Nurse Teachings on Exercises to Help Prepare for Shoulder Replacement Surgery Nurse/physical therapist educated the patient/caregiver regarding exercises to help prepare shoulder joint replacement surgery as follows: Pain in the joint can be a deterrent for participation in the exercise schedule. Taking a pain medication 30 minutes before the exercise schedule can help with better pain control and improved compliance with therapy. Placing an ice pack on the shoulder joint for 30 minutes before and [...]