Advice for my 75 year old dad

1 comment(s) · Jan 7, 2026, 5:30 PM

My 75 year old dads shoulder has been hurting him for several months. It dont hurt all the time. Its very intermittently. It will start to hurt him like a stabbing pain. He will go to the doctor and get some shots and the pain goes away. He has full range of motion. He can split logs in log splitter. Work around the house for weeks and wont hurt. Then out of nowhere is starts hurting again. Goes back to doctor and gets shots and can go again weeks without hurting then hurts again until it does. This is his MRI. He is scheduled for surgery on Feb 2nd. Few questions. 1. At 75 years old is it wise to have this surgery? 2. What would you do if in his shoes? Can he heal without being messed up for rest of his life? 3. Any other advice for his situation? He's a very healthy man. Just the shoulder pain problem. At 75 he still paints houses which he has done for 55+ years. Plants gardens each year. Cuts his own grass. Cut grass for other people. Works around house all day and stays busy most of the day.

Surgery yesterday UK

6 comment(s) · Jan 7, 2026, 9:51 AM

Hi, I had surgery yesterday where they also removed calcium buildup and my nerve block has worn off completely as of a few hours ago. My surgeon prescribed co codamel. I’ve been taking them but this pain is something else. I’m trying to sleep but I am in agony with no position easing it. Would have preferred the pins and needs sensation to this. What can I ask for in the uk that will help?

Frozen Shoulder / Torn Rotator Cuff Questions

11 comment(s) · Jan 7, 2026, 12:03 AM

Hi all, I have been having limited use, weakness of my right shoulder, in addition to numbness and tingling of the last three fingers and forearm, can't open sliding windows or sliding doors, reach or lift anything from above, eye level or behind, nor can I cross over the front of myself to reach, grab seat belts or even buckle the seat belt. Ripping toilet paper hurts. I can't lie down or nap on the affected side. My research pointed me to rotator cuff damage/injury. I reached out to my primary and I was sent for xrays of shoulder and spine and referred to orthopedics. I asked the orthopedist about the rotator and they said oh no it isn't the rotator, its frozen shoulder and gave me an injection. 2 months later it still hurts the same, if not more. I was also given physical therapy exercises. In your experiences is there an overlap in the frozen shoulder pain and symptoms with those of a torn or injured rotator? If you were given an injection, how long until it took affect? Is an injection a bad move if the shoulder was misdiagnosed? Or did they jump the gun with the frozen shoulder diagnosis to avoid an mri? Also, what painkillers have you experienced are most effective for either condition? I was given 5% lidocaine patches which haven't done anything at all. Thanks for any information!

Frozen Shoulder After 7 Weeks

13 comment(s) · Jan 6, 2026, 11:20 PM

I’m 7 weeks post-op from surgery for bicep tendon and a small rotator cuff tear. I started PT one week after surgery and was only in the sling for two weeks. My PT has been three days a week and I purchased the pulley for at-home exercises. Since day one of PT I’ve been concerned with my overhead ROM. Everything else has been progressing fine, but overhead has been horrible. All simple exercises at home like using a towel on a table, using a broom overhead while lying down, etc. have not progressed at all. I’m in my early 40’s and in great shape. I have been diligent with the PT and I feel like my therapist has been pushing me. I am wincing in pain and having the therapist push my arm as far as possible and it just won’t budge. It feels like it’s stuck. I saw my surgeon again last week and he agrees that I’m frozen. I now have to have capsular release surgery and manipulation under anesthesia this week, just 8 weeks and one day post-op. Has anyone else out there had a similar experience? I just don’t understand how it got to this? From the first week of therapy it was a concern. I pushed and pushed and so did my PT. I don’t understand how I could have scar tissue blocking progress that quickly. I feel so bummed out and quite frankly, angry. I know in the long run this surgery was the right move, but I have regret now. I was living with pain for so long, this seems 10 times worse. And two surgeries in 8 weeks is crazy. And freaking expensive! Am I alone in this? Anybody have a similar experience with a story to tell?

Costco Wedge Pillow

2 comment(s) · Jan 6, 2026, 10:21 PM

This is for anyone who recently had or will have surgery in the near future. My local Costco (Memphis) is selling these wedge pillows for only $30. I recommend this to help sleep and rest comfortably.

Fell and dislocated my shoulder.

7 comment(s) · Jan 6, 2026, 8:17 PM

This morning taking my kids to school I slipped on ice and smashed my right shoulder on the ground. It popped out of place but went back in as I moved to get up. I can’t move my hand over head without hearing horrible crunching noises and severe pain. I had an x ray done and a nurse examined me. The shoulder went back into place and she told me it’s not a tear even though I didn’t have an mri. She did check to see what range of motion I had but how does she knows I didn’t tear it ?

Pain Meds

24 comment(s) · Jan 6, 2026, 6:36 AM

I’m looking at RC repair surgery in a few weeks. I hear/read reports of the post-surgery pain; that trigger some concern for me. I understand that every patient is different and many factors impact one’s pain treatment. For context, I am a recovering drug abuser (46 yrs clean). My past makes me concerned about the length of pain treatment and the meds most likely to be used. I’m 64 yrs old. How have you been treating the post-op and recovery pain? What meds and how far into PT have you needed them? Thanks for the help!

