The reverse shoulder replacement recovery is reasonably fast after surgery. Most people are discharged home from hospital three to five days after their operation.

Rehabilitation is started within one day of the operation.

Once discharged, you will need to wear a sling for four to six weeks when away from home. This is primarily to remind people to treat your shoulder with care, and that it shouldn’t be knocked or bumped. It’s not necessary to wear the sling at home.

While out of the sling, don’t lift anything heavy with the affected arm and avoid lifting the arm up by itself.

Extensive physiotherapy is not needed and most rehabilitation is done in the first six weeks by individuals at home. You will be referred to physiotherapy about six weeks after surgery.

Most people are able to drive about five to six weeks after surgery, however we recommend doing a short “test drive” at a quiet time of day in your local area first to make sure you feel confident in your ability to control the steering wheel in an emergency situation.

People who play golf are generally able to return to sport after six months following their reverse shoulder replacement, if their shoulder feels comfortable.