2 years post op: zero issues

2 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 8:19 PM

Hi there. Folks usually don’t post here after they get better so I figured I’d do that. I just passed my 2 year anniversary of my rotator cuff surgery (partially torn supraspinatus). I have zero issues at the 2 year mark. All my soreness went away around the 18 month mark and even then it was minor. I’m serving tennis balls at a high level and throwing a football and baseball, no problem. That’s not to say my recovery was not rough. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. And it was brutal. Best of luck to you all. I have a different surgery coming up for a different body part. Fun times :)

Right shoulder surgery question

1 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 8:14 PM

I had right dominant arm shoulder surgery for an impingement syndrome in 1989 when I was in army and it failed to alleviate the pain I was having at the time. I am 59 year old male and have had issues progressively get worse as I have gotten older. Can the shoulder surgery I had 37 years ago progress over a long period of time into cervical neck pain and degenerative disc disease for overcompensating for the pain? I also have been diagnosed with radiculopathy in both arms mild for left arm and moderate for dominant arm. Thank you for any information

Both shoulder MR arthrogram on the same day

2 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 7:21 PM

The radiography scheduler made it seem like no big deal. How bad is it, and can I drive after or should I have someone drive me?

Surgery was today - dominant arm

2 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 6:17 PM

Nerve block did not work My insurance is holding my tramadol rx but did approve oxy - go figure. The ice machine is saving me. Depends for the win! In the recliner about to crash

Brace for big arms?

0 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 2:09 PM

I have a SLAP tear and was told to get a rotator cuff brace but all the one size fits all ones I've found don't go all the way over my large arms as a plus size woman. I'm a size 16 but have disproportionately large upper arms, which are probably closer to a size 20. Have any other larger people found a brace they like? I'm also open to a dual shoulder brace.

Anyone recover from a shoulder injury this severe? (Greater tuberosity fracture + cuff repair + labrum + early arthritis)

2 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 1:12 PM

Partial Rotator cuff tear

0 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 12:59 PM

Hi everyone, I’m currently pregnant (first trimester) and dealing with a recurring shoulder problem that’s making it really hard to sleep. Earlier this year, an MRI showed a partial rotator cuff tear. I received a steroid injection in mid February, and then did physical therapy for about 2 months. I was making really good progress and my pain had improved significantly. Unfortunately, my shoulder pain came back around May. Because of several scheduling issues, I ended up missing most of my PT sessions in June, so I haven’t been consistent with therapy. Now the pain is back to the point where I can’t comfortably raise my arm to the side or overhead, and sleeping has become miserable. I’m a side sleeper, and the shoulder pain wakes me up multiple times a night. My PT clinic told me I need to see my orthopedic doctor again because my insurance wants a new referral and documentation showing that continued PT is medically necessary. Has anyone gone through something similar during pregnancy? Did you continue PT, or was there anything else that helped with the pain and sleep? I’m trying to avoid medications and just looking for safe options until I can get back to my orthopedist. I’d really appreciate hearing your experiences. Thank you!

Nondisplaced fracture to greater tuberosity - implications for rotator cuff/surgery?

0 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 12:55 PM

I sustained a fall this weekend and have a nondisplaced fracture to my greater tuberosity, and have an orthopedic follow-up later this week. See x-ray reading here: >FINDINGS/IMPRESSION: >Nondisplaced fracture involving the greater tuberosity which extends distally to the proximal humeral metaphysis. No dislocation. >Acromioclavicular and glenohumeral joints are preserved without significant degenerative change or erosion. No MRI yet, but suspect that will be done to determine extent of damage. Generally, does the nondisplaced element of the fracture bode well for findings re: my rotator cuff? I had a labral repair surgery to my other shoulder ~10ish years ago, and that process is not something I think I am ready to go through again. Thanks for any thoughts.

Surgery or wait

1 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 12:43 PM

I tore my labrum in July 2025. Slap tear but they didnt really tell me much about how bad it was or what clock positions my tear is in. At first my shoulder kept feeling like it would fall out all the time. Then that stopped and it just hurt all the time. Then i went to physical therapy and that made it so much worse. I was in pain constantly. Stopped doing PT and surgeon said i should get a bicep tenodesis. I agreed because i couldnt throw over head or use my arm normally. I have postponed the surgery a couple times due to lack of support at home with a new baby. Since postponing this last time, i feel like my shoulder is actually kind of livable. I havent been doing any of the things i used to do since i have a new baby (Jiu Jitsu, sports, rough housing). Im kind of house bound so maybe that is why it is hurting less. I still wake up with arm pain and cant sleep on my side but i can throw a ball and pick up objects that arent too heavy without pain. Im starting to second guess needing surgery. I know it isnt healed but im scared i will end up with a shoulder that is worse off than i currently have, after surgery. The idea of detaching my bicep head and attaching it somewhere else seems like a big step. Any advice? Has anyone seconded guessed surgery but are happy they went through with it? Does it sound like i need surgery still? Is telling my surgeon any of this worth it? They are all kind of dense and flippant.

Injured my shoulder after a fall,advice/tips/experience sharing needed

3 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 10:03 AM

Good afternoon everyone,I had a fall months ago while playing football and it got my shoulder injured and I had tried ways to heal it but now the pain is still there. I would describe the symptoms as if I lift my arm overhead even without any weight,I feel pain afterwards,dullache or sharp pain.I don’t know what is wrong as I am broke and cannot afford PT or doctors.I have rested a week and felt better but then once I start to continue my workout routine,I feel pain/dullache or weakness from my shoulder.Honestly,this shouldn’t have happen as working out is a lot more important to me then a football game and I really regret falling down.Would not have this problem if I avoided going to play football,now my routine is affected.What should I do,advice/experince and tips really needed.

