Shocked With Shoulder Diagnosis

I saw the orthopedic surgeon yesterday to review the MRI of my right shoulder. I had the CD and preliminary report in my possession. I am a retired Registered Nurse. So, I opened the envelop and read the report. I was shocked with the amount of injury/degeneration of THREE of the four tendons at the top the the shoulder that surrounds the humerus (upper arm) bone. I tried to put the information out of my mind until the medical appointment.   

Today, the severity of the problem is becoming very real to me. The doctor was very thorough in his examination and explanation of the problem and treatment options. He discussed everything from arthroscopic surgery to shoulder replacement. The damage to my shoulder from "wear and tear" is so severe that it may not be operable.

Ligaments attach bone to bone. TENDONS are much like ligaments, except that tendons attach MUSCLES TO BONE. Muscles move the bones by pulling on the tendons.  The rotator cuff tendons are a group of four tendons that connect the deepest layer of muscles to the humerus. According to the report and doctor, there is COMPLETE ABSENCE of the supraspinatus tendon and some of the adjacent infraspinatus tendon consistent with a LARGE TEAR with retraction and probable PARTIAL TEAR of the subscapularis tendon. And, as to be expected there is a lot of degenerative changes because of my age. Surprisingly, I do not have any arthritis at the top of my humerus.

So, as you can see, it is not a very pretty picture. My doctor is sending me for another opinion with an orthopedic surgeon in Sacramento, CA who specializes in doing ONLY shoulder surgery.

I have been through a lot of muscular/skeletal problems in my life primarily because I have always expected a lot out of my body. Not having someone else to do things for me and not having the money to pay someone to do things certainly has contributed to the situation. I came from a very strong work ethic and have never been able to ignore things that need to be done. This is my right shoulder which is my dominant arm.  My life is really going to be impacted in the next few months.  

I will be working hard to keep my spirits high. I have survived a lot in the past and I have to believe that I will get through this also.

Now, I am going to enjoy the beautiful Autumn Day "here in the neighborhood". The fall colors are so beautiful and the nights are getting colder.

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Wishing you a Fabulous Day.