How long is recovery following shoulder replacement surgery?

Full recovery from a shoulder replacement takes several months and is made up of about six weeks of limited movement, six weeks of low-impact exercise and approximately three months of strength training, claims WebMD. Rehabilitation typically begins right after surgery.

For the first six weeks following shoulder replacement surgery, patients should not move their affected arms except in the ways advised by a therapist, explains WebMD. Use of the shoulder muscles is disallowed during this time. The patient works with a physical therapist to add more exercise after these first six weeks, and more intense exercise, such as weightlifting, begins when the patient is ready.