Shoulder Replacement Specialists
Expert Shoulder Replacement in Indiana
When there is arthritic damage in the shoulder or an irreparable rotator cuff tear, shoulder arthroplasty is an excellent option to restore pain-free range of motion, strength, and function in the shoulder.
Dr. Daniel Gerow is an experienced shoulder surgeon at Midwest Center for Joint Replacement. He performs both reverse and anatomic shoulder replacement surgery, which can be done in an outpatient setting.
Shoulder Replacement FAQ
What is a shoulder replacement?
Total shoulder replacement, or total shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged components (ball and socket) of your shoulder with artificial implants to improve pain and restore range of motion.
There are two types of shoulder replacement:
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Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement
The surgeon removes the ball and socket of your shoulder joint and replaces them with implants. This procedure works best for patients with a healthy rotator cuff and severe arthritis.
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Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
The surgeon switches the ball and socket positions, so an implant ball is attached where your socket was (shoulder blade) and an implant socket is attached to where the ball was (humerus). This procedure is typically necessary for patients with a torn or non-functioning rotator cuff, severe arthritis, or fractures.
Am I a good candidate for shoulder replacement?
If you have tried non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, steroid injections, and medications; or if you have an irreparable rotator cuff tear, you may be a candidate for shoulder replacement.
Ultimately, Dr. Gerow will determine if you are a candidate based on your x-rays, medical history, and pain levels.
How long is recovery from a shoulder replacement?
After shoulder replacement, you will be in a sling only as needed for comfort and will begin waist level exercises right away. You can use your arm right away to pick up light objects, such as a cup of coffee.
You will begin physical therapy after 6 weeks of healing. Some people can progress without needing formal therapy. Your preoperative function and strength is your best predictor of your postoperative function and strength.
Life After Shoulder Replacement
After a 2023 accident injured both shoulders, Norm Coulter struggled to enjoy retirement activities like dog-walking, hunting, fishing, and crafting custom crank bait lures. When months of physical therapy didn’t restore his shoulder function, he turned to Midwest Center for Joint Replacement, where he underwent a reverse total shoulder replacement with Dr. Gerow in December 2025. With a positive attitude, dedication to therapy, and the right care team, Norm’s recovery has been “fabulous.” Just two months after surgery, he’s back in his workshop making lures again and looking forward to returning to the outdoor activities he loves.
Ready to take the next step?
To find out if shoulder replacement is the best option for you, call 317-455-1064 to book an appointment with Dr. Gerow.
Follow the Patient Journey to Understand More About Our Process
Whether you’re dealing with arthritis, considering joint replacement for the first time, or in need of a complex revision surgery, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. We combine advanced surgical techniques with a deep commitment to reverence, innovation, compassion, and access to care, so your experience is as seamless as your recovery.
Should you need surgery, you can rest assured that you will receive world-class care, either at our specialized outpatient surgery center or at one of Indiana’s top orthopedic hospitals.