Reverse Shoulder Replacement Rehabilitation:
Igal's Three-Year Recovery
Story
The Problem
Igal suffered a substantial shoulder injury in a snowboarding accident in Italy over three years ago, ultimately requiring three separate operations to reach a stable outcome. His first surgery, which repaired his humerus with a metal plate and screws, later failed as the head of his humerus began to collapse, and his second operation - a shoulder replacement - also failed several months later. At his lowest point, Igal described feeling "quite hopeless" and wondering "whether I was beyond what medical science could do."
Why He Chose One Body LDN
Igal specifically needed a physiotherapist skilled in complex post-operative recovery, and was referred to One Body LDN by the secretary of the surgeon who performed his second operation, who provided a shortlist of physiotherapists and recommended the clinic. Proximity to home and specialist post-operative experience were his key deciding factors. As Igal put it: "I also feel safe here. My injury is quite complex, so l am not looking for just anyone to have a go at treating it."
The Assessment & Diagnosis
Our specialist physiotherapist, Rebecca Bossick, identified that Igal's shoulder replacement had failed before this was recognised by either Igal or his surgeon, a finding that proved critical to his eventual referral to a renowned shoulder specialist for corrective treatment. This early detection - made through close, ongoing assessment rather than relying solely on the surgeon's post-operative sign-off - was pivotal in lgal receiving the further treatment he needed.
The Treatment Plan
- Post-operative physiotherapy following multiple shoulder surgeries, • including a reverse shoulder replacement
- Ongoing clinical monitoring to detect complications, including identifying a failed shoulder replacement ahead of standard diagnosis
- Referral coordination with a specialist shoulder surgeon when further corrective surgery was required
- Progressive, challenging strength and mobility sessions designed to push recovery just beyond gal's comfort zone
- Long-term rehabilitation support across three years and multiple surgical setbacks
The Result
After his second operation failed, Igal could barely manage more than uncomfortable sleep and short walks. Today, he has returned to spinning, swimming, skateboarding, and strength classes – activities he feared he might never do again. In his words:
"It feels good to feel normal again," and reflecting on his physiotherapist's early detection of his failed replacement: "That experience showed me how valuable it is to have someone who is genuinely focused on your recovery."
Watch Igal's Story
Read Igal's full testimonial transcript
I had a reverse shoulder replacement after a snowboarding accident in Italy just over three years ago. It was a substantial shoulder injury, and I have now had three operations. It took several procedures to reach the stable position I am in today.
It has been a difficult three-year journey and has felt like a major pause in my life.
During the first operation, my humerus had to be repaired. The broken pieces were held together with a metal plate and screws, and my shoulder was reconstructed. Unfortunately, something did not work.
Over the following months, the head of my humerus began to collapse. I was having physiotherapy at the time, and my physiotherapist advised me to have further scans. These showed what was happening inside my shoulder.
My recovery was not progressing as expected, so I sought further treatment and saw a surgeon in Harley Street who recommended a shoulder replacement.
I then had my second operation, but the replacement failed several months later. By that point, I was already under your care.
After it failed, you helped refer me to a renowned shoulder specialist who did everything possible to medically correct the situation and give me the shoulder I have now.
At the time, the situation really affected me. I felt quite hopeless and began to wonder whether I was beyond what medical science could do. I am extremely grateful to be where I am today.
I originally found One Body LDN because the clinics were close to where I lived, and I was looking for someone who specialised in post-operative physiotherapy. I needed somebody with the skills relevant to my particular situation.
I heard about the clinic through the secretary of the surgeon who performed my second operation. She gave me a list of physiotherapists and recommended One Body LDN.
The first thing I like about coming here is the outcome. I feel that I am now on a good trajectory, and I like the way I am challenged during the sessions.
Whenever I come in, it feels like a really good workout that takes me just outside my comfort zone. It is helpful to have that drive pushing me in the right direction.
Here it is divided into clear, readable paragraphs:
I also feel safe here. My injury is quite complex, so I am not looking for just anyone to have a go at treating it. I know I am being well looked after, and the results have been particularly important.
I am now back to exercising and doing some of the things I thought I might never be able to do again.
When my second operation failed, I could barely do anything. I could sleep, although not comfortably, and go for a walk. That was about the most I could manage.
Now I am back to spinning, swimming, doing some skateboarding and attending strength classes. I particularly enjoy exercising alongside people who have not been through all the injuries I have experienced. It feels good to feel normal again.
After my second operation, I was under your care while also receiving post-operative guidance from my surgeon. I made the mistake of assuming the surgeon knew everything and that I should follow his advice without question.
You noticed that my shoulder had failed before either I or the surgeon recognised it. For a while, I continued repeating the surgeon’s opinion that the shoulder was fine. Eventually, I realised you had been right.
That experience showed me how valuable it is to have someone who is genuinely focused on your recovery and is there to help.
Related Treatment
If you're recovering from shoulder surgery, a shoulder replacement, or a complex post-operative injury like Igal was, our specialist team can provide the close, expert monitoring that complex cases require. Learn more about our shoulder pain and post-surgical rehabilitation in London.