Anika Integrity Implant (patch)

0 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 6:52 AM

Last week I had my rotator cuff repaired with the Anika Integrity Patch. I haven’t seen many post with people just having a patch repair without either it being part of a full rotator cuff repair or having additional bicep tenodesis so I figured I’d post my journey so far. I tore my dominate arm rotator cuff after a snowboarding accident last February. MRI showed Partial-thickness rotator cuff tear of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus of at least 60–70% or more. My surgeon said that since nothing else seemed damaged, I’m young (39 F) and it was a clean acute tear I’d be a great candidate for a patch repair. He described it like sod - adding a patch over the tear to generate new tendon growth and adding stability to the injury. That was the only procedure he was doing, pending no surprises once he got in there. I was told that I would be in a sling for less than a week (mostly because of the nerve block) and recovery would be a lot faster than traditional rotator cuff repair. I am cleared to go back to work after 1 week (work from home / desk work / no driving or physical activity) During surgery they found some other things they cleaned up as well \- Debridement of labrum from 3:00 to 10:00 \- removal of bursa \-debridement of the cuff \-removal of inflamed tissue \-lysis of adhesions \-Subacromial decompression (bone shaving) to relieve impingement I was having a really hard time believing I would only be in a sling for 2-4 days but it’s day 6 and I spent almost all of yesterday sling free. I kept the sling on through out the duration of the nerve block (about 48 hrs) and for a day or so after that. I’ve been sleeping in it and propped up so I don’t accidentally do something in my sleep. My post op instructions said I could shower and let my arm hang as of day 2. I’ve been doing my pendulum swings and letting my arm hang to my side (right now options are dangle or sling) when not in sling or supported on the couch. It felt so great being able to bend my elbow after two days. I’ve been good with icing my shoulder and have had minimal bruising. (Ice machine is the best thing I’ve learned from this sub) I’ve been on top of pain meds ( ibuprofen and acetaminophen) and only needed the good stuff once the other night. Pain hasn’t been terribly mostly just some discomfort. Anytime I leave the house I will be wearing the sling just to protect my arm. I have my post op next week and looking forward to starting PT. So far I feel pretty good and will update when I have more info to share. Very thankful for this sub for educating and helping me prepare for surgery.

How long off work

8 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 4:55 AM

I had a subacromial decompression and a general tidy up and 2 rotator cuff repairs, one was quite large. I work as a high school teacher and the holidays end about 1.5 weeks after my surgery. How have others gone with return to work in a moderately physical occupation? *edit I have some anchors .. surgeon didn't say how many but he gave me the images and you can see the stitches in both tears. The largest one is in the supraspinatus. Thanks

Shoulder replacement?

2 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 4:39 AM

My right shoulder rear labrum had an extreme tear and was operated on in 2020… well it’s 2026 and my right shoulder now has osteoarthritis, basically bone on bone (doctors words). It’s extremely painful. Doctor is now recommending that I get a shoulder replacement. Has anyone on here ever had a shoulder replacement? What was your experience? I’m worried that I won’t ever be able to build strength weight training with a shoulder replacement. Can you recover your strength with a shoulder replacement? I appreciate any insights.

Shoulder replacement?

0 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 4:39 AM

Still having shoulder pain 9 months after subacromial decompression and AC joint surgery — looking for experiences

4 comment(s) · Jul 7, 2026, 3:33 AM

Hi everyone. I’m looking for experiences from people who had a similar shoulder recovery. I’m a 22-year-old male. I had both shoulders operated on: Right shoulder arthroscopy on October 8, 2025 Left shoulder arthroscopy on February 4, 2026 The procedures were: subacromial decompression / acromioplasty bursectomy partial distal clavicle resection (AC joint decompression) Before surgery I had shoulder impingement syndrome, subacromial bursitis, AC joint problems and tendon issues. After surgery I was told that tendinosis was still present. I am now around 9 months after my first surgery and 5 months after my second one. I still have problems with both shoulders. They often feel hot, irritated and painful, with pressure and aching around the collarbone/AC joint area. Normal activities can trigger symptoms: sitting at a computer, walking a few kilometers, cleaning the house, lifting my arms above 90 degrees, or throwing a frisbee. Since my first surgery I haven’t worked. Most of my days have been quite inactive (sitting or lying down), except for training. I’m wondering if the lack of daily movement could be slowing my recovery. I completed shoulder rehabilitation in good clinics with experienced physiotherapists. I also see a biomechanics trainer once a month, and I follow a gym program created by a functional training coach, focused on strength, mobility and shoulder stability. My MRI still shows tendon changes/tendinosis. Doctors gave different timelines: some said around 3 months for full loading, rehab specialists around 6 months, while another doctor said 12–16 months for full recovery. Has anyone had a similar experience, especially after having both shoulders operated on? When did you start feeling noticeably better? What helped you the most — more daily movement, strengthening, rehab, returning to work, or something else? I would really appreciate hearing your experiences.

Pendulum swings

11 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 6:24 PM

Surgeon demonstrated them today said I should move shoulder back and forth and in small circles. Caregiver at appointment with me confirms that’s what was demonstrated. No PT until next week. Videos I watched said let moving hips back and forth get shoulder to swing. Mistake to move it on your own without body momentum. Totally confused.