Tendonitis and bursitis recovery + learned pain

1 comment(s) · Jan 6, 2026, 4:26 AM

Want to share this weird story about my recovery from chronic rotator cuff tendonitis and bursitis. I had a shoulder injury that lasted from November 2024 until January 2026. At first diagnosed as bicep tendonitis then later diagnosed way later in September 2025 as Mild supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendinopathy and Subacromial subdeltoid bursopathy. Went to the physio several times over 2025 with some improvement that basically plateaued in October 2025 through December 2025. The pain was never intense or prevented me from doing my life. But it stopped me going to the gym and so had a huge impact on my mental health. It became obsessive for me. I didn’t know when it would get better. It was so frustrating that this minor pain would not completely disappear. I went back to the physio in Jan 2026 and the physio did some tests and basically said that the shoulder was strong and the bursa was completely fine and the pain was basically not real. I had the pain so long my body sent pain signals that didn’t reflect actual damage or injury. Since he told me that it’s like my brain has told the pain it can go away. I put my shoulder into previously painful positions and over time the pain just fades away. I’ve been back at the gym doing push ups and have had no flare ups. Every day the pain gets slightly less and I can put my arm into positions that a few days ago would have caused pain. I’ve got a whole new lease on life. I guess I’m sharing this in case other people with a similar situation can take some hope that their injury might be completely healed and their pain receptors are no longer helping their recovery. I know this isn’t going to be helpful to people with much more serious injuries than me. Anyway. Thought I’d share.

Clothing recommendations wanted

20 comment(s) · Jan 5, 2026, 9:40 PM

I’m having surgery Feb 18th and am looking for recommendation for clothing post op. I live alone and will have to dress myself, which I know is going to be difficult - so I’m hoping for any advice for tops and any tools that people have found helpful. In particular, I need bras I can manage solo. I’m 50/F and I cannot go bra-less. I’ve tried to MacGyver/practice with what I have and it’s just not working. Surgery:  right shoulder arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (infraspinatus), subacromial decompression, distal clavicle excision, and mini open biceps tenodesis.

Re-Tear Infraspinatus footprint tear

2 comment(s) · Jan 5, 2026, 9:41 AM

Ugh original surgery was early May of 2025 to fix high-grade non retracted 21 x 7 mm partial-thickness articular supraspinatus-infraspinatus footprint tear with focal full-thickness extension at the supraspinatus-infraspinatus junction. Surgeon also did the decompression. At 14 weeks out I had zero pain and only when we started working on more stretching I started to feel some pain very similar to the original tear. Below is the MRI result showing the infraspinatus part of the repair was retorn and I now I have bicep split tearing.... I'd like to hear from those who have had revision surgery's and outcome. I see the Dr next week to discuss so any additional questions to ask? Dr said he fixed the labrum tear during the original surgery. IMPRESSION 1. Prior rotator cuff repair with recurrent high-grade articular sided tearing of the anterior infraspinatus at and medial to the footprint measuring 1.6 x 1.5 cm. The repaired supraspinatus tendon is markedly thinned and attenuated with increased signal intensity, but remains in continuity with the greater tuberosity footprint. No muscle atrophy. 2. Curvilinear fluid intensity cleft at the base of the superior labrum which follows the contour of the glenoid and measures up to 9 mm, more pronounced compared to prior study. Given progression and size, a nondisplaced SLAP tear is favored over a sublabral recess. 3. Moderate intra-articular tendinosis of the proximal long biceps with nondisplaced interstitial split tearing of the intraarticular segment. 4. Mild subacromial/subdeltoid bursitis.

Some questions about a rotator cuff injury?

4 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 9:21 PM

Hello! I have an injured rotator cuff, so I have a couple of questions. 1. Do I only do rotator cuff exercises on my injured arm? My other arm does not have an injured cuff, but if I only train the injured one, would that cause an imbalance? 2. Does boxing help with the recovery post-injury, or does it worsen it? 3. How long do you imagine recovery will take?

Return To Work

21 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 9:08 PM

Has anyone who has had surgery not been able to return to work after their surgery? I’m concerned that due to my length of time off work (13 month since my injury. Two extensive surgeries in an 8 month timespan. A lot of things are up in the air. I’m trying to be prepared, but I don’t even know what to prepare for.

Tenodesis - nearly 2 years post op - anyone else have smaller arms?

2 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 8:38 PM

Don't want to get into the details of my surgery / procedure but just want to discuss the tenodesis. I had a subpectoral biceps tenodesis, and i was told there might be a popeye deformity. Thought that's fine, but 1.5 years post op and going back to the gym at 28 and gaining all my strength back my right arm looks nerfed and feels / looks smaller compared to pre op. Why? Anyone else in a similar boat? I feel like my muscle is pulled too much towards my chest if that makes sense. My arm is noticably smaller...it sucks

Post op expectations

36 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 6:48 PM

I know all heal differently, but being 8 weeks post op from rotator cuff surgery, I still can't raise my right arm. I'm going to PT 2x a week (when they don't cancel on me) and trying to do my own at home. But I'm honestly concerned I won't be able to return to work (medical field) in 5 weeks, I'm constantly using my right arm to perform tests on patients. I can barely raise it high enough to turn on a light switch.

