Total & Reverse Shoulder Replacement in the Lehigh Valley
When shoulder arthritis or a massive irreparable rotator cuff tear takes away your sleep, your reach, and your independence, shoulder replacement restores what conservative care no longer can. Dr. Michael Hendel, MD, PhD trained in shoulder arthroplasty during his residency and fellowship at Hospital for Special Surgery, the nation’s #1 orthopedic hospital.
Dr. Hendel is the first author of a randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery comparing patient-specific instrumentation with standard instruments for positioning the glenoid component. He has also published technique work on managing the challenging biconcave (B2) glenoid.
Which Replacement Is Right for You?
- Anatomic total shoulder replacement — for arthritis with an intact rotator cuff; resurfaces the ball and socket to restore natural mechanics
- Reverse total shoulder replacement — for cuff tear arthropathy and massive irreparable tears; the deltoid takes over so the arm works without a cuff
- Hemiarthroplasty and fracture arthroplasty — for complex proximal humerus fractures
- Revision shoulder replacement — for painful or failed prior implants
Recovery follows a structured path: a sling with protected motion for the first weeks, active motion by 6–12 weeks, strengthening after 3 months, and return to low-impact recreation — golf, swimming, gardening — as comfort allows.
“I had been putting off shoulder surgery for three years because I was scared. Dr. Hendel sat with me for over 30 minutes explaining the reverse arthroplasty and why it was right for my situation. I wish I had not waited so long.”
Press Ganey verified patient surveyFrequently Asked Questions
How do I know when it is time for shoulder replacement?
When X-rays show advanced arthritis and pain limits sleep and daily function despite injections, therapy, and medication, replacement becomes the reliable option. The decision is yours — Dr. Hendel presents the imaging, the options, and honest expectations, without pressure.
What is the difference between anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement?
Anatomic replacement recreates your normal ball-and-socket and depends on a working rotator cuff. Reverse replacement flips the geometry so your deltoid muscle powers the arm — the solution when the rotator cuff is beyond repair or arthritis and cuff failure occur together.
How long does a shoulder replacement last?
Modern implants show strong survivorship in published series, with the majority functioning well beyond 15 years. Implant choice, precise component positioning — a focus of Dr. Hendel's published research — and appropriate activity all contribute to longevity.