If a movement hurts, should I stop?

Your consultant can answer questions about your specific situation. It’s useful to know that doing some of your exercises and physiotherapy might feel uncomfortable or stiff – but if you’re in a lot of pain, you will usually be advised to go more gently. Rehabilitation is about encouraging use and mobility, but not damaging or inflaming the surgery site. In the first couple of weeks after surgery, avoid lifting heavy items or performing repeated activities above shoulder height. As you build up strength using your physiotherapy programme, you’ll be able to introduce activities above shoulder height.