Recovery after shoulder replacement goes something like this. Typically you will leave the hospital in 24 to 48 hours. The important thing is to move your shoulder with the assist of a motion machine or physical therapist. In the first four weeks someone else will move your shoulder which we call passive range of motion. In the second four weeks you will start participating in the movement of the shoulder. And finally in the last four weeks, we will begin to strengthen the arm. It is important to remember that our goal is to control your pain and improve your function every month.