3 months after biceps tenodesis + AC joint excision – still having shoulder pain. Anyone else?

1 comment(s) · Mar 7, 2026, 1:18 AM

Hi everyone, I’m just over 3 months post-op from shoulder surgery (biceps tenodesis for a torn labrum, AC joint excision, and subacromial decompression). I was in a sling for 6 weeks. Recovery has been pretty up and down. I still have persistent pain on the top of my shoulder and some pain along the right side of my neck. I sleep fairly well at night, but during the day the pain is usually around 4–6/10. My surgeon recently did a CT-guided injection into the joint thinking it might be capsulitis. I also started isometric strengthening about two weeks ago, but the pain still feels quite constant. Has anyone else gone through something similar after these procedures? How long did it take before things started improving? I’d really appreciate hearing others’ experiences.

Surgical debridement/manual labor

0 comment(s) · Mar 7, 2026, 1:14 AM

Has anyone had this surgery? I had it done 3 months ago, supraspinatus debridement for a shallow 1.5 cm tear, and a bursectomy. I am still in a lot of pain and have stiffness and I’m trying to gauge how long it will be for me to get back to my manual labor job (unrestricted). It’s a lot of overhead lifting and heavy stuff.

Has anybody not had formal PT ordered?

3 comment(s) · Mar 6, 2026, 11:38 PM

I had my second follow up on Monday with Wednesday being 4 weeks since joint decompression, distal clavicle excision, debridement of supraspinatus, type 2 SLAP repair/debridement, CA ligament debrided, and biceps tenodesis. At this appointment he said to discontinue sling & gave me some passive ROM exercises to do. Next follow up in 4 weeks. He said that we’ll see how I’m doing then before deciding on PT. Surgery was on my dominant arm. I’m having a hard time not trying to use it for everything without the sling as a reminder. He said that it’s important to allow it to be out of the sling so that the smaller muscles in and around the joint learn to engage. I will say that I’m using a pillow sling at night still. I tried without it, but it’s very painful. I haven’t seen many experiences posted here that mirror mine. By this evening I’ve been in so much pain that I’ve got the ice machine going on a 10 minute on/30 min off schedule. I don’t have the head of my bed elevated as high, but still have my pillow nest all set up.

Injury at gym

6 comment(s) · Mar 6, 2026, 7:06 PM

I was doing incline dumbbell press when I lost control of the dumbbell in my right hand. It proceeded to fall backwards making my shoulder suddenly rotate backwards with it. My shoulder hurts now and I can’t lift it all the way up without it hurting and feeling weak. How screwed am I and should I see a doctor? I’m 17m if it helps.

did you "train" for surgery? if so, how?

6 comment(s) · Mar 6, 2026, 6:29 PM

A friend of mine who went through a number of breast cancer and reconstructive surgeries was a big proponent of "training" for surgery. That is, getting yourself in as good a shape as possible prior to the surgery so that you heal better and recover faster. For her, it was both cardio and building muscle in her upper body. The flip side for me is that I'm in so much pain from the shoulder that I'm sliding into worse shape right now, not better, and I'm afraid to lift weights or do anything that might exacerbate the injury before surgery. Has anyone had success with getting better physically prepared for surgery? Any suggestions for a training program that I could implement, for a surgery date approximately 2 months away?

I'm to get a full reverse shoulder replacement

15 comment(s) · Mar 6, 2026, 4:33 PM

I saw the surgeon today. I was expecting standard repair for full thickness rc tear with retraction, anterior glenoid labrum tear, some partial tearing of intraspinatus tendon, and a bunch of other smaller stuff (fluid, bursitis, arthrosis). I'm not entirely sure why reverse but I got the impression that even though the surgery itself is ickier, the recovery is faster. I think part of her decision was based on my age and the fact that I live alone and won't have much help. I will spend one night in hospital. The sling comes off after three weeks, not six, and PT won't start until sling is off and I can drive, so for me I think it's kind of a win. I would love to hear from anybody who has had this procedure.

MRI results

2 comment(s) · Mar 6, 2026, 12:19 PM

Hi all. Been having pretty bad shoulder pain for almost 8 months now. It was extremely painful for the first 2-3months and has since just been a very annoying issue. I got my MRI results and just curious how bad/serious the issues seem and what I can proactively do moving forward. (My orthopedic appointment is over 2 weeks out)

Post surgical anxiety

16 comment(s) · Mar 6, 2026, 10:16 AM

I’m 2 weeks post op (repair of full tear of infraspinatus + bicep tenodesis). pain is minimal (thankfully) and I’ve had decent mobility since day one (also thankfully). PT seems really aggressive, but I’m assuming they know what they’re doing (or at least I hope so) But I am way too much in my own head that I have either already screwed something up or am going to screw something up and will have to do this all over again. The anxiety is pretty off the charts and impacting sleep and daily activities. Please tell me that this is a normal reaction to being stuck in a sling for 2+ weeks at home by myself and with no end in sight? If so, any suggestions?