Sling weaning, first night without

21 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 1:37 PM

Got the ok at nearly 5 weeks to start weaning, at home.. And after 2 days decided to try sleeping with this pillow, which has been my constant companion. Worked great...until I got up. Very stiff this morning and feeling petulant, But maybe to be expected? So back to sling for a while til things, calm down, then do a few hours out again. Should I assume the stiffneas is just the price of the weaning process?

Clinical trials for a potential non-surgical treatment might be coming for joint injuries

0 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 1:01 PM

Hi, There was an article link posted on a different subreddit about treatments for joint pain, injuries and osteoarthritis to help regrow the cartilage without using stem cells. Apparently it already passed clinical trials for a use-case to help restore muscle, and they're working on setting up phase 1 or 2 clinical trials for a cartilage restoration study. It could potentially replace surgery for ACL and other joint injuries for better recovery. Here's the article, and its associated medical paper for you to see for yourselves. I know the article title is a bit out there, but the idea that our pain could be properly addressed in the near future is too great for me not to share this with all of you. It could happen very soon if it gets that FDA breakthrough designation. [https://scitechdaily.com/anti-aging-injection-regrows-knee-cartilage-and-prevents-arthritis/](https://scitechdaily.com/anti-aging-injection-regrows-knee-cartilage-and-prevents-arthritis/) (January 3, 2026) [https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adx6649](https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adx6649) \- Inhibition of 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase promotes cartilage regeneration (27 Nov 2025)

Shoulder pain after push ups

26 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 11:15 AM

I used to regularly practice calisthenics (push ups, pullups, chin ups etc). Around 8-9 months back, I started experiencing shoulder/arm pain (exactly in the highlighted area in the image). I consulted orthos, physios, took anti inflammatory meds and did stretches that they prescribed but nothing worked. Once I stopped upper body workouts the pain also stopped. However I recently resumed push ups and I'm again experiencing the same pain. The pain is like a throbbing sensation, and triggers the day after a push ups workout (no sharp pain during workouts). What could be the cause? Anyone who went through the same pain, how did you resolve it?

Well, here I go

10 comment(s) · Jan 4, 2026, 1:38 AM

Did this to myself on Halloween: 1. Massive retracted rotator cuff tear involving the insertions of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons 2. Longitudinal tear of the biceps tendon with tenosynovitis. 3. Diffuse labral tears. There is a large joint effusion communicating to the subacromial/subdeltoid bursa. Arthroscopic debridement, RC repair, and tenodesis coming up this week. Thankfully, my surgeon is a well regarded sports medicine doc. I am a drummer and quite anxious about my recovery!

19M - Persistent arm/shoulder burning & fatigue after lifting injury, Slap tear? Absolutely wrecked my life

10 comment(s) · Jan 3, 2026, 9:58 PM

Just to be clear, I've already consulted more than one professional and in the process of seeing more. At the time I was 19, very active, and play college soccer. I’ve lifted consistently for about a year (5 days on, 2 days off). About 8 months ago, during a phase where I was lifting heavy (bench, overhead press, etc.), i definitely overloaded myself, I was ripped but I got ahead of myself I guess? I felt like I may have tweaked my shoulders at one point while bench pressing? Or it just felt so unstable like I count keep up the weight. It was painful at the time, but I ignored it day by day and kept training. It's good to note that I never ego lift whatsoever, and I always make sure my form is correct. But I'm not sure how or where it went wrong exactly. Over time it gradually worsened. Then one day I woke up and couldn’t even brush my teeth without intense burning and fatigue in the front of my shoulder/bicep area. It felt like my arm needed to rest immediately, almost like it was shutting down. Overhead movement or pulling my arm away from my body made it worse. I assumed it was a typical injury, so I stopped lifting completely for a couple of months. It never got better. At first, I had limited range of motion, which slowly improved over \\\\\\\~3 months. However, the burning, fatigue, and heaviness never went away. I’ve just built tolerance to it. My right arm is better than my left, but symptoms are still present especially with overhead activity or abduction. This has absolutely wrecked my quality of life. Tests & imaging so far: \\\\-EMG/NCS: Normal \\\\\\\\-Cervical spine MRI: Normal \\\\\\\\-Shoulder MRI ( no contrast ) only a rounded acronym + X-ray: Normal I'm aware the imaging should've been with contrast but the doctor ordered that way No tears, no nerve damage, nothing structural. Insurance delays alone took months. Doctors & PT: PT and PCP eventually labeled it bicep tendonitis (which makes no sense to me) and was aware of it as it was taking a crazy toll on me mentally and physically. Earlier I was told it would “just resolve.” It hasn’t. I’m seeing an orthopedist soon, but I’m honestly losing confidence that anyone will figure this out. Current symptoms: \-Burning/fatigue in front shoulder & biceps \-Arm feels heavy and weak with use \-Worse overhead or when arms are away from body \- dead arm after continuous use or overhead \- laying against my body weight around the shoulder area is really uncomfortable and feels wrong, like doing a side plank puts bad pressure on elbow-up area and it hurts, it's like presssure it's odd. At this point, I feel stuck in a loop every day with no answers. I’ve done everything I was told to do, and nothing explains why a healthy, active 19 year-old can’t use his arm normally. Could this be a slap injury? This is the first time I'm aware of such injury and symptoms match. Or a rotator cuff damage ? Even tho mri was clean?

