If arthritis or rotator cuff tears cripple your shoulder, replacement surgery offers renewed movement—and DPC ensures your journey is coordinated, affordable, and tailored to your recovery.
Shoulder replacement replaces damaged joints with prosthetics. Types include:
Total shoulder: Replaces ball and socket.
Reverse shoulder: For rotator cuff-deficient patients.
Hemiarthroplasty: Replaces only the humeral head.
Key facts:
Safety: 90–95% success rate; infection risk <1%.
Costs: DPC memberships (150–400 USD/month) cover pre-op consults and follow-ups, unlike traditional fees (15,000–30,000 USD/surgery).
Risks of delay: Muscle atrophy, chronic pain.
Direct Primary Care (DPC) elevates joint care through proactive coordination and patient-first focus.
Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Prep
Rapid diagnostics: Schedule X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans within 72 hours.
Prehab programs: Strengthen deltoids and scapular stabilizers for better recovery.
Medication management: Adjust blood thinners or DMARDs pre-op.
Transparent Pricing and Holistic Support
All-inclusive care: Membership covers surgeon coordination, hospital liaisons, and PT plans.
Cost savings: Save 25–50% on facility fees via self-pay DPC rates.
Mental health focus: Address depression linked to chronic pain.
Personalized Recovery and Long-Term Function
24/7 access: Manage post-op pain or incision concerns immediately.
Virtual PT: Guide passive/active exercises via telehealth in early recovery.
Preventive care: Recommend calcium/vitamin D to protect bone-prosthesis bonds.
Zero wait times: 90% of DPC patients schedule surgery within 2 weeks vs. 8+ weeks traditionally.
Continuity: One team manages pain meds, PT adherence, and lab work long-term.
No hidden fees: Transparent pricing (e.g., 18,000 USD all-inclusive for reverse replacement).
Case 1: Sarah, 68, with severe osteoarthritis
Sarah’s DPC team performed total shoulder replacement; she regained 160° abduction in 6 months.
Case 2: Tom, 55, with massive rotator cuff tear
Tom’s DPC provider chose reverse replacement, restoring overhead reach.
Q: How long until I can drive?
A: 6–8 weeks post-op; DPC coordinates rides during recovery.
Q: Will I need lifelong restrictions?
A: Avoid heavy lifting >10 lbs; DPC guides safe activity progression.
Q: Can the prosthesis loosen?
A: <5% risk at 10 years; DPC monitors via annual X-rays.
Q: What if I need revision surgery?
A: DPC coordinates with revision specialists for complex cases.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) emphasizes multidisciplinary prep. DPC delivers by:
Reducing complications: Prehab cuts dislocation rates by 25%.
Boosting adherence: 85% of DPC patients complete PT vs. 60% nationally.
Saving costs: Members save 5,000–15,000 USD through bundled pricing.
Shoulder replacement in DPC isn’t just about a new joint—it’s about partnering with a team invested in your active life. With DPC, bypass insurance delays, access top surgeons, and gain a recovery plan that adapts to your goals. From pre-op prep to pain-free motion, experience care that’s as dynamic as your shoulder.
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