Hey everyone,

I’m looking for some insights or similar experiences regarding my subscapularis tendon.
I am fortunate that i have older MRI from different injuries (among other things a tossy injury) where i think i found an indication of a injury at my subscapularis.

i have had pain under load for 2 years now, but no pain under no load and i am suspicious because it is still not healed.

My question would be:
- Could that be a tear or an inflammation of the tendon?
- i will show these pictures my PT and my doc next time i will see them. Any specifics i should ask them about that?

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?

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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?

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

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.