How successful is supraspinatus repair for weight-lifters?

8 comment(s) · Jan 3, 2026, 12:56 PM

I've got a partial tear with minimal symptoms day to day other than when I bench-press and it may eventually lead to surgery of conservative rehab treatment doesn't work. But I've also been reading on various forums that for weight-lifters this is not a great option and that the repair often tears within a 2 year period. I don't lift super heavy or do cleans etc. Just regular bench and OHP. Is this a viable next step in the future or is it time for me to dial back on the lifting? Thanks.

Can't lift my arm anymore

11 comment(s) · Jan 3, 2026, 10:28 AM

This has been a 2 year struggle. Cortisone shots did nothing. Anyone have something similar?? MRI Severe downsloping of the acromion with some osteophyte formation along the undersurface and prominence of the coracoacromial ligament. This is consistent with impingement.

partial Labral tear

13 comment(s) · Jan 3, 2026, 5:27 AM

Hi everyone, about 4.5 months ago I badly twisted my arm while cliff diving. Since then, I've had a sharp, stabbing pain in my front shoulder every day; it's deep inside, roughly at the joint. I've already had an MRI and seen several orthopedic surgeons. Last week, an orthopedic surgeon was finally certain what it was: a partial labral tear. Has anyone else experienced this? What tips or exercises are there? I've already tried everything: resting my arm for extended periods, icing it, physical therapy, and various strengthening exercises.

HUGE PROBLEM with Shoulder impingment

0 comment(s) · Jan 2, 2026, 5:53 PM

Tenodesis 2 years later, muscle development?

12 comment(s) · Jan 2, 2026, 2:11 PM

didn’t have rotator cuff surgery, but had a bicep tenodesis on my right shoulder a bit over 2.5 years ago, so maybe this applies as it’s shoulder surgery all the same. I started working out at about the six month just to get some strength back up, but it wasn’t anything I’ve maintained consistently, but I’ve been doing my normal job as a mechanic and all the things I used to do without any restrictions with my right shoulder, but when I look in the mirror, I can still tell the entire right side of my upper body has a lot less muscle mass than my left. my right pectoral is considerable smaller, shoulder, arm, everything. I thought after a year and a half or so of normal life and normal job the muscles would have balanced by now, is there a reason my right side is so under developed compared to my left still? honestly, it looks embarrassing to me.

Surgery or no? (Have ortho consult already).

3 comment(s) · Jan 2, 2026, 1:42 PM

Alright just getting opinions here, I Injured myself skiing and dislocated my shoulder for the first time. I have an orthopedic consult, and PT scheduled, however I'm afraid the ortho will simply say "You need surgery" without any real discussion......... X ray was negative, MRI results are as follows: "RADIOLOGY REPORT CLINICAL HISTORY: Patient presenting with pain in the right shoulder, status post injury on 12-19- 2025. TECHNIQUE: Multiplanar, multisequence MR imaging of the right shoulder was performed. COMPARISON: None. FINDINGS: There is ill-defined PDFS hyperintensity along the articular surface of the acromioclavicular joint with T2 hyperintense fluid collection and capsular thickening, consistent with joint arthrosis. Marrow edema/bone contusion is noted in the greater tuberosity. The remainder of the articular cartilage and glenoid labrum are normal. No evidence of joint dislocation or subluxation is seen. The visualized bones demonstrate normal contour and MR signal. There is evidence of a partial-thickness undersurface tear in the distal supraspinatus tendon near its insertion, involving approximately 50% of the tendon width. No tendon retraction is identified. Subtle T2 hyperintensity is present in the infraspinatus tendon without obvious irregularity, consistent with a partial-thickness tear/sprain. The remaining rotator cuff tendons demonstrate normal signal and morphology. Periarticular muscles and ligaments are normal, with preserved intermuscular fat planes. The biceps-labral complex appears normal. T2 hyperintense fluid along the long head of the biceps and subscapularis tendons is consistent with tenosynovitis. The neurovascular bundle is unremarkable. IMPRESSION: 1. Marrow edema/bone contusion in the greater tuberosity. 2. Partial-thickness tear involving approximately 50% of the supraspinatus tendon. 3. Partial-thickness tear/sprain in the infraspinatus tendon 4. Tenosynovitis of the long head of the biceps and subscapularis tendons 5. Acromioclavicular joint sprain. 6. Findings are consistent with acute/subacute injury. Clinical correlation is recommended." Any advice/experience notes are welcome :) Thanks