Still having shoulder pain 9 months after subacromial decompression and AC joint surgery — looking for experiences

1 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 4:48 PM

Hi everyone. I’m looking for experiences from people who had a similar shoulder recovery. I’m a 22-year-old male. I had both shoulders operated on: Right shoulder arthroscopy on October 8, 2025 Left shoulder arthroscopy on February 4, 2026 The procedures were: subacromial decompression / acromioplasty bursectomy partial distal clavicle resection (AC joint decompression) Before surgery I had shoulder impingement syndrome, subacromial bursitis, AC joint problems and tendon issues. After surgery I was told that tendinosis was still present. I am now around 9 months after my first surgery and 5 months after my second one. I still have problems with both shoulders. They often feel hot, irritated and painful, with pressure and aching around the collarbone/AC joint area. Normal activities can trigger symptoms: sitting at a computer, walking a few kilometers, cleaning the house, lifting my arms above 90 degrees, or throwing a frisbee. Since my first surgery I haven’t worked. Most of my days have been quite inactive (sitting or lying down), except for training. I’m wondering if the lack of daily movement could be slowing my recovery. I completed shoulder rehabilitation in good clinics with experienced physiotherapists. I also see a biomechanics trainer once a month, and I follow a gym program created by a functional training coach, focused on strength, mobility and shoulder stability. My MRI still shows tendon changes/tendinosis. Doctors gave different timelines: some said around 3 months for full loading, rehab specialists around 6 months, while another doctor said 12–16 months for full recovery. Has anyone had a similar experience, especially after having both shoulders operated on? When did you start feeling noticeably better? What helped you the most — more daily movement, strengthening, rehab, returning to work, or something else? I would really appreciate hearing your experiences.

Anyone have a traumatic shoulder dislocation with a full-thickness rotator cuff tear and Bankart lesion? Did you end up needing surgery?

1 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 12:54 PM

I'm 48 and looking to hear from people who have been through something similar. I fell and slammed my shoulder into a refrigerator. Two days later, while putting my hair up, my shoulder completely dislocated. I did several weeks of physical therapy before finally getting an MRI. My MRI showed: \- Full-thickness 1.2 cm supraspinatus (rotator cuff) tear \- Bankart lesion with anterior/anterior-inferior labral tear \- Small Hill-Sachs lesion \- Mild bursitis \- No rotator cuff muscle atrophy The good news is my shoulder feels more stable now than it did initially. I have done 5 weeks of PT. But I still can't actively lift my arm overhead unless I help it with my other arm. Or extend it out fully and no twisting or reaching behind. My orthopedic follow-up isn't until July 23, and I'm trying to get an idea of what others experienced. If you had a similar injury: \- Did you end up having surgery or continue with PT? \- If you had surgery, what was repaired? \- How was recovery? \- Looking back, are you glad you chose the path you did? I know everyone's situation is different, and I'm not looking for medical advice—just real-world experiences while I wait for my appointment. Thanks!

Did i tear/strain my pec?

0 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 12:31 PM

Has anyone just sort of breezed through rotator cuff surgery?

37 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 12:21 PM

As the title says. 74m , active even with the injury except for lifting above horizontal with my injured shoulder. Just curious as all I ever read is the doom and gloom but eventual recovery. Thanks

Beginner in Badminton with Shoulder Pain and Looking for Help!

1 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 12:07 PM

Hey All! I have recently picked up badminton again and have noticed that I have been getting some serious shoulder pain that now has become a daily occurrence. I have played maybe 5x 2hr sessions in the last month and as of last week have had pain in the internal rotation of the right shoulder and stiffness in abducting it. The pain is worst during any overhead movement and continues on and off court. The pain is similar onto the left side too despite being a right handed player. I am aware that I am nowhere near a well trained player and technique is poorly too. I am taking a rest from badminton but was curious if anyone else has or is facing a similar issue and could provide some guidance on what to do for pain relief and maybe if anything else can be helpful here. For additional details, I have had a physician consult on the topic, however as of now I cannot afford the imaging request he hast stated and the only aid I have been given is to take some pain relief, wait 6-9 months and hope it goes away. Entering badminton once more was something to ease my day and bring spark at the end but in a weird way it feels like such a short end. As of current I am taking time away from badminton to prevent further injury if this is the case. I have purchased resistance bands to take care of the rotator cuffs and help strengthen them. Other than this, I do not know what to do! I am keen on advice for the following: 1. Specific Equipment I should change if needed: I am 5 ft 6" and weigh 70 kgs. I play with a Yonex Arcsaber 7 Tour stringed at 25 lbs with BG 667 Ultimax. I have appropriate Yonex shoes and have only been playing on appropriate badminton mats. 2. Shoulder Strengthening Exercises: What sort of exercises should I do? I am only engaging the internal and external rotators of both shoulders in all 90° complexes possible.. anything else that is helpful to cover? 3. What could this be and is this common? I am worried I have an injury far beyond repair from arrogant play that has led to this consequence... 4. Any dietary advice to aid recovery? 5. Any shoulder specific aids for play? 6. Any techniques that I may be neglecting which are causing harm to my shoulder? As far as I am aware I have had no trauma to the site! Please advice as well as you can! I am very keen to get back into playing but I cannot afford to injure myself any further. Take care everyone and I look forward to hearing from you all soon!

Did I do too much damage?

10 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 11:26 AM

I am 10 days out from a repair of a full thickness super spinatus rotator cuff tear. I received a paper after surgery that showed some exercises to start on day two. One of them was to take my arm out of the sling and bend my elbow up to my chest and bring it back down again to keep the elbow from getting stiff. The other one was doing little pendulum swings with the shoulder. The problem is that I did not notice that for both of those exercises, I was supposed to be using my good arm to assist the surgery arm. I did not notice that until yesterday. Now I am worried that I have done damage to that repair. I don’t see the surgeon for another week. Do you think I have damaged it by doing that? And if so, do you think it will still heal OK or would it have to have another surgery? I am so worried about this.

