1 Year after Rotator cuff Surgery

My progress after 1 year from having rotator cuff surgery.

[@markoconnor7082]

Hey Donna, I am 16 weeks out from my right rotator cuff surgery. I did 12 pt sessions from week 1 to 11. I’m 65 years old and had my left rotator cuff surgery in 2018 which worked out well. My pt for the last 6 weeks is mowing the lawn, vacuuming and mopping the house, riding motorcycles etc. I just washed and wiped down my rv and walked my 65 lb black lab. In my experience the Surgeons and therapists thrive on your problems. As long as the surgery was done properly you will be fine. After working your shoulder with therapy, exercise or housework take 2 ibuprofen for the inflammation and rest. Over time you will be pain free. Best of luck with your recovery.😎👍

[@ericdavis9694]

Thanks for letting me know I’m not alone and it’s gonna take time. Six months out and you nailed all of my symptoms and frustration.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Eric Davis, you are welcome. I know, it is really frustrating, but if you look back you will see that you are improving! It just is a slow and steady process.

[@kimberlynoland3621]

Thank you Donna. I'm only 2 weeks out and I am hurting pretty good here. I'm not a quitter though and I believe God will heal. It's going to take time but I will get better. I had everything done except a complete replacement. I'm 58 retired Truck driver over the road for over 31 years and my other shoulder needs to be completley replaced. Wore it out shifting gears. Only after this on my left side I think I will just take it with me. I think the worse part for me is wearing this sling . My neck is killing me becuase in 2016 I had Titanium put in C-3-5 . Hey I'm almost bionic here LOL. That was painful too! So I just keep praying and thanking Jesus for his never ending Love! Have a Wonderful Thanksgiving!

[@tomb6681]

Thank you for the update Donna. I just passed 11 months this week, similar set of repairs as yours (which is pretty massive you know), but it is difficult to compare progress as everyone’s physiology is different. I still like to hear your experiences though, since we all share similar recovery goals and, you are a good storyteller. 1 year is a huge milestone, congrats on the return of your strength and range. I get your sense of frustration with lingering pain - I also do the one arm coat thing. Positional soreness, I’ve come to accept, may linger for months still. I have zero regrets about the surgery, there would have been no way I would have had reasonable function otherwise. I returned to hockey (gentlemen’s league:-)) this month and considering a ski trip at March break (worried about falling too - but it is a mental obstacle more than physical one). We have the luxury of being optimistic after all right? We know we can improve, we just don’t know exactly when, but it does improve with time and treatment. I read all of your followers as well. There seems to be a lot of aggressive PT out there. Overuse and over-flexing, especially in the first few months, puts a lot of stress on other muscles. All I would say is, be patient early on. It pays off in the end. Oh, and ice every day. Don’t wait for pain! I hope you continue improving (and posting!), and thanks for your positive energy!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Tom, thanks for your encouraging words to me and other readers! You are right that it is nice to hear how other people are progressing even though we don't all heal exactly the same.

[@carolmayor8089]

Tom B f

[@sabvrao]

Hi, thanks for the suggestion on patience early on ... why Ice everyday though, even if no pain? Doesn’t ice lead to stiffness? Thought heat is better for circulation and healing ...? I ask this not to argue but to get corrected if am wrong. Thank you...

[@tomb6681]

@@sabvrao Great question, and an ageless debate in fact. I just don't know. I'll be honest, I took my therapist's advice all the way through the journey and came out so much better than I ever thought I might. I think the joint gets 23.5 hrs a day to have good circulation and ice for 20 minutes at night seemed to counteract whatever excessive misuse I probably did to it during the day -even if there was no pain. I'd love a thoughtful scientific explanation of when to heat vs ice but have not heard one yet.

[@sabvrao]

@@tomb6681 thanks so much. That actually seems like a good explanation/ rationale for the icing.

[@leslieburchell-fox7928]

I am one week post op, full repair of RC. Your videos are beyond helpful. Thank you.

[@gache52]

It's been four months since my surgery and I was thrilled to hear your experiences as they mirror mine in many ways. Extending my arm to the side heavily impacts my "wing" span. So 30 sessions of PT along with exercising at home sds normal. I'm not there yet but misery loves company and by the amount of comments, I'd say there are many going through similar experiences. Thank you. You have given me hope. I'm 69 and an active traveler. Best wishes

[@susantomkins8798]

Hello Donna I am 61 years old and live in Australia, I had shoulder surgery on 23rd August so just over 2 weeks ago. What a journey this is! I had the supraspinatus and biceps tendons repaired. I have to say I have watched many KZbin videos before and after surgery, none have been as honest and helpful as yours! I really appreciate you making these, it's like chatting over a coffee you are open and friendly. I hope you are doing well now! 😊😊😊

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Susan, Thank you for your kind words! I am doing very well and my shoulder is stronger than ever! I wish you well through your recovery!

[@jenniferbracken3726]

Donna - Thank you for all your videos. They have been extremely helpful. I am hoping to have my surgery performed next week (schedule permitting). I'm an engineer, and every individual's story is a data point, and no 2 data points are the same. I've taken notes and am remaining optimistic. I wish you the best in your continuing journey onward!