ROTATOR CUFF PROTOCOL (RCP) BY TENDON RX

4 comment(s) · Jan 2, 2026, 12:55 PM

Hi Everyone, my name is Byron C Miller III. Byron is fine. I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and specialize in painful rotator cuffs. There is good evidence that this is often a tendon issue, specifically ROTATOR CUFF TENDINOPATHY. My IG is TENDONRX. I have found great success treating painful shoulders (200+ cases), even with partial RTC tears using very few exercises and progressing them very methodically over 3-4 months. In an effort to help more people, and provide a low cost solution, I made a ROTATOR CUFF PROTOCOL (RCP) It will be released on Jan 27th. If you would like to get on the waitlist, you can do that now. Waitlist price is $127. [tendonrx.com/rcp-waitlist](http://tendonrx.com/rcp-waitlist) https://preview.redd.it/3fqjxevt5zag1.jpg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e589fac922439cb5e0ee2c5c766ec8eaaf2e70fb https://preview.redd.it/cb2klfvt5zag1.jpg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=93aa90b971898cbaf6a571b16bc62f5f5d92add3 If you are dealing with rotator cuff pain, I am very sorry, and I made this for you. I hope it will help you, and I hope it will help many others. Happy New Year!! https://preview.redd.it/lc7xmodib0bg1.png?width=1080&format=png&auto=webp&s=270e67e6ccf3541fcdd59ff72b2bdebf3859e2e3

The fear of tearing repair week 1-6

12 comment(s) · Jan 2, 2026, 1:49 AM

I will keep this short. I'm terrified that I have f***** u* my repair. Day after surgery, I stepped on my cat and jumped. It hurt. Week two I tripped and caught myself without actually falling, that hurt too. Caught some plane turbulence during holiday travel. Two days ago I tripped in a similar fashion as the first, ran the back of my sling into a car I was walking past, and stapped on a strap of a bag I was carrying that put pressure on the shoulder as I kept walking. To top off two days ago I threw out my lower left back causing guarding that put extra tension on my right surgical shoulder. I've spent yesterday depressed a s*** that I f***** u* my surgery. Today i'm feeling better. I had a biceps tendonesis and graft. To all of you out there, have any of you messed up your repairs?

Scar tissue (?) causing issues 3 1/2 months out

0 comment(s) · Jan 1, 2026, 10:50 PM

I had rotator cuff surgery on 9/16 for a small full supraspinatus tear, two larger partial tears, and a labrum tear. I also had RC surgery on the other shoulder last year (fell down the stairs and tore both shoulders). As I’ve been working through my recovery and PT, I’ve been experiencing an increasing sensation under / at the bottom of my shoulder blade and also sometimes on the front of my shoulder around that incision spot: it feels like my muscles (or something) are rubbing/rippling over something, sort of like when you run a stick over a xylophone or pluck both lines of a stretched-out rubber band. It happens when I move my arm back and forth in a way that engages the back of my shoulder; it’s not painful at the start of the day, but it gets more uncomfortable and becomes painful the more active I am (when I do my PT exercises, if I’m using my arm my to do household chores or at work). My PT said it’s probably scar tissue; she was going to request approval for dry acupuncture from my surgeon and workers comp to try to break it up, but I’ve been waiting on WC to renew my PT orders for over three weeks so I haven’t been back to be able to ask her about it. It does seem to be getting worse instead of better, probably because I’m trying to do more. I don’t remember this sensation from the other surgery experience at all. Is this familiar to anyone, and if so, what did you do about it? I’m definitely finding myself avoiding doing exercises and movements that irritate it because it takes icing and resting it to recover enough to be able to use my arm much, and I’m sort of stuck on what to do. I did see my surgeon on 12/19, but it wasn’t as painful then as it is now so I didn’t press it after I mentioned it and he just kind of said “oh yeah? Huh…” Thanks for your help!

Anyone with similar MRI results?

7 comment(s) · Jan 1, 2026, 10:40 PM

I’ve been dealing with shoulder issues in my left shoulder for about 2 years. Improvements seen with rest, worsens with activity (both gym and work as a vet tech). Ortho was highly suspect of distal clavicular osteolysis which got my symptoms. MRI showed distal clavicular osteolysis, mild Supraspinatus tendinitis and posterior labral tear with stripping. Any similar injuries out there and how are you dealing?

Sling came off (part time and no block at least) 6 weeks out. My first go at guitar.

2 comment(s) · Jan 1, 2026, 1:32 PM

Welp I’ve lost ground with some technique but nothing I won’t get back pretty quickly. Just glad I can play a little again!! It’s been killing me. May have to use the foam block at night as this a.m. was a tad rough for a while but I guess that is recovery. Supraspinatus RC right shoulder and SAD. Posting because so many people come for some assurance you won’t become a rock of inability, and musicians might be extra freaked out about surgery and what it means.

Any natural athletes (bodybuilding, calisthenics) that managed to return to sport after biceps tenodesis surgery?

21 comment(s) · Jan 1, 2026, 7:51 AM

31 year old male here. The gym was my life for over 10 years, where I mostly did calisthenics and had periods of bodybuilding training as well, untill I acutely injured my shoulder almost 3 years ago during a lift gone wrong in the gym. After a wrong diagnosis, got diagnosed with biceps tendinopathy, possibly healed partial tear of the long head of biceps tendon. I've done everything for this injury allready. 2 years of dedicated rehab at a sports PT while eating high in protein, supplementing with collagen. Shockwave sessions at the hospital, and a single ultrasound guided cortisone injection. All with zero improvement in the pain in my shoulder. Yes I've managed to put on some muscle again by doing the PT and returning carefully to some regular gym work and callisthenics, but at the cost of a daily nagging shoulder. After each rehab session and regular training session my shoulder is inflamed. I got proposed biceps tenodesis surgery, yet other opinions told me the biceps actually looks good still (had an additional MRI which showed a good looking biceps tendon, both the extra atricular as the intra-articular portion. And a 'good' attachment at the labrum.) I can't handle this anymore after 3 years. Like I can't even carry grocery bags without pain or reach up to pick something high up from the shelve. So yes I feel tempted to do the surgery. I've looked up some testimonies on Youtube of bodybuilders on recovery, only to see these people were using steroids / growth hormone / peptides to actively enhance their recovery ( were actively talking about this). I would not do such thing ever. So I wanted to ask if there are any natural athletes here that returned to sport after biceps tenodesis surgery? Greets and best wishes for 2026 to all.