2 mths post op / 3 wks out of sling / PT

12 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 7:44 AM

Hi all, As the title says, I'm 2 months post op from a full rotator cuff repair. I'm 3 weeks out of my sling. My insurance is horrible and they're only laying for 4 more appointments... Despite having maxed my out of pocket. I'm 39, have almost full passive ROM and \~80% active ROM Anyway, how long were you all in PT? My thoughts are I'll pay out of pocket until I have fully restored active ROM, and then strength train with bands at the gym. I'm struggling to do the bands at home. But, I have been doing all of my isos and stretches.

Supraspinatus tear

3 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 6:12 AM

I tore my supraspinatus around 15 weeks ago. It doesn’t hurt at all in everyday life and not much while working out I can do 15 pull ups, 30 push ups and bench around 70kg (64kg bw) without pain. When should I start going gym properly without worrying and injury I haven’t gone physio at all so I’m not trying to risk another tear.

Orthopedic Surgeon Or Sports Medicine Doctor?

1 comment(s) · Jul 6, 2026, 1:33 AM

I mentioned that I have a lot of issues on my arm and shoulders in a few of my posts. Pretty certain I have either a torn rotator cuff or a labral tear. I have lot of weakness and numbness in my arms due to a few incidents that I had which caused it. I also have issues with my elbows a bit as well. I have issues with my knees as well due to a few incidents. I had asked this last time but phrased it in another way and was wondering if I should see one doctor who could look at all these issues or see 2 doctors who are specialists at each different area. I'm assuming most people here saw an orthopedic surgeon especially if they have one injury to do with or in the same area? I checked online for orthopedic doctors and I was somewhat surprised because I didn't know that sports medicine doctors actually look at so many areas of the body and I thought it was only orthopedic surgeon. The thing that has me confused is the sports medicine doctors that I find online, many of them have their own website and they are known as an orthopedic surgeon as well. Does that mean they are mainly a sports medicine doctor but they are also an orthopedic surgeon and thus they have many different titles? What I did notice is a lot of these sports medicine doctors seem to be experts at so many different areas of the body. Not only that, many of these doctors do surgeries on so many areas. I read some comments that if you want to have your shoulder and arms looked at, you should go specifically to an orthopedic surgeon that looks at that and nothing else. That makes sense because in a way, it does make sense you want to see someone that only looks at say the shoulder and arms only. However, obviously someone that looks at everything is very knowledgeable and an expert as well is very good because you don't have to go to multiple doctors because they can handle all your issues. Still a good amount of orthopedic surgeons do still look at other simpler options before they suggest surgery right? With sports medicine doctors who are orthopedic surgeons as well... it seems majority of them want to do simple procedures before going to the complex ones. Of course, some sports medicine doctors can probably tell if some simple procedures won't work and let you know. Do people here who have a shoulder or arm issue go to a doctor that is a orthopedic surgeon... or do more people go to a sports medicine doctor? If you have injuries that were from a while back, should you go to an orthopedic surgeon for like 2 different body parts or should you go to a sports medicine doctor that can look at everything?

Prp shots vs surgery

8 comment(s) · Jul 5, 2026, 11:18 PM

Okay bit of a ramble here. I am 25 I have torn 300° roughly of my labrum, torn my long head of my bicep off from the top, and I have a 50% supraspinatus tear. There is other damage in there two but those are the big ones. Started as sports injury then made worse at work as I do construction (I plan on switching occupations asap) anyways I have had two surgeries, 1 when I was 18 and 1 at 23 I have at least 7 anchors in my shoulder my bicep is reattached and so on. I’m now looking at a 3rd surgery it’s either that or prp shots so I just want to know if people have had success with prp shots if my shoulder is too far gone what people want to suggest for me at this point I’ll try just about anything. Any help is appreciated, thanks The new injury is the supraspinatus tear and I still have lots of pain so I consulted with my surgeon and my options are surgery 3 or prp shots

Cortisone Shot Questions

37 comment(s) · Jul 5, 2026, 3:40 PM

I am going to see an orthopedic doctor for my arm and shoulder. I am pretty certain I have a torn rotator cuff or labral tear. If I don't, I certainly torn something on my arm. I have a lot of weakness and numbness on my arm. I know that I will most likely have an MRI for my arm. I read that people have to get surgery for these things. I do read that a lot of doctors do have you try other things first like PT and other things. Now if you have a torn rotator cuff or labral tear on your shoulder, then surgery is pretty much 100% recommended right? The thing that I'm curious about is cortisone shots. I read lot of people get these but these are always for pain only? So if you have weakness or shaking or numbness, are cortisone shots ever given? I read several people mention cortisone shots never fix an issue. Is that true or false? Is it true it's always temporary? The thing is does it ever fix any weakness or numbness or shaking? I assume it never does? I did read a few reviews from patients who saw an orthopedic doctor and said whatever issue they had, they didn't need surgery. The thing is if the orthopedic doctor suggests cortisone shots, does everyone here do it just to see how it works? One issue with it though is you have bad side effects from it or it make your situation worse? But if it somehow fixes your issue, then it's good?

27M - Traumatic shoulder injury after bungee jump. Ultrasound shows supraspinatus & subscapularis tears + possible LHBT tear. Need advice.

