Hi! Has anyone on here had this procedure done? I have extensive tears, so I'm going in this Tuesday morning at 5:30 for surgery. I'm not looking forward to it, but I can't really handle the pain anymore. I want to get back to lifting weights, playing volleyball, trying a zipline...but I need this repaired first. Was curious to see if anyone can give me some "First-Hand" advice or tips! Thanks--Marilou

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If you're not living on the edge, you're wasting space.

Marilou- Don't worry yourself! My dad had surgery on both of his rotators within 9 months of each other. Each time the physical therapists were shocked at how well he did, but I think he really pushed himself. (He needed to be able to get back to physical activity as well- work and he fitness wise).

Just wanted to wish you the best of luck. I'll be thinking about you Monday!

Oof...whenever I hear the word "tear" associated with something in the body, my legs turn to jello!

No thoughts on the surgery, but I wish you a very speedy recovery!

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I see a lot of rotator cuff tears w/ my claimants.
A lot of how you rehab depends on a lot of things:
Are you having the surgery done arthroscopically or "open"? Arthroscopically will heal faster, however, I see more "repeat" surgeries w/ Arthroscopic surgeries.
Are they doing a subacromial decompression as well?
How bad are the tears?
What kind of physical condition are you in and do you have any underlying medical conditions that will inhibit healing?

Typically, in most of my claimants, I see 10-14 days complete immobilization. Then 2-3 weeks of physical therapy for passive range of motion (basically getting it out of the sling, doing movement without any weight or resistance), then another 2-3 weeks w/ active range of motion and strengthening.

Things to watch out for: frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis and of course infection.

I realize that you say you can't take the pain anymore but just a couple of questions:
Did you get a second opininion? Did you try immobilization and then physical therapy prior to deciding to have surgery? Did you try injection in the shoulder?
Surgery (by and large) should be the choice of last resort. Surgery sets you up for possible long-term conditions (arthritis) and makes you more susceptible for repeat injuries of that body part.

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Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

I have had several friends that have had this done. . .and it really was for the best. I have heard the pain before can be really awful. Do you know how you got the tears? If it's from lifting there are things that you can do to prevent them. . .ask when you are in PT.

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"No one believes more firmly than Comrade Napoleon that all animals are equal. He would be only too happy to let you make your decisions for yourselves. But sometimes you might make the wrong decisions, comrades, and then where should we be?"
- George Orwell Animal Farm

I have alot of friends at work that have been out with this surgery. Not to scare you, but this is what I've heard- They are all surprised at the amount of post surgery pain, and the length of rehab. Usually at least 3 months out of work. On the bright side, all have had very good results with all shoulder problems completely resolved after recovery time. Good luck to you.

I have had this surgery and I have more pain now than before surgery. I`m sorry to tell you this but I guess everyone is different. I could not go back to work after. Hope everything turns out o.k. Sorry but you asked. nancy

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When you don`t know what to do-Walk fast and look worried.