Shoulder Replacements

Not every patient with shoulder pain needs surgery right away. In many cases, non-surgical treatments can successfully manage symptoms and delay, or even prevent the need for a shoulder replacement. Some of the most common alternatives include:

• Medications – Pain relievers or anti‑inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling.
• Physical therapy – Targeted exercises can strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness. A physical therapist can design a program that helps you maintain mobility and manage discomfort.
• Injections – Injections may provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation in the joint.
• Lifestyle modifications – Maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and using proper techniques during physical activity can ease strain on the shoulder joint.

If these treatments no longer provide relief, partial or total shoulder replacement surgery may be the most effective way to restore mobility and eliminate pain.

At Florida Advanced Spine and Orthopedics, we understand that every patient’s shoulder condition is unique. The best type of shoulder replacement, whether total shoulder replacement or partial shoulder replacement, depends on the extent of damage in your joint, your age, activity level, and overall health. A partial shoulder replacement may be recommended if only one section of your shoulder is affected by arthritis or injury, while a total shoulder replacement is often the best option when damage is more widespread.
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Shoulder replacement surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, though the exact time depends on the type of replacement being performed (total, reverse, or partial) and the complexity of the patient’s condition. This timeframe refers specifically to the surgical procedure itself.
In addition to the surgery, patients should expect extra time for preparation and recovery in the hospital. Before surgery, anesthesia is administered and the surgical area is prepared, which can add 30–60 minutes. After the procedure, patients are monitored in a recovery room until vital signs stabilize before being moved to a hospital room or discharged home.

So, while the surgery may last only a couple of hours, the entire process from check-in to recovery often takes most of the day.

Recovery after shoulder replacement surgery happens in stages and can take several months before you regain full strength and mobility. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–3 days after the procedure, though some may go home the same day depending on their health and the type of replacement performed.

In the first few weeks, your arm is usually supported in a sling while the joint begins to heal. Pain and swelling are managed with medication, and physical therapy typically starts shortly after surgery to gently restore movement. By 6 weeks, many patients are able to perform light daily activities on their own, though lifting, reaching, or strenuous use of the arm is limited.

By around 3 months, significant improvement in pain and mobility is common, and many patients resume more routine tasks. Full recovery—including rebuilding strength, flexibility, and endurance—often takes 4 to 6 months, with some patients continuing to improve for up to a year.

The exact timeline varies based on the type of surgery (total, reverse, or partial shoulder replacement), overall health, and how closely the rehabilitation program is followed. Most patients experience a major improvement in quality of life compared to before surgery.

Yes, physical therapy is a critical part of recovery after shoulder replacement surgery. While the surgery replaces the damaged joint, therapy is what helps you regain strength, flexibility, and the ability to use your arm for everyday activities.

Physical therapy usually begins shortly after surgery, often within the first day or two while you’re still in the hospital. Early exercises focus on gentle, assisted movements to prevent stiffness and protect the new joint. Once you return home, your therapy plan is tailored to your progress and typically continues for several months.

• First 6 weeks: Gentle range-of-motion exercises, often with your arm supported in a sling when not exercising.
• 6 to 12 weeks: More active stretching and strengthening to build stability in the joint.
• 3 to 6 months: Progressive strengthening and functional exercises to restore daily activity and improve endurance.

Most patients require 3 to 6 months of physical therapy, though some continue longer if recovery is slow or if a reverse shoulder replacement was performed. Staying consistent with your home exercise program and therapy sessions is one of the most important factors in achieving a strong, pain-free shoulder.