4 comment(s) · Jul 5, 2026, 12:46 PM

Hi everyone, Ultrasound report: Possible LHBT tear (MRI recommended) Subscapularis insertional tear (12×4×4 mm) Supraspinatus tear (7×6×3 mm) Positive impingement Infraspinatus intact My symptoms are: Constant loose/hanging feeling whenever my arm isn’t supported. Clicking/catching. Front shoulder pain with certain curling movements. Tightness in external rotation. What’s confusing me is that I have **no pain on the lift-off test or belly-press test**, and my physiotherapist says I have almost full ROM except external rotation. A walk-in doctor also felt these were probably small partial tears based on my function. **Questions:** Can a subscapularis tear still have a negative lift-off and belly-press test? Does a 12×4×4 mm insertional tear automatically mean it’s high-grade, or could it still be a small partial tear? Has anyone had ultrasound findings like this that looked better on MRI? Would you continue physiotherapy while waiting for the MRI? Thanks!

Driving

33 comment(s) · Jul 5, 2026, 11:24 AM

At what stage of your recoveries did you all start driving, with or without doctor approval? I am four weeks out of rotator cuff repair surgery, bicep tenodesis, debridement, shaved arthritis off the clavicle.

6 days post surgery rotator cuff and tenodesis how much movement is too much

6 comment(s) · Jul 5, 2026, 10:13 AM

Had rotator cuff repair plus tenodesis plus was also supposed to have cleanup of frayed tendons and maybe some acromion reduction as mine’s narrow and contributed to frayed tendons. Was supposed to be in sling with abduction pillow but surgeon changed his mind after surgery, no explanation. Regular sling plus game ready sleeve for 30 mins on 30 mins off icing. Wearing game ready sleeve almost continually as provides additional support as sling feels pretty low key. Surgeons assistant stated sling was all they wanted with sleeve. Overall doing ok with pain management. My question is even with sling and sleeve my arm is not completely immobilized so though I’m pretty good at not raising forearm I am sometimes inadvertently shifting shoulder up or moving forearm up a bit. Pain is a reminder so that helps me stop but I’m a bit worried that I’m stressing tenodesis repair. It’s hard to not do some of these movements automatically and I try and move slowly and since I have a great caregiver ask for help. I see surgeon tomorrow and PT two days later. Surgeon is great repairman which I appreciate, not as great at lots of info! It’s just hard to gauge how fragile the repair is in early days. Thanks

Just had full thickness tear repair

3 comment(s) · Jul 4, 2026, 6:41 PM

Just had full thickness tear repair

20 comment(s) · Jul 4, 2026, 6:41 PM

Do said the tear was worse than originally thought and he was very happy with the decision to do surgery 63M, the shoulder was injured by freak accident catching my dog falling out of my car after parking (I caught him but was awkward) The worst part, initially, was coming out of anesthesia and having the nurse explain about the sling, the portable ice machine thing, and a op-q nerve ball The dangling ball was not allowing me to relax really, the dr said ok to remove it post op day 2. I'm fine trading that for the pain. Today post op day 2 was able to poop (taking Norco), get help changing my clothes, taking a sponge bath It seems like the instructions for post op care seem standard, but reading here makes me think not. For example, I can change my dressings post op day 3, but no shower until I see the surgeon post op day 11. Not sure why. I keep Worrying I'm going to move the arm wrong and F things up, but I guess the sling should prevent that. The pain has been OK. I'm taking the Norco one pill even though they said I could have two, and also trying to ice as much as possible For the icing, no one has mentioned how long I should ice. Just do it a few times a day, 20-30 minutes a pop I lift weight, swim, hike, travel and walk two strong rotties. Will I be able to lift or. Bench where I was before the injury? Was it a good idea to ditch the on-q nerve ball I'm not very patient and I'm not a good patient so any advice appreciated Finally, Dr said I could type. I do most work remote on computer but not sure if I keep on sling while working

9 weeks post op fall

6 comment(s) · Jul 4, 2026, 9:43 AM

I am 9 weeks post op from full tear repair.they used a collegen patch to strengthen it and secured w 4 anchors. So today, i tripped and fell on my surgical arm forearm. What are the chances that i tore this again? I am so beside myself.

Dumb question, but WHEN do you “do” PT?

19 comment(s) · Jul 4, 2026, 4:25 AM

I anticipate a surgical repair in my future which will almost certainly include post-op PT. BEST case, scenario is no surgery and just PT. Either way. . . When do people with jobs “do” PT? I can’t get a substitute 3 days a week for countless weeks. Is after-hours or night-shift PT a thing? US, Texas, if that’s relevant. Thanks y’all.

Advice almost 10 weeks post op with Regenenten patch

9 comment(s) · Jul 3, 2026, 8:39 PM

I had surgery on April 29 this year. I had a rotator cuff repair, a bicep tendonesis, acromionplasty and a bursectomy. At the four week mark I noticed the pain was just worse than it should be (I've had this done on my other shoulder sans the implant). My arm has been swollen and red for weeks, it is hot, I have a low grade fever constantly. I've seen my doc many times, he basically said my body is attacking the regenenten patch. He refused to order blood work but did put me on prednisone for a week and ordered an MRI. MRI looked good but showed massive inflammation. I am doing PT and have somewhat decent range of motion, but I still have severe pain with certain movements that lingers. Can't sleep anyway except on my back still. At this point he has offered to go back in and remove the patch but I'm just scared to do that and go through this again with no guarantees it'll solve the issue. Has anyone else had this issue with the regenenten patch or just in general?

