friar1610
Thinks s/he gets paid by the post
- Joined
- Jun 27, 2002
- Messages
- 1,643
I've just received a recommendation to have an arthroscopic procedure on my right shoulder. The procedure would be used to determine specifically the extent of my rotator cuff problem and then to do whatever repair is appropriate.
I've been dealing with this problem 6-9 months. I've done (at home) physical therapy exercises and had one cortisone shot, both to no lasting avail. The fact that there is a partial tear has been confirmed by an MRI.
I'm probably more concerned with the length of recovery period/rehab/down time than I am with the procedure itself. I like my exercise (although some of it has been curtailed due to this problem) and hate to think about going any extended period without it. I'm 75 so I'm sure I won't bounce back immediately but I'm in pretty good shape for a guy that age.
My next-door neighbor, about 10 years younger than I, has been dealing with a similar issue but has chosen to use a laser treatment that is somewhat new and, according, to the orthopod I saw, unproven. The neighbor reports relief from his pain. The orthopod (who does not do this procedure himself) expresses skepticism that this will be a long-term cure.
Any "war stories" from those of you who have had either the arthroscopic procedure or the laser surgery? Were you satisfied with the outcome? How much did the recovery/rehab process take you out of action? Would you do it again knowing what you know now? Any questions you didn't ask the doc that, in retrospect, you wish you had? Any other comments?
Thank you.
PS In case you're wondering, my right arm is my pitching arm. After their disastrous season, the Red Sox definitely want me back in the spring.
I've been dealing with this problem 6-9 months. I've done (at home) physical therapy exercises and had one cortisone shot, both to no lasting avail. The fact that there is a partial tear has been confirmed by an MRI.
I'm probably more concerned with the length of recovery period/rehab/down time than I am with the procedure itself. I like my exercise (although some of it has been curtailed due to this problem) and hate to think about going any extended period without it. I'm 75 so I'm sure I won't bounce back immediately but I'm in pretty good shape for a guy that age.
My next-door neighbor, about 10 years younger than I, has been dealing with a similar issue but has chosen to use a laser treatment that is somewhat new and, according, to the orthopod I saw, unproven. The neighbor reports relief from his pain. The orthopod (who does not do this procedure himself) expresses skepticism that this will be a long-term cure.
Any "war stories" from those of you who have had either the arthroscopic procedure or the laser surgery? Were you satisfied with the outcome? How much did the recovery/rehab process take you out of action? Would you do it again knowing what you know now? Any questions you didn't ask the doc that, in retrospect, you wish you had? Any other comments?
Thank you.
PS In case you're wondering, my right arm is my pitching arm. After their disastrous season, the Red Sox definitely want me back in the spring.