Shoulder Replacement Surgery
at OrthoEdge in El Paso
Expert Orthopedic Care with William Arroyo, MD
If shoulder pain is keeping you from enjoying daily life, there is hope for meaningful relief. William Arroyo, MD, is an experienced orthopedic surgeon practicing in El Paso who focuses on accurately diagnosing a wide range of shoulder conditions and recommending the best treatments for each patient. When nonoperative care is insufficient, Dr. Arroyo offers advanced shoulder replacement procedures tailored to the underlying problem and the patient’s activity goals.
His approach is patient-centered and practical: first identify the specific source of pain and loss of motion, then create a personalized treatment plan that may include targeted physical therapy, injections, or surgical solutions such as total, partial, or reverse shoulder replacement when indicated. Throughout the process, the priorities remain the same — reduce pain, restore functional range of motion, and support a safe, efficient recovery so you can return to work, sports, and the everyday activities you enjoy. Dr. Arroyo and his team emphasize clear communication, evidence-based techniques, and rehabilitation strategies that optimize outcomes and minimize downtime.
What is shoulder joint replacement?
Shoulder joint replacement, also called shoulder arthroplasty, is a procedure that replaces the damaged parts of the shoulder with smooth, durable implants. This helps the joint move more comfortably and reduces pain caused by arthritis, severe injury, or wear and tear.
Types of knee replacement include:
Anatomic (total) shoulder replacement: Typically used when the rotator cuff is functioning well and arthritis has worn down the joint surfaces.
Reverse shoulder replacement: Often chosen when the rotator cuff is torn or not repairable, or after complex fractures. The design “reverses” the ball-and-socket positions to let other muscles move the arm.
How to tell if you might need shoulder replacement.
You may be a candidate if you have:
Persistent Symptoms:
Daily shoulder pain that limits work, hobbies, or sleep
Grinding or catching sensations in the shoulder
Little or no relief from medications, injections, rest, or physical therapy
Weakness from an irreparable rotator cuff tear
A complex shoulder fracture
Stiffness and loss of motion that makes reaching, lifting, or getting dressed difficult
Common conditions that lead to shoulder replacement:
- Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
- Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the bone)
- Complex fractures that cannot be reliably repaired.
- Failed prior shoulder surgery
Benefits of surgery can include reliable pain relief, improved function, and a return to favorite activities like reaching overhead, dressing, driving, and light sports—often with a faster recovery than many patients expect.
Shoulder replacement care defined by clear communication, compassionate comfort, and measurable outcomes.
01
Diagnosis and planning
- Detailed conversation about your pain, goals, and activity level
- Hands-on exam to assess motion, strength, and stability
- Imaging as needed (X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI) to understand joint damage and rotator cuff health
- Personalized recommendation: nonsurgical treatments first when appropriate; surgery if it offers better long-term function
02
Nonsurgical options (when appropriate)
- Targeted physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
- Activity modification and home exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications or injections to calm inflammation
03
If surgery is the best option
- Clear explanation of the procedure (anatomic or reverse replacement) and why it fits your shoulder
- Pre-op preparation: optimizing health, reviewing medications, and planning for help at home
- Surgery day: performed in a sterile operating room with anesthesia and a dedicated orthopedic team
- Pain management plan designed to keep you comfortable while limiting side effects
- Early motion and a structured physical therapy plan to protect the repair and rebuild strength
04
Recovery and follow-up
- Step-by-step milestones so you know what to expect in the first days, weeks, and months
- Guidance on returning to driving, work, and hobbies
- Regular check-ins to track healing and answer questions
How William Arroyo, MD Can Help
Specialized Expertise:
- Shoulder-focused expertise in both anatomic and reverse replacement
- Straightforward, compassionate communication
- Convenient El Paso location and scheduling options
- Transparent guidance so you can make confident decisions
What to expect at your consultation
Tell us your story: when the pain started, what makes it worse or better, and your goals
Physical exam and review of prior imaging (bring any X-rays/MRIs if you have them)
A simple explanation of what’s going on in your shoulder
A clear plan: whether that’s continued conservative care or shoulder replacement, you’ll leave knowing next steps
Frequently asked questions and answers
What’s the difference between total and reverse shoulder replacement?
Total shoulder replacement is typically used when the rotator cuff is intact and arthritis is the main problem. Reverse shoulder replacement is often used when the rotator cuff is severely torn or not repairable, or after certain fractures, allowing other muscles to power the arm.
How long is recovery?
Everyone heals at a different pace. Most patients use a sling for a period, begin guided motion early, and build strength over time with physical therapy. Your timeline depends on your health, procedure type, and job or sport demands.
Will I still need physical therapy?
Yes. Therapy is a key part of recovery. It helps protect the joint, restore motion, and safely rebuild strength.
What are the risks?
All surgeries carry risks such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, stiffness, nerve injury, or implant-related issues. Careful planning and follow-up help reduce these risks. We review your specific risk profile before any procedure.
How long do implants last?
Modern implants are designed for durability. How long they last depends on your activity level, bone quality, and other factors. Regular check-ins help monitor implant health.
Am I too young or too old?
Candidacy is based on pain, function, joint damage, and overall health—not just age. We’ll evaluate your situation and discuss all options.
When to seek a shoulder specialist:
When to seek a shoulder specialist: If shoulder pain is waking you at night, limiting your work or workouts, or not improving with rest and medication, it’s time to talk with an orthopedic surgeon. Early evaluation can prevent further stiffness and help you recover faster.