I am interested in hearing any stories or advice from people who have undergone supraspinatus tear repair. I recently suffered a 1 cm "clean tear" during an incident when I was tumbled by a rogue wave down a lava wall. The good news is I survived with no neck or head injuries, only abrasions and - the bad news - a messed up shoulder, which will require surgical repair "sooner rather than later".
I know the recovery from this is slow but can be successful. So while I am very sad I will miss several months of swimming, I am optimistic about getting back to it this summer.
Any tips? what questions should I ask the surgeon?
Thanks, Karen
Hi Karen - glad you didn't hurt your neck or back. I am so sorry about your shoulder. The post from matysekj contains excellent advice. Early this spring I had a small labrum tear "cleaned up" and had removal of bone spurs, arthritis and scar tissue. I slept on our couch. I had my right shoulder repaired - so I slept on my left side while somewhat leaning towards the back of the couch. Have plenty of pillows to make you comfy. I was also offered the ice system at my Dr's but after shock of the sticker price of surgery - I was not interested in spending another $300. So, I went to my local mega sports store and purchased a sling designed to hold 2 gel ice packs to your shoulder. It was made out of a thick lycra and had Velcro to secure it in place. I purchased two more packs so I didn't have to wait for packs to freeze. I spent $20. It was great. Ice as much as possible and take your meds like clockwork. I am now doing 3000 yard workouts and playing it safe because I too want to go to Indy. :) Don't try to rush getting back into the water - take your time and heal well. Good luck to you - please PM me with any questions! Take care!
Hi Karen - glad you didn't hurt your neck or back. I am so sorry about your shoulder. The post from matysekj contains excellent advice. Early this spring I had a small labrum tear "cleaned up" and had removal of bone spurs, arthritis and scar tissue. I slept on our couch. I had my right shoulder repaired - so I slept on my left side while somewhat leaning towards the back of the couch. Have plenty of pillows to make you comfy. I was also offered the ice system at my Dr's but after shock of the sticker price of surgery - I was not interested in spending another $300. So, I went to my local mega sports store and purchased a sling designed to hold 2 gel ice packs to your shoulder. It was made out of a thick lycra and had Velcro to secure it in place. I purchased two more packs so I didn't have to wait for packs to freeze. I spent $20. It was great. Ice as much as possible and take your meds like clockwork. I am now doing 3000 yard workouts and playing it safe because I too want to go to Indy. :) Don't try to rush getting back into the water - take your time and heal well. Good luck to you - please PM me with any questions! Take care!
