In shoulder replacement surgery, damaged areas of bone are removed and replaced with pieces of metal and plastic. This surgery is called shoulder arthroplasty. The shoulder is a ball and socket joint. The round head (ball) of the humerus fits into a shallow socket in the shoulder. Damage to the joint can cause pain, weakness, and stiffness. Shoulder implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Replacement options include partial or complete replacement with anatomical or reverse implants.