Outer forearm pain/stiffness 2yrs post-shoulder surgery. Meds (Dexamethasone/Alphintern) fixed it temporarily—Anyone else?

0 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 10:21 PM

I’m 2 years post-op from arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The shoulder is solid, but I have a weird issue: • The Pain: Sharp stiffness and pain on the outer side of my forearm/elbow. • The Trigger: Specifically when I rotate my arm externally (like sticking your arm out to the side to stop someone from crossing in front of you). • The Sound: I hear/feel a "muscle gliding" or grinding sound around the elbow when I force the movement. • The Clue: I recently took Dexamethasone and Alphintern (enzymes) for dental work. The pain and stiffness completely vanished. The "gliding" sound became a clean "pop." Now that I’m off the meds, it’s all coming back. Standard PT exercises have done nothing. It feels like a physical/mechanical snag. Has anyone dealt with this? Could it be Radial Tunnel Syndrome or a Plica issue? If you’ve had symptoms disappear on steroids/enzymes and then return, what was your fix?

Small full thickness tear post arthrogram

0 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 8:54 PM

I’m 10 months post op for a bicep tenodesis and have had bicep and subscap pain since surgery. Today I had an arthrogram that was extremely painful. They told me it was hard to get the contrast into my shoulder capsule, saying it was probably tight from frozen shoulder as my surgeon suggested. I thought majority of my pain was in my bicep and subscap. Could the injection from the arthrogram have caused a small puncture/tear . I had a normal MRI 6 months ago besides some tendinosis.

People asking about your surgery

9 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 7:54 PM

How many of you get stopped by strangers asking about your rotator cuff surgery when you're out in your immobilizer?

Is pt enough for labrum tear?

7 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 7:37 PM

Hi, I just got back my mri results today of my left shoulder. They said this most likely is not operative. Was told over the phone I will have to do pt for it and possibly cortisone shot. 1. Mild biceps tendinosis and moderate rotator cuff tendinosis 2. Partial detachment of the superior aspect of the anterior labrum. I was t boned in a car accident 6 months ago and have been having issues ever since. I have been in pt for the past 5 months already for my neck and back. We never worked on my shoulder at all during that time. The thing is my left arm has significantly gotten worse in the past month. I'm in a lot of pain, have a lot of weakness in my arm and hand grip, numbness and tingling. Since I haven't been able to use my left arm that well I am literally having a lot of pain now in my right upper arm in the past week or so. Maybe because of the compensation for the lack of my left arm... Just trying to gather information and what my expectations should be. Thank you!

Pain management

8 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 7:24 PM

Curios about the pain after RC surgery. I have a full thickness tear with retraction and bicep tear. I had a double mastectomy 2 years ago and only had to take narcotics for 2 days. I’m not against taking them, but want it be mentally prepared. I keep hearing how painful it is.

Sharp Pain Day 21

11 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 3:09 PM

Day 21 and pain starts a few hours after I get up and after ROM exercise, minimal morning routine and desk work. The last few days the pain has been a 6+ and sharp in the bicep and much worse when I sit down. Post bicep tedonesis, RC clean up and labrum repair. Trying to stick with Advil 3x/day but when it’s bad, it’s bad. Spoke with PA yesterday who assured me that this is “very common” and it would take a new injury like a fall or overhead movement to ruin the repair. She said that at this point in the recovery, the bone is trying to heal around the anchors, which can cause a lot of pain. Really hoping for some relief soon. The pain really takes it out of me and I feel anxious and exhausted. Any advice?

12 weeks since rotator cuff surgery but still have numbness in fingers

6 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 2:46 PM

I am finally able to sleep better at night. Not in as much pain on a daily basis. What scares me is continuing numbness in fingers on arm where surgery was performed. Worse numbness is in middle and ring finger. At follow up appointment yesterday the nurse assistant told me to purchase and wear a carpal tunnel brace at night. Will numbness eventually go away? Any advice or exercise tips to help in making numbness better?

Small children and surgery. Help?

5 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 5:52 AM

I'm 32 with a high-grade tear of the supraspinatus tendon of my dominant arm. I'm scheduled for surgery in mid July (when my husband has a lull at work). I have a mostly independent four year old and a one year old who I am home solo with Mon-Thursday. My husband will likely only have two weeks max off. My mom is planning to visit and use sick time for her work but I'm unsure how long she will be able to stay. My surgeon says I will likely be back to work on light duty after 6 weeks. My husband says "we will figure it out" and then sends memes of one-armed moms... I'm dreading this whole ordeal. I think I'll do fine with cooking and cleaning is the least of my worries. Has anyone dealt with changing a 1 year old's diaper? Looking for encouragement, tips, tricks for recovery with small children.

