Sports Injury Info

Shoulder Impingment (subacromial decompression)

by Shaun
(Vancouver)

I injured my shoulder lifting weights a year ago. I have been in pysio for most of it, had prolotherapy and a cortisone shot. All those that treated me said my MRI showed minor damage-partial supersp. tear... yet I am still in pain. Will impingement actually show on an MRI. I am thinking a subacromial decompression surgery is my last option.

I get the most pain with my arm coming across my body and out to the side, and some overhead. It has improved some with the treatments, but then always return.

Also, I have been weightlifting for 10+ years (32 years old) and am concerned that this surgery may limit my return to lifting. Any comments would be appreciated.

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Shoulder Impingment (subacromial decompression)

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Oct 05, 2008
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by: Bart - SII

Impingement can show up on an MRI in the form of inflammation, fluid, and the shape of the acromion. The fact that you have a possible partial tear of the supraspinatus is likely the cause of your pain and why you are still having problems despite the therapy and injections.

You best choice may be an SAD with a rotator cuff repair. Returning to weights after surgery and rehab should be possible because you are young and active, but it will take time and will be important to return gradually - and you may want to consider transitioning to a higher rep / lower weight program for a period of time, or giving up really heavy weights altogether.

Bart
Oct 16, 2008
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by: Anonymous

i just had this surgery 5 weeks ago and what a pain in the @#!@ the recovery is but at 5 weeks i am lifting 10 pounds over my head and seeing strenght increases everyday just be aware of the atrophy you will endure your afflicted shouder and arm with be significantly smaller and will take up to 6 months to get back. all said ad done my pain is almost gone and no impingemen. the most imprtant thing is dont get discouraged, after 3 weeks you will be so weak you will only be able to lift like 3 pounds but after 3 weeks strength returns very quickly.

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