Any idea what I’m in for?

38 comment(s) · Dec 31, 2025, 8:56 PM

Tl/DR “There is full-thickness, near-complete tear of the supraspinatus tendon. There is full-thickness tearing of the superior fibers of the infraspinatus.” Tore myself up to another day. Just got the results from my MRI, Dr appointment next Thursday. Any insight as to what I’m going to be looking at? Thanks for the replies.

Does anyone get more than an hour or so of sleep at a time? Advice?

36 comment(s) · Dec 31, 2025, 6:20 PM

Hi, I’m 4 weeks post surgery for complete supraspinatus tear with allograft, spurs, etc. During the day I’m fine. Pain is minimal at this point except for PT, and I’m using the sling while sleeping and when out of the house. I’m sleeping in a recliner and on a couch with pillows. I just ordered a wedge pillow and curved body pillow to try and get back in my bed. Good sleep simply will not come and I’m at the edge of sanity each night. I’m up and down 10 times a night and lucky to get 60-90 minutes of sleep at any one time. I will finally get a couple hours more or less interupted at the end due to shear exhaustion. All night I will either wake up with the arm sore from being in one position or I wake up restless from a combo of mild pain and just body soreness from not being in a bed. Is this just the way things are for the foreseeable future, or does it get better soon? My only saving grace is that I’m recently retired. If I had to get up and go to work and be intelligent all week it’d be game over.

Frustrated

3 comment(s) · Dec 31, 2025, 5:05 PM

I was in a Uber heading home from work and was in a 3 car accident…soft tissue injuries and shoulder pain which resulted in 21 sessions of PT after that didn’t help thru a MRI it was discovered that I had a Traumatic Complete Rotator Cuff Tear that requires surgery…I found this out a week before Thanksgiving.. Told them I wanted my surgery right after Christmas now here comes a pause .. my surgeon tells me my attorney cancelled my surgery… I immediately reached out to my team and my case manager tells me she don’t see any cancellation it’s possible that they’re waiting on the other person insurance company to give policy limits to see if my case could afford it … ln btwn this I had to quit a new second job I jist started because of worsening symptoms my dr restricted me from pushing pulling and lifting 10lb and no overhead reach and because I thought my surgery was gonna happen I notified my other job and they released me until further notice.. so now i’m sitting here like a sitting duck ..,has anyone else been in this situation waiting on clearance to have surgery ?

Pendulums suddenly hurting

9 comment(s) · Dec 31, 2025, 11:33 AM

Has anyone else experienced their pendulums suddenly starting to hurt when they didn't before? I'm at week four and they've never bothered me and now my forearm feels like I'm pulling it to pieces. Thanks

RC repair/Adhesive capsulitis surgery

10 comment(s) · Dec 31, 2025, 10:20 AM

My 55 year old husband is having RC repair/frozen shoulder surgery next week and the anxiety has been challenging. I am trying to help prepare the best I can; rented an ice machine, recliner, purchased a supply of baggy clothes, pillows, wedge, slip on shoes, etc. His doctor wants PT 2 days post op to prevent frozen shoulder from returning. Any advice would be greatly appreciated:)

Fireman’s arm crushed

5 comment(s) · Dec 30, 2025, 5:48 PM

Yes, I have an appointment with an my ortho this week(previously used) so I feel comfortable going to him. Long story short, 38yo M. Active, healthy, other than a torn calf, no major injuries. Fireman (this is why I’ve put it off). Injury is to my right, dominant side. Was playing keeper in a semi competitive coed league with my wife, dove for a ball, landed on shoulder and injured it. Arm was under me not extended. (Ok not really crushed).Next day couldn’t raise it. RICE implement (big in our house with 2 boys also). NSAIDS, no strenuous activity. Had shift 3 days later, was able to raise arm almost all the way, weakness and pain when overhead lifting. This was 4ish weeks ago. And has improved drastically though still lingering. Pain is manageable during the day, still have weakness and soreness through out the day. ROM is probably 90%. Sleeping is so-so. The only time I wake up from “pain” is when I end up on my back and my arm is flat. I can lay on that side with minimal discomfort. The pain is mid shoulder, that radiates down entire arm. Laying in a recliner, I cannot have my arm extended down the side of body, it burns. I can pick things up, turn a steering wheel (luckily I’m a driver) put clothes on, etc. but I can still feel a “pull” but not really pain. I cannot pinpoint my pain, and I feel relief when putting pressure on the muscle/tendon/whatever it is. Like full, 100% relief. It’s weird. Only sharp pain I have is when I pull back fast (think blankets over your body) but that’s few and far between. Everything from my neck to elbow feels tight and I relief when stretching. Still hard to do push ups and press anything. Looking for similar experiences.

