If nonsurgical treatments do not work, there are surgeries available. As with any surgery, there are certain risks and potential complications, including infection or problems with anesthesia. Surgical treatments include:
- Shoulder joint replacement (total shoulder arthroplasty): Replacing the whole shoulder with an artificial joint
- Replacement of the head of the humerus, or upper arm bone (hemiarthroplasty).
- Removal of a small piece of the end of the collarbone (resection arthroplasty).