Anyone with slap tear have luck with PT? and able to get back into bodybuilding?

8 comment(s) · Mar 5, 2026, 12:20 AM

I start PT tomorrow for lower back pain(likely bulging disk), and shoulder pain(likely slap tear). Wondering how pt has gone for anyone who has done it. I read someone saying they did 8 weeks of pt and it did nothing just made it hurt more on a daily basis. I'm 34 years old so I don't know if I can do surgery. My left shoulder is now noticeably smaller than my right because I've had this injury for 1.5 years and haven't treated it and workout wise it feels like I'm working out with kid gloves can't even push myself on anything like I once did.. It's really depressing.

14 months post op

2 comment(s) · Mar 4, 2026, 8:28 PM

Hello about 14 months post op from a slap tear, bicep tenodesis, labrum tear from 12-6 and my glenohumeral ligament was torn. I’ve had great results but every so often for a few weeks I’ll have some serious tenderness and pain where the anchor is in my shoulder. Has anybody dealt with this? My range of motion is great and I am very strong but where that anchor is will get super tender and just ache for days/weaks.

AC Joint and tendonitis 4 weeks in.

1 comment(s) · Mar 4, 2026, 4:45 PM

I was diagnosed with an ac joint separation after injuring myself lifting an overhead door up it was paired with bicep tendonitis. Injury was 4 weeks ago. The tenderness on the top of my shoulder stopped but I still have a burning pain in the anterior (front) part of my shoulder. PT is a nightmare as most of the stretches or exercises causes burning as well as doing nothing. Is this normal?

6 weeks post-op: details for anyone preparing for surgery

20 comment(s) · Mar 4, 2026, 3:46 PM

I really appreciated the posts from others who have shared their experiences, particularly as I prepared for surgery. I don't think I have anything groundbreaking to share, just an overview of how things went for me: **This was my situation**: (non-dominant shoulder, thankfully) 1. SLAP tear 2. synovitis 3. subacromial bursitis and spurring 4. acromioclavicular arthritis  **Procedures Performed: Shoulder arthroscopy** 1. biceps tenodesis 2. subacromial decompression 3. distal clavicle excision 4. extensive debridement **Background**: I had experienced pain periodically for years, with calcific tendonitis flare-ups as well as a combo of deep aches, stabby pains, and poor range of motion. I did multiple steroid injections, PT, and that needle procedure for the calcific deposit. It just got progressively worse and I was so exhausted from the pain. The surgeon agreed we had exhausted all of our options other than surgery. The **procedure**: details are above, but it was a generally positive experience. It was at a very efficient surgery center, nurses were delightful, meds were fun, had a nerve block and anaesthesia, and I was on my way home about 4-5 hours after walking in the door. **Initial recovery:** oof, it was painful. The nerve block was very unsettling to me, but when it wore off I definitely experienced Big pain. It was humbling how much help I needed with things like getting dressed, showering etc. I stayed on top of the pain with the circulating ice cuff, tylenol/advil, and oxy. Sleep would only be in 1-2 hour chunks. It's all a bit of a blur now, but I knew what to expect from this sub. **Weeks 2-6**: The pain improvement wasn't linear. So I'd think I was through the worst of it and then get slammed, usually the day of PT and day after PT. I had saved some of the oxy to help deal with the worst of it. I also had extensive bruising from the base of my neck down to my elbow. I got better at doing things one handed. Sleep got a bit better. PT was tough!!! But the pendulum swings and stretches really helped out. I was surprised at how tired I was- usually needing to lie down each afternoon. I was fortunate to be able to take short term disability, so pushing myself to get back to work wasn't an issue. **Most helpful purchases for me:** wedge pillows, bed rail, circulating ice cuff **Helpful, but not critical, purchases:** shirts with snap shoulders (helpful, but only really needed for first few days when I still had the dressings on), mesh sling for shower, one armed bra (helpful when swelling was bad). **Final reflections:** I'm so amazed that people can do this solo, it must take a huge amount of planning and coordination. I'm grateful for reasonably strong medical insurance and work benefits that removed the financial and professional stress of the experience. I was initially naive about how impactful the surgery would be; before finding this sub I had assumed that it would be a 5-7 day recovery. I wish my surgeon's office had a "shoulder surgery for dummies" packet. And, final thought, the experiences shared on this sub run the gamut. If you haven't had surgery yet, be careful not to doom scroll or *only* focus on the experiences of people who have the most challenging results.

Frozen Shoulder Tips?

9 comment(s) · Mar 4, 2026, 10:36 AM

Does any one have some tips on what could help with frozen shoulder or what helped them? Just over 6 weeks out rotator cuff repair. Started physio 2 days ago and they informed me my shoulder is frozen. Very little range of motion plus very sore and painful. 12 weeks of intense physio begins and I plan to go all in with that with the home stretches. So far after 2 days the work outs have loosened it up the slightest bit so that is good.