Anybody 10-12 wks post surgery with advice!

13 comment(s) · Dec 30, 2025, 10:26 AM

Superior labrum: Completely detached with significant inflammation to the attached biceps tendon Biceps tendon: Significant inflammation with displacement of the superior labrum Anterior labrum: Absent/Buford complex Inferior labrum: Intact Axillary pouch: Intact and empty of loose bodies Posterior labrum: Intact Subscapularis: Tearing of the upper insertion Articular supraspinatus: High-grade partial-thickness tearing Articular infraspinatus: Intact Bursa: Significantly inflamed and vascular Acromion: Impinging laterally Bursal supraspinatus: Intact Bursal infraspinatus: Intact xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx I’m a 60 yr old female who is 8 wks post surgery. Therapy went well right from beginning.. it felt incredible to be stretched, she said your arm can’t go any further. All range of motion was successful her doing it. 6wk sling removed slept in bed, finally! Now time for more aggressive therapy. Which I was excited for! (I had both knees replaced I absolutely worked hard with therapy for them) you get out what you put in! I’m having a hard time with pulley over door, and bands. It’s very painful during at home therapy. I medicate an hour before and ice right after. Honestly I’m using more meds now than after surgery! I absolutely follow all the do’s and dont’s I follow surgeons and therapists rules. But this truly is painful raising arm upwards I’m at 100 degrees side outwards 100 behind my back well I can reach back pocket, that one is tough and tight, I’m afraid to push that. I’m using my operated arm more now, as the rules apply, coffee cup, eating. I am now washing supper plates and silverware, glasses. I do not want to re-injure! But this last week as badly as I wanted out of the sling I want to put it back on! The past 3 nights I went back to the recliner! My elbow hurts all the time.I’m hoping for some Insight from those of you who are 10-12 wks out as my 8 wks is hopefully still fresh in your minds. I see surgeon at 12 wks to which he would like to see full range of motion. I’m a lil scared, nervous, excited, exhausted. Therapist says you will notice improvement each week. Not so much this week.. Thanks for sticking with me with my long winded post!

Is my mind playing tricks on me?

2 comment(s) · Dec 30, 2025, 6:58 AM

Some backstory: I did a mud run back in October with my husband and kids. Lots of falling, flopping, crawling, pulling, pushing, etc. I felt fine after and there wasn't a specific incident that I felt like I injured myself. But 2 days later when I went to the gym I couldn't really do anything with my right arm. Sharp pain started whenever I raised it over my head or behind my back. I thought I just had some delayed sore muscle and took a break for a week or so but it never got better. Now in December, its just getting worse so I'm finally not in denial about it and have an appt next Friday with ortho. But just wanted to see if anybody has experienced periods of time where it "feels fine" then you feel like oh good its getting better just for it to be bad again a few hours later? Im pretty good about ignoring my body and being in denial about injuries lol!

Post op

24 comment(s) · Dec 29, 2025, 9:26 PM

Having full torn rotator cuff/torn labrum surgery in a week. Whats the first few hours after waking up going to feel like?

How to know if orthopedic surgeon is telling the truth about needing surgery

40 comment(s) · Dec 29, 2025, 9:16 PM

An interesting thing happened when I got my MRI. The doctor or technician that did the MRI put notes in my online chart that the hospital uses for documentation... the note said I had a partial tear in my rotator cuff/shoulder. After seeing the orthopedic surgeon/doctor he said that the tendon was tore off the bone and will not heal without surgery. Later, when I went back to look at the notes, they were changed to say complete tear from the bone and they had the orthopedic surgeon's name on the Notes, but I know that's not what they originally said. I canceled the surgery that I had scheduled for December 16 of 2025 due to my work saying they will put me on leave for only up to 12 weeks with no pay and if I went to the unemployment office to get unemployment I would not be able to come back to the job. The surgeon was saying I would be out for four months. Anybody know if an orthopedic surgeon would be deceitful in what I should do about it?

MRI Results - Good? Bad? No big deal?

14 comment(s) · Dec 29, 2025, 7:03 PM

IMPRESSION: 1. Marked tendinosis of supraspinatus with interstitial tearing and mild to moderate tendinosis of subscapularis and infraspinatus. 2. Mild to moderate tenosynovitis of the long head of the biceps brachii. 3. Marked acromioclavicular osteoarthropathy causing subacromial impingement and edematous changes of the supraspinatus musculotendinous junction. 4. Early glenohumeral osteoarthropathy with humeral head subcortical cystic changes and mild effusion. 5. Mild to moderate subcoracoid-subscapularis bursitis.

Insurance denied Acromioplasty?

