Shoulder Replacement in Richmond, Virginia: Expert Care with Dr. Marion Herring
If you're suffering from chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion, you're not alone. At our clinic in Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Marion Herring frequently treats patients with two of the most common shoulder conditions: shoulder arthritis and irreparable rotator cuff tears. Both can severely affect your ability to stay active and enjoy daily life—but there are proven solutions.
Conservative Care Comes First
Before considering surgery, Dr. Herring always recommends starting with conservative treatment options. These include:
Physical therapy
Anti-inflammatory medications
Cortisone injections
Activity modifications
However, if these non-surgical treatments are no longer effective and the pain becomes severe or your function declines, shoulder replacement surgery may be the next step.
Two Main Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Depending on the condition of your shoulder, Dr. Marion Herring offers two types of shoulder replacement procedures in Richmond, VA:
1. Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement
This procedure is ideal for patients with advanced shoulder arthritis and a healthy rotator cuff. It involves replacing the worn-out joint surfaces with a metal ball and a new socket, restoring smoother movement and reducing pain. This approach preserves as much of your natural anatomy as possible—but it does require a fully functioning rotator cuff.
2. Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
If your rotator cuff is severely damaged or cannot be repaired, reverse shoulder replacement is often the best choice. In this procedure, the joint structure is reversed: the ball is placed on the shoulder blade and the socket on the upper arm. This design allows your deltoid muscle to take over the shoulder’s movement, making it a powerful solution for patients with rotator cuff tears and limited mobility.
Why Choose Dr. Marion Herring for Shoulder Replacement in Richmond?
With extensive experience and access to the latest implant technology, Dr. Herring provides highly personalized care tailored to your unique shoulder condition. His approach prioritizes preserving tissue when possible and improving long-term function with a smoother recovery process.