Extensive Bankhart - Positive Rehab Stories

0 comment(s) · Mar 4, 2026, 8:07 AM

Supraspinatus Tear

38 comment(s) · Mar 3, 2026, 6:02 PM

Other than a MRI confirming you had a torn supraspinatus tear, what symptoms did you have?

How serious could this be?

8 comment(s) · Mar 3, 2026, 10:49 AM

So about 2 months ago i started experiencing some pain in the rear delt area during mostly all pushing and fly(pec dec) movements. For some time i kinda ignored it until about a month ago it peaked during a chest day. Made a big mistake of pushing through the pain thinking it will be alright. But since then i have not been able to do any pressing or fly movements. But the weird thing is, i only experience pain under load. Like i can easily move my arm around and over, without any pain, but when under the slightest of loads, i feel it. For example, i normally used to shoulder press(dumbbells) 25kg, but rn even when i try to lift 5kgs i experience sharp pain, like i can lift it up but there is sharp pain at the top in that rear delt region, which I'm pretty sure is a rotator cuff issue. What I'm trying to understand is how bad can it be, since it's been almost a month, since the last week i have also been doing some rotator cuff exercises but today at the gym when I tried to press, the pain was the same. Planning to go see a physio soon, would be great to know your opinions.

Rotator Cuff Sprain a year ago

7 comment(s) · Mar 3, 2026, 4:32 AM

i (19F) got sudden shoulder pain last may. I went to a couple of doctors all of whom suggested vitamins, heating pads and this heating balm thing none of which has helped at all. The heating pad only works as long as i have it on, the moment i take off it starts hurting again. One doctor prescribed physical therapy i tried the exercises for a month, they didn’t work out either or i just stopped. Can anyone suggest anything cause it’s starting to get worse. I also want to mention that I’m not athlete or anything it just randomly started when i woke up day.

Retear? Bankart lesion repair 1 week out accident.

4 comment(s) · Mar 3, 2026, 1:20 AM

I had this kind of movement and kind of held into the wall in order not to fall from stairs I was wearing slippers then I almost slipped into the steep stairs and forced my right hand (surgical arm) to go in this position to prevent falling. The arm had impact. Had pain like the feeling when it used to dislocated for 2 minutes but then gone. It didn't look like it dislocated. Just pain similar pain when I used to post dislocate it before surgery. Did I have a retear ? This is exactly 7 days after my arthroscopic bankart lesion repaor surgery. Please help

Insertional Footplate Tear supraspinatus

0 comment(s) · Mar 2, 2026, 8:42 PM

I recently fell directly on my elbow, then kept being active, and woke up the next day with intense left shoulder pain. Got an MRI and it showed an insertional footplate tear of the supraspinatus — full thickness. I was really hoping it was just a partial or moderate-sized tear because I improved a ton in the first two months of physio… but now at the 3–4 month mark I’ve totally plateaued. What’s weird is I can do way more than what the typical “full-thickness tear” signs and symptoms look like online. My ROM is still pretty good, pain is way down, and I only really feel pain(and god does it hurt) with weighted horizontal raises and when I do that volley-like motion with my arm. I saw Dr. Meaghan Rollins at Durham Bone & Joint. She confirmed it’s a full-thickness tear but was super neutral — basically said “if you wanted to do an injection, PRP is what I would do,” but didn’t push one way or the other. Volleyball is a huge part of my life and I’m stuck trying to decide between PRP or just going for surgery. Has anyone had this exact type of injury (stable insertional footplate full-thickness supraspinatus tear)? • Did you go PRP or straight to surgery? • How did it go long-term? • Anyone here actually seen Dr. Meaghan Rollins at Durham Bone & Joint? Would really appreciate any advice.

Arthroscopic debridement / possible subacromial decompression

13 comment(s) · Mar 2, 2026, 4:28 PM

I had a second opinion today, and since my tear is relatively small he suggested this as an option. I’ve had pain for over 10 years, and conservative care at this point hasn’t done anything. Has anyone had this surgery and what was the outcome? He made it seem much easier than full RC repair but I know it’s still surgery at the end of the day Thank you!

