Total Shoulder Arthroscopy and Reverse Total Arthroscopy

Since the development of the Neer prosthesis in the 1950s, shoulder arthroplasty has advanced considerably. The total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) can significantly improve function in patients with shoulder osteoarthritis (OA). But a patient may still have difficulty performing activities of daily living (ADLs). More patients are becoming candidates for TSA. There has been an increase in the number of these procedures similar to the increase in other total joint arthroplasties. The reverse TSA (rTSA) is also used in cases where the traditional TSA cannot be utilized. It is important to understand the surgical procedures for the TSA and rTSA as well as understand the rehabilitation protocols. It is also important for physical therapists to understand complications that may occur following these types of surgical procedures.