Tendinosis? Arthroscopic surgery?

[calmloki]

So for the last couple months I've had limited ability to lift my L arm in front of me or to the side - Thanks shoulder stengthening exercises! Washing my hair, changing a light bulb, lifting my arm palm down maybe 20 degrees straight out in front of me are all painfull. - x-ray showed nothing, MRI impression says "1. findings compatible with supraspinatus tendinosis. Suspect focal tear of the distal supraspinatus tendon." Findings: ...suspicious for a small focal tear which extends to the articular surface and which appears to be either a complete or near complete full thickness tear. "2. Mild hypertrophic degenerative change, acromioclavicular joint."
I'm going up to see a shoulder specialist on the first, but want to get a little info first. If arthroscopic surgery is suggested what am I looking at? If I continue to do nothing (other than continue to cut the really painful exercises) will I heal naturally? Over what period? Per normal, the shoulder hurts less now than before going for the MRI, kinda like the way tooth pain subsides the closer you get to the dentist...

Anyone had arthroscopic surgery on their shoulder? Results? Anyone care to chime in? I've been telling SWMBO that I'm just a big wussy, but this sure does make my attitude poor when fixing stuff for the tenants!

[Moemg]

Originally Posted by calmloki

I'm going up to see a shoulder specialist on the first, but want to get a little info first. If arthroscopic surgery is suggested what am I looking at?

I've spent the last five years before retirement working in a outpatient orthopedic surgery center . The specialist will probably give you a cortisone shot first to see if this helps and then depending on your exam and your MRI he may scheldue shoulder arthroscopy .You are asleep during the procedure.The recovery depends on what they find and what if any repairs are needed .A lot of times the shoulder just needs to be cleaned out of excess tissue .It's done with a little shaver .If a repair is needed most times it can be done through a tiny incision . You will be in a sling afterwards and depending on the surgery you will have certain restrictions .Some surgeries require a lot of rehab some do not . Worst case scenario probably four to six weeks in a sling with limited motion >best case scenario probably sling overnight and then start to exercise the arm . My So had extensive repairs to his rotator cuff and has done fine ,good strength in his arm and no real pain .Hope this answers some of your questions .Of course every doctor has different rules .