Rotator Cuff repair, bone smoothing and Bicep Outcome

3 comment(s) · Mar 2, 2026, 2:57 PM

I'll be honest, I don't pay enough attention to the doctor, I just wanted my shoulder back to normal; it clicked, locked, gave sharp pains at various elevations, you all know the pain. Reading everyones post of superspinatus and all that other stuff...made me realize I didn't pay attention enough to my doctor to know what I had...so I went into myChart...It said pre-op prognosis full rotator cuff tear, possible degenerative long head biceps tendon, chronic impingement...then it said post-op diagnosis, full thickness rotator cuff tear, long head partial tear, degenerative labrum and subacromial impingement...so I had right shoulder arthroscopy, rotator cuff repair subacromial decompression and bicep tenodesis with suture anchor...so again, whether its superspinatus or all that other stuff, I'm not sure, I just know it sucked....I'm here to give feedback of what may help in recovery, because I read some of the posts and I'm perplexed why I'm where I am when I had my surgery Jan 6. Please note, I almost cancelled the surgery out of fear of recovery time and hearing stories, but my mom who had surgery at 65, now 76, called me a name that hit deep and followed it up with you don't want to deal with it when youre older so do it now (think short Filipina Nurse (now retired) who worked in ER in tough hospitals of Chicago and has a chip on her shoulder - no pun intended)) Again, I understand we are each different and this isn't medical advice...just my observations and what I did to maybe help me heal faster. The day of surgery, I was on post op drugs and recovery, took Norco first night and next day Next day, my wife started to give me stool softeners to counter the pain meds so she loaded me up with Magnesium to ensure I wouldn't get blocked up (she's a nurse so I didn't question). I'd alternate between non steroid pain pills after day one because I didn't want to be on Narco too long Two days after surgery, I took branched chain amino acids, creatine, essential amino acids along with Advil or Tylenol, tapering off Norco. My shoulder was sore, felt like a big solid rubber mass but my bicep was not. I was pretty active this day cooking dinner that night out of boredom of not going to work and wearing that sling pillow combo. I did cook with my left hand but pretty much said just get busy again vs lay on the couch. We did rent the power recliner that I thought I'd sleep in, but found the couch more comfortable and just propped myself up with pillows. That recliner lasted a week in my house as the couch was better suited for me, stack of pillows, a pillow armrest and the bonus was the dogs at my feet. It just felt more spacious and comfortable with a blanket over me as I always napped on the couch so just felt right Week and a half later, I stopped wearing that stupid pillow because I couldn't handle it anymore, I basically had internal tantrums with myself and external to my wife. I went back to the office and visit the team, drove etc, minus the pillow. I was extra cautious and kept it immobile as best as possible. At night, I would put the pillow back on to really lock my arm back in place while I slept. It also helped air out my pits from being pinned down during the day. They were getting itchy due to me keeping my shoulder immobile during the day. For clothing I wore electric heated vest from Costco and Vuori type long sleeves (ponto performance long sleeves) in the cold of winter, no jacket to go out, just a warmed up car, a warm hat and the clothing that I mentioned. Id recommend stretchy clothing so you can push your arm through. I'm a hoodie guy typically but found hoodies to be more cumbersome; t-shirts and long sleeve crew necks are the best, hoodie just adds a layer of complexity On Jan 26, I got my sutures removed and on Jan 30 I had my PT eval. Been doing PT twice a week since then. I committed to just moving my arm daily be it when I get in the shower, wake up, I was and currently am always trying to use it. I do a little Miyagi style workouts by sanding the floor or painting the fence (cleaning the counters in different motions) Today, albeit not fast, I can easily raise my right arm above my head on a front raise. Lateral raise I can raise it to shoulder height. I'm lifting with 2.5 pound lat raise and front raise. Hardest thing to do today is military press. In no way am I the epitome of being in shape, I'm more dad bod with four pack with a motorcycle tire, but I did go to the gym, I'm 5'7 and shrinking, weigh 220, but I did lift heavy prior to surgery. I don't do bicep workouts at all right now, as I want to ensure the achor point is set but I do keep the shoulder moving now. Back to what I do daily: PT, started fairly quick, which I was happy. When times got tough, I felt a click/lock or pain in my traps or shoulder blades, I would describe it as best as possible to my therapist about the pain, its location and how it radiated and we would work through it. It was all about instability and relearning so she would make me do a rigamarole of banded presses, banded static holds or stretches. At first I was nervous I over did things because on some days, my arm felt numb or achy, but both the therapist and the doc said it'd take a lot to damage my shoulder, like a car accident or a fall down the stairs, but exercising and lifting, as long as I stuck to the protocol would not tear it out. Best thing you can do is be specific on describing the pain, don't just say it hurts. Guide the therapist to how or where the pain starts and radiates. When doing PT, there are times where its scary and painful, but you just gotta push through the clicks, eventually it will stop. Communicate and ask what you can and can't do, but get your shoulder moving IMO asap. Besides raises and arm swings, I've found I enjoy what I call candy cane/tap dance lifts (reminded me of the old black and white dances in the 60's that my parents watched)- I lay on the ground, back to the floor, take a broom stick or mobility stick or something rigid that's around three or four feet in length, I placed my right hand on a towel, hold the mobility stick with right hand and slide my right arm up above my head by pushing it using my left hand (again, doing this on lying on the floor). Keeping shoulder moving is key to healing faster IMO, use it or lose it, don't baby it Go to the gym, do leg days, lift with the opposite arm,everything for chest back and shoulder but always do shoulder PT. I went back in actually a week after surgery and just treadmill walking. Plus most gyms have a lot of bands just to do PT My buddy who had hip replacement healed up quickly was back in the office in a month or two, but doing a lot of PT. He's the one who said take Creatine, Essential Amino Acids and Branched Chain amino acids (I took this prior to surgery anyhow, but I just took more than what recommended was tbh). If I'm trying to grow my muscle back, now was the time they needed the most help. In addition, I took a slew of multivitamins and supplements, but more for my brain and overall health vs recovery (mushrooms, glutathione, cognitive support, testosterone support and heart health (I have high cholesterol, crap memory and low testosterone at 47 Ask your PT for extra bands and tie them in your car so you can do internal and external rotation workouts while driving, banded bench press, etc...even when uncomfortable. I have one band tied around the handle of the passenger door, another the driver side door (but shorter) and a band from the headrest to do bench presses and static military presses (I call them static, but when I lift, I don't let the bands pull my arm backwards, they stay static front and back, while moving my arm vertically. Again, keep moving and work through the pain, it will for sure be uncomfortable, it will lock/click when you do raises, but that will go away. When there is resistance, you may have to focus on an opposing muscle to weirdly take the the resistance away. Do shoulder circles, arm rotations etc...don't overdo it, but IMO you need to use it before it gets to used to being locked in. Again, I understand we are all different but I was scared to get the surgery done, and now I'm shocked that I'm where I am in such short timeframe and I think it's a combination of the supplements to build back the muscle, and just keeping it moving as best as possible, adhering to the doctors/thereapists as much as possible, but reading your own body to see what you can and can't do. You can do more than you think, just gotta be willing to work through it. Good luck all, you got this! What's stinks today is that I have found during PT, my left arm clicks more than my right arm (this is the one that had surgery) when doing basic raises, FML

