Shoulder Replacement Recovery: What to Expect

Getting shoulder replacement surgery can have its share of anxieties.

What is the recovery time for a shoulder replacement? How do you prepare for life after a shoulder replacement? In this post, we’ll examine what to expect after the surgery.

Download Our FREE Guide to Home Safety

What Are Types of Shoulder Replacement Procedures?

Before we get into the ins and outs of shoulder replacement recovery, let’s discuss the types of shoulder replacement procedures. These include:

• Partial shoulder replacement. In this approach, only the ball portion of the joint is replaced, and it is typically recommended when damage is limited to that area.
• Anatomic total shoulder replacement. With this option, both the ball and the socket are replaced using implants designed to replicate the joint’s natural shape.
• Reverse total shoulder replacement. In this technique, both parts of the joint are replaced but their positions are reversed, placing the ball on the shoulder blade and the socket on the upper arm, and it is often used when the rotator cuff is severely damaged.

Next up, let’s answer some deeper questions about recovery from shoulder replacement.

How Do You Prepare for Complete Shoulder Replacement Recovery?

Before scheduling surgery, you’ll meet with your surgeon for an evaluation that includes a review of your symptoms, a physical exam, and imaging such as X-rays or a CT scan. This visit is also a good time to ask about the recommended procedure, pain management, recovery expectations, physical therapy, activity restrictions, and whether you’ll need help at home. Other care team members will assess your readiness for surgery and review your medical history, medications, and tobacco use, which can affect healing.

What Happens During Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Before surgery, your care team will review your anesthesia plan with you. Most patients receive general anesthesia to remain asleep during the procedure, along with a nerve block to keep the shoulder numb and help manage pain afterward. The operation typically lasts between one and two hours.

But how long is recovery for shoulder replacement? We’ll review information about shoulder replacement surgery recovery and whether you can go home after shoulder replacement surgery.

Can You Go Home Right After Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

When it comes to full shoulder replacement recovery, many patients ask whether they can return home the same day after shoulder surgery. Thanks to advances in medical technology and surgical techniques, same-day discharge is now a realistic option of post op shoulder replacement for many. Eligibility depends on several factors, including overall health and the availability of reliable support at home, as patients must be able to follow post-operative instructions and begin physical therapy. This can be as soon as the next day.

The type of procedure also matters, as minimally invasive approaches like arthroscopic surgery typically allow for a quicker shoulder replacement recovery timeline and less pain, making outpatient treatment more feasible. Even procedures such as rotator cuff repairs, labrum repairs, and some shoulder replacements are often performed on a same-day basis, shortening shoulder replacement recovery time. While complications are uncommon, issues such as infection, excessive bleeding, or instability may require a longer hospital stay to ensure patient safety and proper monitoring during this longer recovery time for a shoulder replacement.

However, even if post shoulder replacement surgery can involve going home right away, it does not mean shoulder replacement surgery recovery is immediate. In the next section, we’ll review recovery time for shoulder replacement surgery.

How Long Is Shoulder Replacement Recovery?

Recovery for shoulder replacement can take several months. You will wear a sling for a few weeks during recovery after shoulder replacement and begin guided exercises soon after surgery to maintain mobility and build strength, followed by physical therapy to restore range of motion. Pain is common in the early weeks and is typically managed with a combination of prescribed medication and over-the-counter options as directed by your surgeon. While most people can resume light daily activities within two to three weeks, more strenuous activities should be avoided for a few months and only resumed with your surgeon’s approval.

To learn about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.