How Shoulder Replacement Surgery Helped a Father and Son Find Shoulder Pain Relief

Image of a Global Shoulder Collection patient enjoying life after shoulder replacement surgery.

In 1975, Tom was cutting down a tree when the tree fought back. The falling tree hit him and broke his shoulder. “Over the years, arthritis set in, and it became less mobile until the shoulder joint actually froze,” Tom said.

Eventually his shoulder pain became unbearable. “I had been taking shots for the pain and to help increase my mobility, but they were not working,” Tom said. “My left arm was useless — I had to lift it with my right arm to even move the arm.”

Tom, who had traveled widely as a high school principal with the Department of Defense Schools, is retired and lives in Kentucky after 40 years in education. Tom’s doctor had recommended he see Carl Basamania, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at Duke University in North Carolina, where Tom’s son was living.

“Dr. Basamania told me that my shoulder was the worst he had ever seen,” Tom said. Last year, Tom had shoulder joint replacement surgery. “I was surprised and pleased that the operation went so well,” said Tom. “I experienced very little pain.”

Since the surgery, Tom, now 64, has more range of motion. He hopes to start swimming soon. “My experience with the surgery, recovery and the implant has been great.”

Like father, like son.

Photo of an Air Force pilot returning to work after shoulder replacement surgery with the GLOBAL Shoulder Collection.

Tom’s positive experience encouraged his son Eric, who had similar shoulder problems because of an old wrestling injury, to have the same surgery.

At 32 and an active Air Force pilot, this surgery enabled Eric to continue his career. “Eric had his surgery in November and is already swimming 3,000 meters a day,” Tom said. “Eric will be the first A-10 jet pilot to have an artificial joint."

As with any medical treatment, individual results may vary. Only an orthopaedic surgeon can determine whether an orthopaedic implant is an appropriate course of treatment. There are potential risks, and recovery takes time. The performance of the new joint depends on weight, activity level, age and other factors. These need to be discussed with your doctor.

Last Updated: 09/11/2007