Observations five days post surgery

13 comment(s) · Mar 1, 2026, 1:48 PM

I had a full thickness supraspinatus tear repaired Tuesday. Observations from five days in a sling after shoulder surgery: * It’s so boring. Oh my god I am so bored. * If you hate the sling they gave you, you can (check with your doctor and then) order an upgrade. I ordered the DonJoy UltraSling Pro on Amazon. No more neck pain! * I’m convinced the sling is only about 10% for supporting the arm and 90% for keeping me from forgetting and doing something dumb like lunging for a dropped phone. The sling protects me from me. * sooooooo boring * Still possible to bake cookies. Definitely possible to eat said cookies. * You’re supposed to drink a ton of water. This is inconvenient when getting up and fussing with pants is a giant production every time you have to pee. * You can do everything right and still have pain. This is not an excuse to stop doing it right. Possibly a life lesson. * Dogs do not care that you can no longer both be on your phone and give scritches. To them the choice is obvious. * When it’s harder to give out cuddles, you have to be intentional and proactive to keep your kids/wife/dogs well supplied.

Has anyone had tenodesis revision?

14 comment(s) · Mar 1, 2026, 1:35 PM

I have a strong suspicion my tenodesis failed, i wonder if anyone managed to get a revision for it?

Constant soreness in shoulder, 5 months post op...AC inflammation?

9 comment(s) · Mar 1, 2026, 1:30 PM

In October, I had rotator cuff repair (patch) for a partial tear in the subscapularis and debridement for a calcium deposit and bone spur. Recovery went well. I did all of my PT and I have almost full range of motion. I say almost because I reach behind my back but it's still stiff. But for movement....Im pretty good. I was cleared to stop PT sessions in January and continue at home, which I do but I have this constant soreness that won't go away and I feel it when I lift my arm or use it in anyway. I feel it the worst when I sleep. And it's become a constant pain since then. Every single day I feel it. I went to my Ortho on Thursday. He took an x-ray and it showed no calcium deposits. He concluded that it was AC inflammation. He suggested ice and if it keeps getting worse or doesn't go away, steroid pills and if that doesn't work, an injection, which I am not on board with because I had two of them already for my elbow and wrist and they did nothing. Has anyone experienced AC inflammation post op and how did you handle it? I kind of need some suggestions on dealing with this because, while I can function, it's uncomfortable.

Sleeping in bed

24 comment(s) · Mar 1, 2026, 1:18 PM

50/M How long did it take before you were able to move from the recliner to the bed. I had the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, supscapularus, and biceps tendons reattached 2 months ago and attempted to sleep in the bed last night and had to move back to the recliner after a few hours because of the pain, and was curious how long it took people to be able to comfortably move back to the bed.