Sling/arthritis help

1 comment(s) · Jul 3, 2026, 7:49 PM

Hello! I am helping my mom who had rotator cuff repair and biceps tenotomy two days ago. She is doing ok, but we are trying to figure out a way she can get in and out of her sling by herself to do exercises, readjust, etc. She has arthritis in her fingers and is not able to open the spring clips. She also struggles to reapply it and get the "backpack" type strap around her opposite shoulder. For reference, this is the sling she currently has. [https://a.co/d/03B8g5ix](https://a.co/d/03B8g5ix) She has had an anterior neck fusion, so I don't think something that just goes around the neck would be a good option either. Does anyone have any suggestions for sling that is easier to get on/off and is also effective? Thanks!

9 days post reverse replacement.

3 comment(s) · Jul 3, 2026, 6:20 PM

What I have learned. Get an ice machine. I was using ice packs. Got an ice machine today and game changer. I SOOOO wish I had had it from the start. I got the cheapest one on Amazon ($99 - google ice machine for shoulder). Total game changer.

Delt Injection caused shoulder pain flareup

4 comment(s) · Jul 3, 2026, 1:07 PM

Prior to getting on TRT I was going through physical therapy to manage some shoulder pain on the top outer part of my right shoulder. The physical therapist called it subacrnomial bursitis. After doing the exercises for a few months and icing it regularly the pain went away until I loaded high weight on it (for me a 45lbs & 25lbs does this). Under higher weight I feel some irritation but not "pain". And I was cleared from physical therapy Fast forward to now, I did a delt injection to my right shoulder. And felt some irritation but now even a few weeks later it's like all that work was undone. It's just as sore if not twice as sore as when I went through therapy months ago. Now I can't even do my normal 25 lbs pound warmups without feeling an insane amount of pain. Doing dumbbell presses feels almost impossible Does anyone have any advice for managing stuff like this? Naturally I'm NEVER using that should for injections again. But Im wondering if I can still use the left shoulder a site in my rotation even if I'm not doing my right? And how long do you think it'll be before I can bench proper again?

Rotator cuff 1 repair - 1 month post surgery

11 comment(s) · Jul 3, 2026, 12:44 PM

I had 2 full thickness tears (infra and Supraspinatus) and they tacked my bicep down. All things considered, I’m doing pretty well. Still not sleeping the best even sleeping sitting up but I do not have any pain the repair, most of the pain is the structures around it from the immobilizer. Been in PT for 2 weeks now and that’s not been too bad. I’m posting this more for anyone who is pre-op or immediately post op, it does get better and it’s continuing to get better every day.

Shoulder Bankart Repair + Replissage

1 comment(s) · Jul 3, 2026, 11:52 AM

Hi all, I just discovered this sub, and I had a question if you could please answer. Background: I have a history of anterior shoulder dislocation for about 15 years, mostly with sports. I’ve had about 6 dislocations in that time span, and I finally got a Bankart repair done 1.5 years ago, but it failed a few months in. I’m not sure the exact cause, but I didn’t feel much pain; mostly soreness for a week after working to remove old caulk from my bathroom tiles. MRI showed near circumferential tear of my labrum and a posterior Hill Sach’s lesion. Thankfully there wasnt much bone loss. Fast forward to last May, I had another Bankart repair, but this time with a replissage technique as well. My surgeon used additional anchors and said he was glad he went this route instead of trying a Laterjet procedure. After about 3 weeks post-op, I had an intense feeling in my surgical shoulder where it felt like my shoulder was pushing forward, and it happened twice in succession with intense pain. Then the pain just went away, and I never had this feeling again. But it was an experience I never felt before because it literally felt like my shoulder wanted to move forward but was tethered. I contacted my surgeon, who said to monitor it and see if it happens again, which it never did. Fast forward to now, which is 8 weeks post-op, and I can use my shoulder more. I have a few discomforts throughout the day and soreness at times when I wake up, but nothing bad. My question is: how would I know if my repair failed? My surgeon said I would feel intense pain and my shoulder would be in a stretched abduction and external rotation position. But I kinda did have intense pain, but my shoulder was on my side the whole time. Just curious about your thoughts. Thanks!

AC joint clicking after SLAP repair — possible scapular dyskinesis?

5 comment(s) · Jul 3, 2026, 7:18 AM

Hi everyone, I had a right shoulder SLAP repair on August 5, 2025. About 1 month after surgery, I developed a mechanical clicking/popping sensation around my AC joint/clavicle area, and it has continued for almost 9 months despite consistent rehab. The click happens mostly when I raise my arm forward, especially in the first 0–30 degrees of flexion, sometimes up to around 60 degrees. It feels like something is slightly stuck or misaligned, then suddenly “pops” or settles back into place. I also get a similar click when I move my arm behind my body, like shoulder extension/internal rotation. From the side, my scapula looks slightly prominent/winged, and I also have rounded shoulders. It feels like my scapula, clavicle, and shoulder are not moving smoothly together. My post-op MRI showed postoperative SLAP repair changes without a clear recurrent labral tear. The biceps tendon was reported as normal. There was supraspinatus tendinosis/old partial articular-sided tear appearance, but no major rotator cuff rupture or muscle atrophy. My acromiohumeral distance was measured on MRI and it was around 6.5 mm. I have tried many things for months: rotator cuff strengthening, serratus anterior work, lower trap/scapular exercises, rows, face pulls, wall slides, posture work, thoracic mobility, and general shoulder rehab. But the clicking has not really improved. At this point I am wondering if this is scapular dyskinesis, AC joint irritation/instability, clavicle rotation problem, scar tissue, impingement, or something else. Has anyone had persistent AC joint/clavicle clicking after SLAP/labrum surgery that did not improve with regular rehab? What finally helped you? I would really appreciate advice from anyone who has experienced this, or from PTs/orthopedic professionals.

