Connie, I can't help on the joint replacement, but have had three rotator cuff repairs.  The main thing I can say about that is to do your physical therapy regularly and don't skimp on it once you are given the go ahead on moving your arm yourself.  From having a hip replacement, I would say the same applies to the joint replacement.  But be very careful once you think it has healed not to lift more than you should.  I did that on my next to last one; that's why I had to have the third one to redo the one I messed up by lifting too much with that arm and re-tore it.  Good luck to you.
Gwen
 I need to have a shoulder joint replacement and repair to my rotator
 cuff. Would appreciate any particulars that will make it easier going
 for this surgery..It will be my 5th joint replacement, but my 1st
 shoulder..I sure dread another surgery, but I guess if I want to give up
 some of the pain I will have to do it..Thanks for any advice..You all
 are so great..I lurk alot..

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 ~ Connie~