Nifty lil' Lamp

2 comment(s) · Feb 28, 2026, 10:40 PM

I loved this lamp for recovering! It really doesn't have to be this brand but having the remote was a lifesaver. I didn't have to fumble around in the dark trying to find the light switch. https://glocusent.com/products/the-best-reading-lights-for-bed

Even shopping hurts

21 comment(s) · Feb 28, 2026, 5:49 PM

I’m six months post op from rc surgery and biceps tenodesis. From all doctors notes it’s healing well and I have decent range of motion. It’s just that I still have pain! I’m hoping to hear from others who still had some pain at 6 months. I can’t go shopping for a couple hours even holding my bag with my good hand because the bad arm starts to ache. And just pulling the covers over me with my bad arm really hurts. I have told the PT this and they still discharged me. I meet with my doctor in a couple weeks. Should I ask for more PT?

Returning Pain

7 comment(s) · Feb 28, 2026, 4:59 PM

I had surgery 10 days ago to repair a full thickness supraspinatus tear, bicep tendonesis and subacromial decompression. I’m a 37F I’ve been fully off pain meds since day five, even OTC. Last night the pain returned and I ended up taking one of the opioid meds after OTC didn’t work and pain was still at an 8 after an hour. I’m not sure what brought it on, I tried multiple repositioning attempts, including the sling, and walking around. It only provided temporary relief and the pain would build back again. Today is the same but pain only comes when I am sitting. Should I be concerned? I did call the on call nurse line for my ortho but haven’t heard back, that was a few hours ago.

Wrist pain

9 comment(s) · Feb 28, 2026, 3:27 PM

Anyone else have wrist pain after getting out of the sling? I was in a sling for six weeks after a massive rotator cuff tear. I have swelling in my hands which they said is normal and will take a while to go away since my arm was immobilized for six weeks. I was not expecting my wrist to hurt with flexion. Just curious if anyone else experience this. I start PT on Tuesday and will bring it up at that appointment.

Full-thickness supraspinatus tear (11 mm)

34 comment(s) · Feb 28, 2026, 10:58 AM

​ Hey everyone, I’ve got a full-thickness supraspinatus tear that’s now 11 mm (it was 6 mm six months ago). No retraction, no muscle atrophy. In daily life I have almost zero pain. Only heavy pressing (bench, OHP, dips) triggers it, so I’ve stopped doing those. Push-ups and incline bench feel fine. I’m torn about what to do. Since it has progressed, part of me thinks I should fix it now while the tissue still looks good. On the other hand, I’m functioning well day to day. For those who had a similar tear: Did you go for surgery or manage it conservatively? If you had rotator cuff repair, when were you able to start training legs again (squats, leg press, deadlifts)? Would really appreciate hearing real experiences. I wrote this with chatgpt, English isn't my first language.

Shoulder immobility, pain— worried

1 comment(s) · Feb 28, 2026, 3:41 AM

Hi all! I’ve been dealing with shoulder and back pain for a few weeks. This week it started to become unbearable, so I made an appointment with my primary. Between Tuesday when I made the appointment and Thursday, I lost mobility in my left shoulder. I can move my arm elbow down, but cannot lift my arm. Can’t put it outward to grab something a side table. It is very weak, I can’t even hold my phone. My back is still in pain as well, and I am having trouble bending/ sitting up. Pain is going down my arm to my elbow at times and across my shoulder blade to my spine Most of the time. I have been getting tingling/ numbness sometimes as well. I saw my primary Thursday and she agreed something is wrong but unfortunately with my insurance I need to get an X-ray and go to pt before they will even approve an mri. X-ray was negative for anything and I couldn’t get in with the PT until Tuesday. My doctor is thinking rotator cuff or frozen shoulder issue, which kind of lined up with what I was finding researching. I did not have a major catastrophic injury, but my 5 year old did jump on my shoulder earlier this week and it hurt badly. Additionally i was in a bad accident and rolled my car several years ago, and have had ongoing pain flare up with this shoulder. When the accident occurred they didn’t find anything after testing but it took a few months to heal up. Anyone have a similar experience? What did it end up being? How long was it until you were diagnosed.? I’m know your not doctors but I am freaking out about this being a long term problem and it is already significantly inferring with my life. I have no idea what to expect.

3 days post op.....how long until a decent night sleep :)

