Shoulder Replacement Exercises: From Early Rehab to Strengthening
- Tom Morgan, Chartered Physiotherapist
- 1 day ago
- 1 min read
Updated: 1 hour ago
What exercises are for after shoulder replacement
Exercises after shoulder replacement should match the stage of healing. Early work is often about maintaining circulation and movement in areas that are safe to move, controlling posture and beginning the shoulder movements specifically permitted by the surgical team. Later exercise is about restoring active control, strength and useful function.
Early-stage exercise themes
Common early themes include hand opening and closing, wrist and elbow movement, gentle shoulder-blade setting and any passive or assisted shoulder movements that have been specifically allowed. The aim is controlled, regular practice rather than forcing range.
Progressing range of movement
As restrictions reduce, rehabilitation may progress from assisted movement towards more active movement. Quality matters: shrugging, excessive trunk lean or repeatedly pushing through sharp pain can make an exercise less useful even if the arm appears to move further.
Progressing strength
Strength work is usually introduced progressively. Depending on the type of replacement, this may emphasise deltoid function, rotator-cuff control where relevant, scapular stability and gradually heavier functional tasks. Resistance should be increased only when the current level is well controlled and symptoms settle appropriately afterwards.
See the full exercise pathway
Use the free Shoulder Replacement Recovery Resource Centre for an overview. The Complete Shoulder Replacement Recovery Guide includes a staged exercise library and practical progression guidance.
Trusted UK guidance
For national guidance on joint replacement care and rehabilitation, see NICE: Joint replacement (primary): hip, knee and shoulder.
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