Choosing a doctor for any reason is never as simple as it sounds. You don’t really think about it until you suddenly need care. And in most cases, that makes sense. You wouldn’t think to find an eye doctor if you’ve had perfect vision your whole life. In the case of an orthopedic physician, you might only be referred if you have a musculoskeletal injury or illness, persistent or chronic joint pain, unresolved soft tissue injuries, need preventative screenings, or you need a specific type of evaluation. Patients with severe arthritis or damaged cartilage, for example, are prime candidates for joint replacements and a conversation with a skilled orthopedic surgeon can help determine what kind of outcome you might get from such a treatment.
However, not all orthopedists are highly trained in joint replacements. Because this common procedure can be done by an orthopedic surgeon who is simply comfortable performing it, you might end up with a “successful enough” total joint replacement and then move on to post-op treatment. But you could miss the opportunity for a superior experience and outcome. That’s why we’ve put together a guide on what to look for in your surgeon, how you should feel after your total joint procedure—such as a total shoulder replacement—and how to advocate for yourself throughout rehabilitation.
Dr. Roger Chams and his staff are not only one of the best orthopedic teams for total shoulder and other joint replacements in the Chicago area, but they are also renowned as pioneers in the field across the nation. That’s why Dr. Chams has received honors such as Top Tier MD, Chicago’s Top Doctor, has been selected to America’s Top Orthopedists, and so many more.
Starting Your Search: How to Locate the Right Chicago Surgeon for Total Shoulder Replacement
Whether you’re searching on Google, taking advice from your primary care physician, or asking friends, it’s wise to collect input from reliable sources. At the very least, you’ll feel like you’ve done your due diligence. After compiling a few potential names, the next step is to check each provider’s board certifications. Does he or she have experience with the specific procedure you’re seeking?
If you’re browsing orthopedic doctors, a great step would be to visit their personal website or online bio to read through what their interests and medical experiences entail. You might also want to take into account which hospital affiliations they have – an expert in his or her field will usually be found at the most cutting-edge hospitals or well-known clinics. For example, Dr. Chams sees patients in multiple locations and is associated with IBJI, which is the Chicago-based Illinois Bone and Joint Institute.
It’s also worth reading through the testimonials of other patients, including Google Reviews and those found elsewhere online.
Evaluating a Surgeon’s Experience & Expertise for Your Total Shoulder Replacement
Prioritize surgeons who regularly perform total shoulder replacements, as higher volumes often correlate with better outcomes. Subspecialty training or fellowships focused on shoulder and elbow surgery can be particularly advantageous. Hospital affiliations matter, too—top Chicago medical centers typically have advanced equipment and comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Investigate clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction ratings, and any research or clinical trials in which the surgeon participates to gauge their level of expertise.
Consultation & Communication with Your Chosen Doctor
After evaluating your options, select a provider and prepare for a consultation. This meeting helps ensure you’re comfortable with your choice and will also support you throughout recovery, as you’ll rely on your doctor to make the best decisions for your treatment.
Ask about the treatment steps you’ll undergo, including the process itself, expected recovery timeline, potential risks, pain management strategies, and necessary follow-up appointments. You could also inquire about physical therapy requirements and home preparation. Gather relevant medical records and follow any pre-op instructions—like lab tests or medication adjustments—to ensure a smooth surgery and optimal post-operative care.
Follow-Up: How Do They Handle Recovery?
One of the most important parts of a total shoulder replacement or any total joint replacement is the recovery phase. Healing is crucial, but did you know with the right rehab plan and monitoring, you could have an even better outcome? Recovery is essential after total shoulder replacement because it promotes healing, restores mobility, and builds supporting muscle strength. Guided exercises and rehabilitation prevent stiffness, reduce complications, and help the implant integrate properly. This approach ensures patients can resume daily activities and maintain long-term joint health.
When it comes to outcomes, your doctor plays a critical role in your post-surgery recovery by providing specialized knowledge, tailoring a rehabilitation plan to your needs, and monitoring progress for safe healing. He or she can recommend targeted exercises, adjust pain management strategies, and identify potential complications early, ensuring a smoother path to restored function.
Orthopedic Treatment in Illinois
As an established orthopedic surgeon and known for his textbook total joint replacement surgeries, Dr. Chams has a proven track record of helping his patients get back to doing what they love. With over 20 years of experience and multiple clinics throughout Illinois, Dr. Chams can help you achieve the best surgical outcome and recovery. For more information, please contact us online today or give us a call at: (847) 247-4000.