36 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 11:11 PM

I know everyone is different, just curious how long some of you had to wait until you could actually sleep again. I had a full tear, partial labrum and bicep tendon tear. I actually dont even know if they had to do anything to the labrum or bicep...but I dont think so. I go see the doc next Friday...so I will find out more. I had to wait about 4 months for surgery because right after I had my MRI, my partner was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to have a double mastectomy....so I needed to postpone my surgery to help her through that....which is why I dont really know if some of the tears had healed without needed to be repaired...and I was so tired, I forgot to ask my doc when he called me the next day. Anyways...I have been pretty sleep deprived for the last 6 months or so....so I am just curious how long it took for some of you to be able to lay down without the inevitable pain building up...and if you found a comfortable position to get some sleep. Appreciate it. Edit: Just wanted to update, first...i cut back on the oxy (taking 2 in the morning and just some Tylonol after that) because i didnt feel much more pain that wasnt typical pre-surgery. Well that was a mistake. I woke up after the usual 10 to midnight nap and was in by far the worst pain I had experienced post op. Took a couple oxy and plugged into the ice machine while thinking about a post I saw here where someone went to the ER for pain. Not that it was that bad...but bad enough to get me thinking. Lesson learned....dont go cold turkey with prescribed meds...they are not a quick boost, but are managing the pain over time. The ice machine is a blessing. I also have a large shoulder specific gel thing that I toss in the freezer that is amazing. Totally conforms to the shoulder way better than the ice machine, and is super cold for like 20-30 minutes. Ice really is a nice reprieve from the general achiness. As for sleep, I have been doing much better. Using a recliner. Sleeping from about 10pm to midnight. Up for 3 to 4 hours and then crash, off and on, for another 3 hours or so. Finally get up and start making coffee around 6:30 to 7. I also get super tired after lunch so I can grap a small nap. All in all, I am not nearly as exhausted as I started out. Thanks everyone for the encouragement and suggestions. It really has helped...and seeing how bad it can be...I am not ignoring the little victories.

Sudden Weakness

0 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 10:29 PM

I had surgery June 2nd for a full RC tear, a part of my Labrum tore off and was free floating in my shoulder and bicep tenodesis. My recovery was fantastic I was lifting weights again in late October and cleared/released by my Ortho the first week of December. A week or so ago I started getting a noticeable weakness in my repaired arm/shoulder when I am lifting weights and it happened again tonight . It came on kind of suddenly and am not sure what the cause is, should I be worried?

I dislocated my shoulder two months ago from a fall, and since then, it has been slipping out many times. I finally got an X-ray yesterday, and the orthopedic doctor put it back in place, but I couldn't understand what he told me from the X-ray because of the language barrier. I need help with it

7 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 6:34 PM

Home exercises- how long?

10 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 6:33 PM

I had an arthroscopy with biceps tenodesis for a torn labrum September 25th. I finished up with PT at the end of January and I’ve done home exercises 5/7 days a week for the month of February. Can anyone give me an estimate of how long I will continue with home exercises? I know everyone is different, I’d just like to have an idea. I have been swimming once a week and light strengthening 3-4 times a week.

Shoulder injury or nah? With a better picture

7 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 3:25 PM

6 Weeks Post Op active rom bankart + capsulorrhaphy + remplissage

8 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 1:00 PM

Man Im finally free from the sling. I still feel useless and I feel like I look dumb going to the gym since I dont have a natural arm swing but I feel great other than that. My shoulder feels super stiff and stable, feels way better than pre surgery honestly. Im pretty stoked I can lift my arm now, feels awesome and weird. Never thought id be this happy to lift my arm lmao.

Bankart repair and PT

1 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 12:45 PM

I had a \*\*Bankart repair with two anchors\*\* one month ago. In two weeks I will remove the sling and should begin physical therapy. In my country, doctors and physiotherapists are often not very competent, and I am afraid to start physical therapy in case they make things worse or disturb the repair. What is your advice, and which exercises did you do after 6 weeks when you removed the sling?

7 months out w/pain

9 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 12:44 PM

57yr Female. I am 7 months out of rotator cuff and bicep tendon repair. My shoulder hurts more than it has ever hurt and my surgeon doesn’t seem to think it’s a big deal. I have good rotation but It’s incredibly painful. I’m wondering if anybody has had this experience. TIA!

I got a Popeye deformity, did anyone fix it?

17 comment(s) · Feb 27, 2026, 12:21 AM

I am only a few weeks out of surgery, i had bicep tenodesis, and i strongly suspect the anchor to the tenodesis came out as my bicep looks deformed. I want to know if there is any hope to fix it? I am strongly regretting this surgery which i now believe it was not the right procedure in the first place (i had shoulder impingement and my symptoms did not even match with a tenodesis procedure). Ive been looking on reddit and haven't found anyone who actually fixed the deformity in a revision, which is making my hopes feel even worse

Out of sling in 2 weeks

2 comment(s) · Feb 26, 2026, 3:45 PM

My husband had a reverse shoulder replacement on Feb. 9th. He's out of the sling as of today and will start PT in a month. Amazing.

Best shirt types for immediate post-op?

17 comment(s) · Feb 26, 2026, 11:48 AM

My surgeon has given me the choice of a “stretch baggy t-shirt” that they would guide my arm into before putting on the immobilizer , or an XL button up that they would put the immobilizer under. Given that I won’t be able to shower for a few days I’m trying to decide which is best for comfort, sleep and practical use for the first few days. I’m used to sleeping without a shirt but definitely not with an immobilizer against my skin. And there’s the issue of no deodorant before surgery so if it’s a t-shirt that could get nasty. I would appreciate any suggestions.