Regaining strength, mobility, and confidence—that’s the goal after shoulder replacement surgery. But the road to recovery requires commitment, patience, and the right guidance. Understanding what to expect in the coming weeks and months after surgery can help you stay focused and motivated. Here’s a week-by-week breakdown to help you through the healing process.
Week 1: Rest, Ice, and Gentle Movement
The first week is focused on healing and protecting the surgical site. You’ll likely wear a sling to support your shoulder and take medication as prescribed to manage discomfort. Ice therapy helps reduce swelling, and your care team may start you on passive range-of-motion exercises. Avoid lifting or active use of the arm—recovery is just beginning.
Weeks 2–3: Begin Physical Therapy
With a decrease in swelling, you’ll begin working with a physical therapist. The focus remains on gentle, controlled movements to improve flexibility and prevent stiffness. The sling may still be needed part-time, particularly during sleep. You’ll likely start to regain small movements that make everyday tasks easier, but activity should remain limited.
Weeks 4–6: Building Confidence and Mobility
Most patients experience increased comfort and range of motion by this point. Your therapist will introduce more active exercises, and you may begin to feel more independent in daily tasks like grooming, dressing, or light chores. Though you’ll still need to avoid heavy lifting or overhead motion, steady progress is the goal.
Weeks 7–12: Functional Strength Returns
By now, many patients are cleared for driving and light work, depending on your surgeon’s advice. Physical therapy becomes more focused on strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint. Daily routines become easier, and you’ll notice better control and endurance in your shoulder with regular effort and consistency.
3 Months and Beyond: Continued Gains
At the 12-week mark, your shoulder function should be significantly improved. Full recovery may continue for several more months. With continued therapy and home exercises, patients often return to hobbies and activities they’ve missed. Long-term results depend on staying active, avoiding reinjury, and maintaining strength through guided movement.
Stay Committed to the Process
Recovery from shoulder replacement doesn’t happen overnight—but with steady effort and expert care, significant improvement is possible. Follow your postsurgical instructions, stick with your exercises, and celebrate your progress along the way.
Contact Dr. DiPaolo for any questions regarding shoulder replacement surgery and the recovery process.
AUTHOR: Dr. Daneca DiPaolo is a highly-skilled, board-certified orthopedic surgeon located in Grenada, Mississippi. She offers the latest orthopedic techniques and provides quality, compassionate, state-of-the-art orthopedic care.