1 comment(s) · Dec 29, 2025, 4:02 PM

Hey there. After 4 years of intense calcific tendonitis pain in my left shoulder, I finally had my arthroscopic debridement and subacromial decompression on 12/22. Somehow, I opened a piece of mail the day after surgery, date on the letter was 12/12 (not sure if it had JUST arrived or just missed the mail on my counter) and it was my health insurance denying the subacromial decompression portion. The debridement was fine. When I checked out the handbook of covered conditions and what JUSTIFIES treatments and surgeries for this, it was very limiting. Stuff like a break not healing right, or an abnormal anatomical situation. There was a total of 3 approved reasons and at least at first glance, impingement was not one of them. Anyways, anyone have issues getting this approved, or going through an appeal process? My impingement was severe, and alongside the calcific tendonitis I was completely unable to lift my left arm laterally with zero weight. I couldn't "empty a can" by turning my hand while extending it out. It was bad. I figured it would justify it, but I anticipate this will be a struggle to get it approved.

Concerned I ruined my repair

14 comment(s) · Dec 29, 2025, 12:48 PM

I had a right rotator cuff revision in Nov 2025. It went well and I was slinged up for four weeks. The day I graduated from the sling, I was driving, and someone swerved into my lane in front of me. My right arm shot up to right below shoulder level and pain immediately forced in down. The actual repair site didn't hurt, but my entire supraspinatus muscle was hurting and very tender. I iced and did passive PT over the next few days and it felt somewhat better. What's concerning me is that the post-op stiffness has almost completely gone away. There's still some, but it's over 75% less that when I got the sling off five days ago. The repair site doesn't hurt, but my arm below the repair aches when I let it hang passively like a nerve is being compressed, my other rotator cuff muscles feel crampy and contracted all the time--lots of trigger points. I had a rotator cuff repair on the left in 2023, and although the crampiness and weakness didn't really let up until i was able to do some strength building with isometrics and bands, the stiffness never went away even close to this fast. It took about 3-4 weeks to really loosen up. I definitely want to address this with PT and my surgeon. I guess I'm just asking if anyone has had a similar experience or has any valuable input.

Is this lack of sleep normal for where I’m at in my recovery?

9 comment(s) · Dec 29, 2025, 3:35 AM

Hi guys, I’m 11 weeks out from supraspinatus and labrum (both full) tear repair surgery on my non dominant arm. I am still struggling with sleep… getting to sleep is fine but from about 3am I’m waking several times in discomfort to pain. I’m ok at getting back to sleep after but it’s just frustrating. Pain meds not helpful as it’s so far after I get to sleep they’ve worn off. Plus in the UK strongest I can get is paracetamol/ibruprofen for it which won’t touch the pain anyway. I’ve always been a back sleeper so that part isn’t new. Surgeon, osteo and physio say otherwise my progress is really strong and beyond on track and that the sleep is just something I have to ride out. Can anyone with a similar experience shed some light on if this is normal and when they started sleeping through the night?

Had mild to moderate rotator cuff pain

0 comment(s) · Dec 29, 2025, 12:10 AM

What I found helped me a lot was Aspercreme odor free Lidocaine Patches. Fred Meyer and Amazon has them for cheap. Pack of 3 for $3-4. By day 2, pain subsided.

Reverse shoulder replacement pain

0 comment(s) · Dec 28, 2025, 7:46 PM

Anyone use the Velpeau immobilizer to sleep?

4 comment(s) · Dec 28, 2025, 5:03 PM

I wanted to try sleeping with a softer sling, the Velpeau. I rolled up a towel to simulate the abductor pillow, and felt really good lying down...alas woke up 4 hours later with aching upper arm. Realized the elbow position was too close to body, so switched back to my huge Donjoy pro ( which I will be in for 6 weeks) and it immediately felt better. I realized I can attach the pillow from a similar sling to the Velpeau, so might try again...and I have a text in to my surgeon, but thought someone here might have tried this. I am only at barely 4 weeks, and don't want to mess things up! [https://www.velpeau.com/product/arm-sling-shoulder-immobilizer-enhanced?srsltid=AfmBOopFb1a-GOEB-spKkrb5klnH9tIAv1PWVLGd\_Mo1wi2hz27OdGtn](https://www.velpeau.com/product/arm-sling-shoulder-immobilizer-enhanced?srsltid=AfmBOopFb1a-GOEB-spKkrb5klnH9tIAv1PWVLGd_Mo1wi2hz27OdGtn)

no insurance til 1/1/26- rotator cuff pain just got much worse.

26 comment(s) · Dec 28, 2025, 12:16 PM

61,yo newly retired since September. Fed up with the repetitive motion work in the hospital lab but had only some weakness in shoulder. Then, pain set in a month ago. couldn't lift arm above eye level.couldn't reach around back without a deep burning sensation. Points towards rotator cuff tear.Been working in hospital my whole life so of course I don't want surgery.Did the El Paso physical therapy exercises with shrugs for the past few weeks, didnt see much improvement so I ramped up the repetitions over this past week(3excercises 5x per day & have had in a sling in between) and then suddenly yesterday the pain has gotten much, much worse like 7/10. No arm position is comfortable even in sling. I did introduce some shoulder rolls yesterday per Dr. Peng YT vid but that's the only change. Have had a heating pad on it and taking 1000mg Tylenol 4x per day. Mitigates the excruciating pain but only for about 4hours. I've stopped the exercises. Any thoughts to get through this time until the insurance starts and can see an Ortho Dr? No mri yet .

MRI Report-Left Shoulder

0 comment(s) · Dec 28, 2025, 9:55 AM