Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Complete preparation and recovery instructions for total shoulder replacement and reverse shoulder replacement surgery.
Is Shoulder Replacement Right for You?
This May Be Right for You If...
- • You have severe shoulder arthritis confirmed by imaging
- • Pain significantly limits daily activities and sleep
- • Conservative treatments no longer provide relief
- • You're willing to follow arm movement restrictions during healing
- • You're medically stable enough for surgery
This May Not Be the Best Fit If...
- • Your shoulder pain may be from a rotator cuff tear (different surgery)
- • Conservative treatments haven't been fully tried
- • You have an active infection
- • Your pain is mild and doesn't limit daily life
Not sure? Call us and we'll help you decide.
What to Expect: Recovery Timeline
Recovery varies by individual. Your surgeon will discuss your specific timeline.
Questions Before Surgery?
It's normal to have questions or feel uncertain before any procedure. Our staff is here to help you understand what to expect and address any concerns.
You can call us anytime during office hours. If you're not sure whether something is normal or a concern, call anyway—we'd rather answer your question than have you worry.
Call Us If You Have Questions About:
- Medications to stop or continue
- What to bring on surgery day
- Arranging help at home
- Any other concerns
Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-12pm
About Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement surgery involves replacing damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components. This can include total shoulder replacement (both the ball and socket) or reverse shoulder replacement (for patients with rotator cuff damage).
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days and wear a sling for 4-6 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 4-6 months, with continued improvement up to one year after surgery.
Protecting your shoulder during the healing process is essential. Following these instructions and attending physical therapy will help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Key Recovery Milestones
- Discharge from hospital: 1-2 days
- Sling use: 4-6 weeks
- Active motion begins: Day 1
- Full recovery: 4-9 months
Pre-Surgery Instructions
2 Weeks Before Surgery
- Stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and other anti-inflammatory medications
- Multiple over-the-counter supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, turmeric, ginger, etc.) can also increase bleeding risk - stop these as well
- If you take prescribed aspirin for heart health, consult your surgeon before stopping
- Stop taking blood thinners as directed by your surgeon or cardiologist
- Continue taking prescribed heart and blood pressure medications unless told otherwise
- Complete pre-operative testing (blood work, EKG, chest X-ray) as ordered
- Attend pre-operative education class if offered
- Arrange for someone to help you at home for the first 1-2 weeks
- If you have no help at home, talk to us about skilled nursing care postoperatively
- Practice using your non-dominant hand for daily tasks
Prepare Your Home
- Move frequently used items to countertop level (avoid reaching overhead)
- Prepare easy-to-open containers and pre-made meals
- Set up a comfortable sleeping area (recliner or bed with extra pillows)
- Get button-front or loose-fitting shirts that are easy to put on
- Arrange for help with household tasks and driving
- Have ice packs ready for post-operative use
The Night Before Surgery
- Do not eat anything after midnight
- You may drink clear liquids (water, black coffee, tea) up to 2 hours before arrival time
- If you take any GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Trulicity, etc.), do not take the dose within 2 weeks of surgery
- If you take any GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Trulicity, etc.), do not have any oral intake within 12 hours of surgery
- Shower with antibacterial soap (Hibiclens or Dial)
- Do not write on your non-operated arm or shoulder
- Do NOT shave your shoulder or arm - this can increase infection risk - the surgical area will be clipped by nursing
- Remove all visable and hidden jewelry and leave all valuables at home
- Pack a small bag with loose-fitting clothes, non-slip shoes, and personal items
- Get a good night's rest
Sling Instructions
You will wear a sling for 4-6 weeks to protect your shoulder while it heals. Proper sling use is critical for recovery.
Sling Guidelines
- Wear the sling at all times except when bathing or doing exercises
- Keep the sling on while sleeping
- Make sure the sling supports your forearm and wrist
- Adjust straps so your elbow is at a 90-degree angle
- Check that the sling is not too tight around your neck
DO NOT:
- Lift anything heavier than a coffee cup with your operated arm
- Reach behind your back
- Push yourself up using your operated arm
- Make sudden movements with your arm
- Remove the sling without permission from your surgeon
Post-Surgery Care Instructions
Wound Care
- Keep the incision clean and dry
- Do not remove steri-strips or surgical glue—let them fall off naturally
- You may shower 48-72 hours after surgery; cover wound with plastic wrap
- Do not soak in a bathtub, pool, or hot tub for 4 weeks
- Watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage, fever)
Pain Management
- Take pain medications as prescribed—stay ahead of the pain
- Ice your shoulder for 20 minutes several times a day
- Sleep in a recliner or propped up with pillows for the first few weeks
- Gradually decrease pain medications as pain improves
- Use over-the-counter Tylenol as needed once off prescription medications
Activity Guidelines
- Wear your sling at all times as directed
- Do pendulum exercises and elbow/wrist movements as instructed
- Attend all physical therapy appointments
- Do not drive until cleared by your surgeon (typically 4-6 weeks)
- Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling with your operated arm
- You may type and use a mouse with your operated arm while in the sling
Physical Therapy
- Physical therapy typically begins within the first week after surgery
- Initial therapy focuses on passive range of motion (therapist moves your arm)
- Active motion begins around week 6
- Strengthening exercises begin around weeks 8-12
- Full recovery takes 4-6 months of dedicated therapy
When to Call Your Doctor
While some discomfort is normal after shoulder replacement surgery, certain symptoms may indicate a problem that requires attention. Contact our office if you experience any of these warning signs.
Warning Signs
- Fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C)
- Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around the incision
- Drainage or pus from the wound
- Pain that is getting worse instead of better
- Numbness or tingling that worsens in your arm or hand
- Fingers appear blue or feel cold
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (call 911)
Office: (580) 233-6707
Questions About Your Surgery?
Our team is here to help you prepare for a successful shoulder replacement.
(580) 233-6707