Patient Success Story: Kirby Murphy

How a Pro Softball Player Got Back in Full Swing with Total Shoulder Replacement

When Kirby Murphy, a professional slow-pitch softball player, met with Dr. Nathan Howlett, sports medicine and shoulder surgeon at Ortho Rhode Island, he had been struggling with shoulder pain for over two decades.

Over the years, Kirby had undergone multiple surgeries on his right shoulder, the first in 2000 to repair a torn labrum. Despite the procedures, Kirby continued to play and work through chronic pain that impacted not only his swing but also day-to-day tasks. He was receiving cortisone injections every 8 to 12 weeks, but their relief was short-lived. As his symptoms became more debilitating, Kirby was referred to Dr. Howlett in September 2024.

Kirby was immediately impressed by Dr. Howlett’s candid and confident approach. “I had big goals — I wanted to get back to high-level softball as fast as possible,” Kirby said. “Dr. Howlett understood that.”

Within days of his appointment, Kirby underwent an MRI to evaluate his rotator cuff and biceps tendon. Based on his assessment and the imaging, Dr. Howlett recommended a total shoulder replacement.

Kirby chose to move forward. In December 2024, Dr. Howlett performed the surgery at the Center for Advanced Orthopedic Surgery, a collaborative facility between Ortho Rhode Island and South County Health. Kirby received a cutting-edge humeral head implant made from pyrocarbon—a bone-friendly material engineered to reduce wear on the shoulder socket.

The procedure went smoothly, and Kirby soon began physical therapy to support his rehabilitation.

Kirby worked diligently in rehab to restore his range of motion and strength. Within a few months, he was back on the field — and back to doing what he loved.

“Every day, every week, my shoulder feels better and better, and I'm getting more movement,” Kirby said. “I went from the operating table to hitting [the ball] 400 feet, and I was like, wow.”

Kirby credits not just the surgery but also the relationship he built with Dr. Howlett. “He wasn’t just a great surgeon — he really took the time to understand me and what I wanted to get back to.”

“Every patient is unique,” said Dr. Howlett. “It’s always my priority to work with each individual to develop a care plan tailored to the kind of life they want to live.”

“I want to play till they drag me off the field. I feel good now.”

Today, Kirby is back to crushing softballs and feeling strong. After more than 40 years on the diamond, he’s not ready to quit anytime soon.

“I've been playing softball for over 40 years,” Kirby said. “I want to play till I can't play, till they drag me off the field, because it does a lot of good for me… I feel good now.”

Learn more about shoulder care with Dr. Howlett.