It will not cause any damage to your incision or the joint replacement. The therapist will assist you with the exercises initially and show you how to assist yourself to do the exercises at home. Pain medication and cold packs will be used to control shoulder pain and swelling. This will also be helpful 20 to 30 minutes prior to exercise. The average length of stay in hospital following a total shoulder replacement is about 3 to 5 days.
Most people go directly home on discharge and manage very well.
Home Care assistance is recommended as necessary. Emphasis continues to be on relieving pain and swelling, gaining movement and strength of the shoulder, and improving functional use of your arm. Walk and be as active as possible. The therapist will help you to progress your exercises as you are able. Do the exercises prescribed for you regularly and gradually increase the functional use of your arm as advised.