Whether she was at the gym or spending time in the garden, Beth C. liked to keep moving. Retirement was a chance to do more of what she loved, and staying strong was a priority. She incorporated strength training three days a week while keeping up with cardio and enjoying the outdoors.
She didn’t want shoulder pain deciding what she could and couldn’t do. However, as the pain worsened, everyday tasks, favorite activities, and even getting a good night’s sleep became a struggle. After years of trying treatments that offered only temporary relief, she knew it was time for a new solution. A recommendation from a coach at her gym led her to Joanne Labriola, MD, a hand and upper extremity orthopedic surgeon at Duly Health and Care.
Finding the Right Path
“I want to be physically active for as long as I can,” Beth said. “I enjoy doing yoga and dabbling in all kinds of things, and it was just getting harder.”
Beth had tried physical therapy, laser therapy, and cortisone injections without lasting relief. Another specialist had previously recommended a reverse shoulder replacement, but she wanted to know if other options existed.
During her initial evaluation, Dr. Labriola found limited shoulder motion and tenderness, along with cracking and popping as she moved her shoulder. Her arthritis was advanced, with significant bone loss and bone spurs that further restricted movement. However, her rotator cuff was normal, and she still had good shoulder strength.
“That made her a good candidate for an anatomic shoulder replacement,” Dr. Labriola explained. “Our goal was to relieve her pain, improve her function, and help her get back to the activities she enjoys.”
An anatomic shoulder replacement is designed to preserve the shoulder’s natural structure and movement. The procedure replaces the damaged joint surfaces, while an augmented implant allows the surgeon to account for and address bone loss.
Find the treatment that fits you.
Joint, bone, or spine pain doesn’t have to mean jumping straight to surgery. Duly Orthopedics and Spine’s board-certified specialists offer a full range of options, from non-surgical care like physical therapy, injections, and bracing to advanced surgical procedures when you need them. Your care plan is built around your diagnosis, your goals, and the activities you want to get back to.
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Confidence in Her Care
“What impressed me about her was how professional, clear, and concise she was,” Beth said. “You can tell she knows what she’s talking about. Whenever I asked a question, she had an answer. She was very knowledgeable and on top of everything.”
She also appreciated learning that shoulder procedures are a major focus of Dr. Labriola’s practice. When she asked how many shoulder replacements she performed each year, Dr. Labriola told her approximately 250.
“That really impressed me,” Beth said. “She explained that shoulders are her specialty. She does other things, too, but shoulders are her focus.”
Prepared for What’s Next
Once she decided to move forward, Beth felt supported throughout. The care team provided clear instructions on preparation, expectations, and recovery.
Her surgery took place at Duly’s Westmont Surgery Center, and the experience was smoother than expected. After a morning procedure, she was home by early afternoon.
She began physical therapy just a few days later. Driven to stay active, Beth even returned to the gym in her sling, with Dr. Labriola’s approval, taking care not to use her surgical arm. Keeping up her routine prevented her from becoming sedentary during recovery.
“The first couple of weeks were a little rough, but then I slowly started to feel like I was getting my life back,” Beth said. “You get back to doing the things you enjoy without the pain. It’s pretty amazing.”
Physical therapy that keeps you moving
Whether you’re recovering from surgery or looking to ease pain without it, Duly physical therapists create a plan tailored to your body and your goals. They work with your orthopedic provider to keep your rehabilitation on track, helping you rebuild strength, restore motion, and get back to what you love.
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A Recovery That Exceeded Expectations
Beth continued making steady progress. By her three-month follow-up appointment, she had already met the goals originally set for six months. She was surprised and excited to hear she didn’t need another appointment until her one-year checkup.
Today, Beth has nearly full range of motion and continues working to rebuild strength in her shoulder. More importantly, the pain that once affected her day and kept her awake at night is gone.
“I can lie on that shoulder. I can sleep. I can garden. I can do all those fun things again,” she said. “There’s no grinding, and everything feels great.”
For Dr. Labriola, seeing Beth thrive is the ultimate goal.
“I’m so happy she’s back to the activities she loves,” Dr. Labriola said. “The surgery is one part of that success, but Beth put a lot of work into her rehabilitation. It’s great to see her efforts paying off.”
Getting Back to What Matters
For Beth, shoulder replacement wasn’t just about relieving pain. It was about getting back to the activities, independence, and everyday moments that make life enjoyable. Her experience has also shaped how she talks about orthopedic care with others. If she hears someone struggling with shoulder pain or considering surgery, she’s quick to share Dr. Labriola’s name.
Her advice for anyone hesitating to seek treatment is simple. “If you’re in pain and losing sleep, don’t waste time,” she said. “There are ways to feel better. I know everyone’s situation is different, but there is hope.”
Don’t wait to feel better.
If pain is keeping you from the gym, the garden, or a good night’s sleep, Duly Orthopedics and Spine offers same-day and next-day consults so that you can get answers sooner. Talk with your Duly provider, schedule online, or give us a call to see a board-certified specialist.
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