Surgery or not

5 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 6:53 PM

Had an MRI done and went through 2 rounds of physical therapy. Now I’m at the point of deciding if we do surgery or not. Anyone else had the same findings and been successful without having surgery. I would like to keep playing sports so kind of leaning towards just getting it done and over with.

Tendinopathy of subscapularis and supraspinatus, need some help!

37 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 4:30 PM

​Hello everyone. ​I am a police officer and back in 2024 (specifically on November 13th), during a physical education session in a military course, I ended up injuring my right shoulder while performing push-ups. ​The pain started off small, but a month later, whenever I rotated my right arm to the sides, I felt a very sharp pain. ​I saw the first doctor and, since I was still in the middle of the course, he gave me a corticosteroid infiltration directly into my shoulder tendon. I had an ultrasound done, and it was confirmed at the time that it was a mild tendinopathy of the supraspinatus and subscapularis. ​The infiltration lasted for a few months, but my shoulder was still bothering me a lot. In September 2025, I underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, which showed subacromial impingement and mild supraspinatus tendinopathy. ​I went to see another orthopedist, and he told me that my acromion is curved (hooked/curved acromion), which was causing changes in my tendon, and that if physical therapy did not resolve it, I would have to undergo a decompression surgery (acromioplasty). ​I kept training normally at the gym; I continued doing my pull-ups and everything else. ​However, over the last two months, the pain has worsened significantly. On June 15th, I went to another orthopedist who ordered a new MRI, and it was noted that the condition has deteriorated. I am now diagnosed with these issues: ​DIAGNOSTIC IMPRESSION: ​Thin fluid film in the subacromial/subdeltoid bursa. ​Tendinopathy of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and the intra-articular portion of the long head of the biceps. ​Osteocapsular hypertrophy of the acromioclavicular joint causing compression on adjacent soft tissues. ​Capsuloligamentous thickening in the axillary recess. ​I started feeling severe pain in my right shoulder; sleeping has become difficult, and I can no longer do pull-ups without experiencing pain. Also, lifting my arm above my head hurts badly, and it feels like I am losing strength. ​The doctor put me on medical leave from my police duties for 60 days, prescribed physical therapy sessions for this period, but told me that if it doesn't resolve the issue, I will have to undergo an acromioplasty. ​The worst part is that I am doing the sessions and I am not feeling any improvement! Im worried that may It will need surgery, but the problem is that I'm feeling a lot of pain but in the MRI doesnt shows any signal of tears!! So, it will be necessary surgery? ​I will be attaching the MRI images here. If anyone can help me, I appreciate it!

Ongoing should issue for the past 19 months

4 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 3:28 PM

Long story short. I injured my left shoulder in December 2024. I was working at height up a ladder and reached my left arm backwards to fix a clamp onto a cable coming over my shoulder. I had a sudden sharp pain, which I could only describe as someone snapping an elastic band against by shoulder. The following days I had constant pins and needles, which my GP advised sounded like a nerve impingement. A few days rest, and it developed into a dull ache in my shoulder which intensified with movement. Over the next 3 months, I had multiple visits to the Dr's, Physio's and eventually had an Ultrasound where they stated I had Subacromial Bursitis and Mild Tendonitis. I carried on with the PT and got my shoulder back into a position where I could return to full duties at work. Fast forward to now, my Shoulder has gotten even worse. I have been working through the pain for the past 6 months and have a very physically demanding job, involving a lot of working at height, heavy lifting, lots of pushing and pulling under tension. At the moment, I have a constant dull ache deep in my shoulder, coupled with sporadic sharp pains in the side of my shoulder, in my scapula and in my chest close to my armpit. I have a painful arc, a positive empty can test on my last examination and can't lift any weight out to my side. When I attempt to, it doesn't necessarily hurt, it just feels incredibly weak, my arm shakes violently and I just seem to hit a wall. I am currently awaiting an Orthopedic referral and have been told I am not so any work at height. I can't have time off work, due to losing income. Has anyone else experienced similar issues? Could a tear have been missed on the first scan, or could the bursitis have developed into a tear due to the constant strain my shoulder has been under? I appreciate anyone that has gotten this far, and look forward to your replies.

It Gets Better

12 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 2:25 PM

41M. I'm 11 weeks post op of a full thickness supraspinatus tear and bicep tenodesis. Around week 9 was when I really started to notice my progression. My range of motion is leaps and bounds better than just a few weeks ago. My pain is minimal and it's getting stronger everyday. Even a few weeks ago I wouldn't have thought Id have this much movement currently. It does get better, keep up with your PT and stretching. Don't overdo it!!! If it doesn't feel right, stop!! I was so nervous I was going to reinjure it but now I'm gaining more confidence in the repair everyday. It sucks but you can do this!!

Nutrition to speed revovery

5 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 1:56 PM

Just a week post surgery and this time, second surgery, i am focusing far more on nutrition to shorten the healing time. I researched online, chatted with my GP and a nutritionist, and came up with a list of supplements that I have been taking daily since a week prior to the procedure. Curious if anyone else has done some of this and what you’re taking. Personally I’ve noticed a marked difference this time but understand that there are a lot of factors at play.

Wolverine stack after rotator cuff surgery?

4 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 11:41 AM

Has anyone here used BPC-157/TB-500 after rotator cuff surgery? If so, what were the injuries and repairs?

