Hi Jules,

I just had an anatomical TSR. I'm a very fit, 70 year old male, in the gym everyday. Because it was anatomical, the subscapularis (one of the rotator cuff muscles) is released and then reattached after the replacement. It takes time for that to heal. You'll definitely feel it when rotating your arm inward in rehab. The first two weeks I just rested, some arm "hanging" called Codman exercise, and then a continuous passive motion machine for two weeks, and then real PT started.

I still had what I consider a quick recovery. I do mostly cardio, and was able to get back on the spin bike in 5 weeks, but without putting pressure on the handlebar with my operated arm. It's 9 weeks now, and I can gently rest my hand on the handlebar.

Resistance and strength training come after ROM and flexibility is restored. If I did play racket sports. I'd be very cautious about getting back into that and follow Dr's guidance closely.

If your RC is already damaged, you'll need a reverse TSR. Initial recovery is a little quicker, but I think there are permanent limitations on how far you can raise your hand to play racquet sports, for example.

But if you're in the kind of pain I was in, you'll feel much better within days of the surgery. Don't get me wrong, the first few days are painful, and you have to sleep propped up and on your back.

I'm a veteran of joint replacements - both knees, right hip, and now left shoulder. Couldn't be happier with the results.

All the best to you!

Joe