Shoulder arthroplasties in specialized centers are routine procedures with an increasing number of operations in the developed countries. Restoration of pain free shoulder function requires an intensive, specific and individual rehabilitation program for each patient. There is a phase-like course with different specific demands and measures that extends over a period of several weeks. Return to sport and a pain free function for activities of daily living resulting in a high patient satisfaction can routinely be expected. This excellent perspective, extent and intensity of the rehabilitation program shall be part of the preoperative decision making.