31M - Received MRI results for both my shoulders and I'm unsure where to go from here

2 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 9:59 AM

Hello. So just for context. I am 31M, 6'1/230lbs. I dabble in bodybuilding, powerlifting, combat sports(mma/wrestling/muay thai). I've never had an issue with anything in my body for the first 28 years of my life. In the **last 3 years I've experienced**: * TFCC tear in my right wrist. * Dequervains in my left wrist. * Hip bursitis in my right hip. * Gout * Now problems with both my shoulders and rotator cuff I got my MRI's back and this is basically what it says: **Left shoulder:** No Fractures Mild supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendinosis without tear. There is mild edema in the subacromial/subdeltoid bursa. There is infiltration of the fat in the rotator interval. **Right shoulder:** There is a possible partial-thickness articular surface tear of the anterior insertional supraspinatus tendon measuring approximately 6 mm in AP dimension and involving up to 50% of the tendon thickness. There is a background of mild supraspinatus tendinosis. Mild infraspinatus and subscapularis tendinosis without tear. There is mild edema in the subacromial/subdeltoid bursa. My right shoulder seems like there may or may not be a tear but they can't tell. And there's tendinitis on both. If I'm reading this correctly. **Not sure where to go from here. PT doesn't work and I think PRP is the only option atm**. Not going to get cortisone shots since those don't fix anything. Currently can't lift heavy (I can but don't want to risk it). Not sure if I ever will again, or I might risk further damage.) Left shoulder there's a lot of clicking, pain when stretching cross body, can't really bench press anymore. Right shoulder not as much clicking but more inflammatory pain. These injuries are on top of hip bursitis, left wrist surgery, TFCC injury on my right wrist. My body is breaking down in real time and I don't know why. I fear I will never be the same again and the last 3 years of my life have broken my physically and mentally. **I'm talking to my ortho next week. Not sure what to even ask.** I am assuming he will recommend PRP on both shoulders. From my understanding surgery isn't even an option and if it is it would be on my left shoulder. **Might consider going to do some sort of exploratory surgery somewhere else in the future. I eat quite clean, lots of single ingredient foods with lots of protein, carbs and greens. drink lots of mineral water. I stretch a lot pre-workout. I even got some blood testing, thyroid, deficiency done with my rheumatologist b/c I was getting injured so much for**

partial-thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon

14 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 3:47 AM

Hey im 28m and did very much Weightlifting in the past. Since about 1,5 years i have Problems with my left Arm and shoulder What do you mean is surgery the only way to get Back full strength? MRI of the Left Shoulder – June 24, 2026 Sequences: Axial T2-weighted PD FSE FatSat, coronal T1-weighted SE, coronal 3 mm PD FSE FatSat, sagittal 3 mm PD FSE FatSat. Clinical Indication Suspected shoulder-arm syndrome. Patient history: Trauma approximately one year ago. Persistent shoulder pain since then. No previous surgery. Findings No previous MRI of the left shoulder is available for comparison. Minimal activation of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint without relevant osteoarthritis. Mild narrowing of the subacromial space due to a slightly laterally downsloping acromion and a mildly prominent coracoacromial ligament. No subacromial or subdeltoid bursitis. The supraspinatus muscle shows no abnormal tendon retraction or fatty degeneration. There is a focal area of increased signal intensity at the insertion of the supraspinatus tendon (SSP) involving the anterior and middle portions. The tendon itself remains intact without a full-thickness tear. At the overlap zone with the subscapularis tendon (SSC) there is a small articular-sided partial-thickness tear with extension into the deep fibers of the supraspinatus tendon, accompanied by insertional tendinopathy of the subscapularis tendon. No complete rotator cuff tear or tendon retraction is present. The long head of the biceps tendon is normally positioned within the bicipital groove. The pulley complex (formed by the superior glenohumeral ligament and the coracohumeral ligament) appears intact. Mild tendinitis of the long head of the biceps tendon is present. The remaining bony structures and the glenoid labrum are intact. The inferior anterior joint capsule appears slightly thickened and demonstrates mildly increased signal intensity, which may indicate early adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder). Alternatively, these findings may represent scar tissue involving the inferior joint capsule. No joint effusion is present. Impression \-Small articular-sided partial-thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon in the overlap zone with the subscapularis tendon, as described above. \-Early insertional tendinopathy of the subscapularis tendon. \-Intact rotator cuff without full-thickness tendon tear or tendon retraction. \-Mild early biceps tendinitis. \-Minimal AC joint degeneration without significant osteoarthritis. \-Mild subacromial impingement due to a slightly laterally downsloping acromion and a mildly prominent coracoacromial ligament. \-Findings suggestive of early adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder); alternatively, mild scarring of the inferior joint capsule.

Rotator Cuff pain 6 months

5 comment(s) · Jul 2, 2026, 2:34 AM

I started to have rotator cuff pain since January and it is mild pain on my right arm. I can stretch my right arm up and right but can't reach my left shoulder and back. I didn't see a doctor and not a PT either. I hoped it would heal by itself. I did take some PT exercises by following the guide on hinge health but it didn't help. Two weeks back, I tried one exercise guided by Hinge Health and it made pain worse. I slept on my left side and felt pain in the night because right arm is too close to the body. I would feel better by putting a pillow under the right arm. It has been 6 months and I have no hope it would heal by itself. Any suggestion from my dear friends? I read some posts and heard that surgery may be the only option. But I don't think my pain is severe enough to have surgery. I would like to go back gym. I am in my late 40s.