyone else.
you can watch utube video of an actual total shoulder replacement surgery
I still get dry needling done and went to specialist for shoulders in 2024 as my arm was locking up in pain. He said that I have a rare side effect called conjoint tendonitis so he gave me an injection and am not locking up anymore. Still go to my therapist and get dry needling done and he is working on getting my deltoid stronger and they are currently doing surgery to release conjoint tendonitis but is experimental stages still but I still would have done the surgery not suppose to lift more than 5 lbs ever I am trying to adapt to new way of life

helen48,
This is Helen also! I tripped about18 months ago and sustained 3 fractures in my shoulder which led to the same surgical repair as you. Afterwards,my thumb,index finger and middle fingers were numbing. When I had an emg to determine whether there was nerve damage that was preventing my deltoids from working,it showed carpal tunnel. The feeling is gradually coming back in my fingers but my wrist does not have complete range of motion. I don’t know how this could be related to the surgery. My outcome is not as good as yours,the deltoids are weak,but I am managing. Good luck managing your nerve problem.

I had a TRSR done about 1 year ago. I had a nerve block that lasted about 24 hours. I did have post op pain after that but it was manageable. I’m very pleased with the results. I have some limitation with backward movement but it’s minimal. I’d say that being very diligent with PT is extremely important. Good Luck!

Thanks for replying and I'm glad the rTSR worked for you. What was your recovery like? How long after surgery would you feel comfortable, say, taking a vacation?

Thanks! Joe

To djfrostj;
Please try everything else first.
I was faced with this decision a few months ago due to rotator cuff tear/arthritis in my left shoulder and refused. The idea of putting a joint in backwards made no sense to me. They’ll tell you it’s more stable, etc but I don’t buy in. To me, there must be some reason why we weren’t created/evolved that way. Also, as an active person who likes to weightlift, I would not be able to deal with the lifetime restrictions imposed by this surgery.
Also, the dr recommended the surgery before PT. He didn’t even want to attempt tendon repair. Only when I refused did he order PT, which has helped a lot. I have improved rom, and my strength is starting to come back in the gym. It’s a long process and important to be consistent with the PT exercises.
I will get a second opinion if I don’t continue to improve.
I understand pain can really wear you down, and I’ve only been dealing with this about six months. Possible alternatives-opioids, cannabis, acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine?
Try PT, stem cells, prp, anything.
I wish you the best.
PS: cortisone shots can have nasty side effects: softening bone, some research that they can deteriorate tendons.

I had left RTS done on February 26, 2025. I just started physical therapy. I use the ice machine constantly and I had no pain or no problems except a reaction from rhe tape that did the closure but I would do it all again and I’m going to have my right side done. I was nervous also when they explained what they were going to do but it turned out perfect just make sure you keep it iced And don’t do too much to start off with just the slight exercises they tell you to do and don’t overextend then when you’re ready for your PT, you’ll be fine. Good luck.