[@djoant]

I am at 1 year 1 month post-rotator cuff surgery. I just discovered your honest and helpful videos now. You echo my experience so well and I hat is encouraging beyond measure. I thought I was doing poorly, sometimes hopelessly, because I am 70. I recently changed my goal from feeling like the shoulder is a normal part of me in 12 months to 18 months. Thank you so much for telling it like it was for you.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

You are welcome Darrell! 2 years was my best yet! I don't even think about that shoulder anymore!

[@djoant]

OMG! That's great news!

[@toddlarsen1547]

Well all this sounds like an adventure because I begin my journey 12/1/21. I’m a right handed plasterer 40 years fell off the scaffolding 11/3. Landed on my right shoulder about 6 feet up. Two tendons tears and rotator cuff tear. My surgeon is Dr. P who is the LA Kings lead orthopedic so I’m very hopeful. I’m 57 years old and very active still. I appreciate your story Donna!

[@cindyrella24673]

How did it all go? I too tore 3 things, completely, 2 cuffs and a bicep tendon. I already have full range of motion and thinking of canceling my surgery.

[@SuperJohnfoster]

you have helped me a lot. I am in week 8 almost full range of motion but no strength and some pain. sorry you had such a hard go of it. I think you should be proud of the help you have given people with these videos. wonderful lady

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Thank you John! That is wonderful that you already have full range! Pain and no strength is perfectly normal at 8 weeks, hang in there!

[@SuperJohnfoster]

yes just reaching up behind my back is hard to do. I am surprised how long and hard this particular surgery is . It takes longer than i thought. I narrow mindedly thought that I would be able to go back to work at 12 weeks. I work construction. I have to wait till strength comes back a bit more. The video where you mention the scapular problem was very helpful. It made me watch what was going on more. The Breg-POLAR-CARE-CUBE was a good idea and I think I healed better because of it. I also bought a thing called the rotator which helps stretch

[@JayceeCali]

@@funmakingmoneyify .

[@kylebenning5304]

Hi, thanks for the honest up-date. I saw one of your earlier videos just after surgery. I have been pouring over KZbin in an effort to familiarize myself with the inns & outs involved--as I am considering the surgery. The saying goes, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." So, while the physiology of your/our pain is enough in itself to deal with; our emotional stability is challenged by the lack of rest through sleep and the thought that says, "what if the pain never goes away?" I found that upon going through a brutal case of covid in November of this past year, and the stress if just hanging on; it required me to exercise my thoughts at a nearly constant level. Now with the rotator cuff issue, pain and sleeplessness, I am in the same position, needing to live, to do the due diligence at finding the right surgical option, and all the while exercising my mind by constant encouragement. I will say, the while hearing you speak about the continued pain and sleep issues caused a red light to go on for me, I also know that the Hope we have is An Anchor of the soul. Your soul is your mind, your will and your emotions. So, I am praying for both you and I to be strong, and I encourage you to exercise your belief that you can overcome with the same tenacity you are engaged in disciplining the physical side of things. Thanks again for the vids. Kyle

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Kyle, very insightful. I am doing great now!

[@noelaquino5166]

Today marks my one year anniversary of my surgery. Your video blogs helped me every step of the way in my rehabilitation process. You are truly an inspiration! Whenever I see someone wearing the brace, I reach out to them giving encouragement & refer your videos. My heartfelt thanks to you!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Noel Aquino, that’s awesome that you reach out to help others! We all have to encourage each other!

[@sharonanderson346]

Of all the video's I've watched on rotator cuff healing from surgery; yours is the best. I've realized my surgery is going to be a year long healing also. What's the worst thing is I lost my job because of this. My FMLA was only for 12 weeks. Also my insurance only allowed me to have 12 therapy sessions. I'm doing all I learned at therapy at home on my own. Thank you for all the encouragement.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

You are welcome and good luck to you.

[@SlipKid1975]

Thanks for the update. I had my rotator surgery on 12/13 so I'm a little more than 9 weeks in. Fortunately mine was not as extensive as yours. I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and am pretty much able to do most things I did prior to surgery with the exception of running and cycling and I hope to start doing that in a couple of weeks. I still have pain and stiffness particularly in the morning and I do a lot of icing which helps. I started noticing improvement at around week 4. I have watched all your videos and started watching them prior to my surgery so I knew what to expect. I hope you continue to improve and and look forward to more updates from you.

[@vernongagne4042]

Thank you for cronicalling your experiences. I'm 6 weeks post op and free of my sling. I way underestimated the recovery time for this. Your videos are helping me understand that I just have to be patient and do the work. What a slow strange trip this is gonna be. 🤷‍♂️

[@kimt1711]

Donna, I am four years post-op for rotator cuff repair and some other clean up. I reached full range of motion early at 6 months with moderate pain, but everything was served up with a side of pain so I felt very encouraged. I’d worked hard and it was surely paying off. The only problem was that my pain never went away and shortly after the one year mark, actually took a dive into the 8 pain range. No relief without meds for maybe a 60% relief. My only friend...ibuprofen every 6 hours. I don’t take the hard stuff. I have kids and a job and can’t be zonked out of my mind constantly. I’ve been getting steroid injections all this time, as well. Despair is an understatement. I’ve been ready to dig a hole and crawl into it. Appointment after appointment with no diagnosis or plan of attack. Pain spread into my chest, neck, shoulder blade and arm to the thumb. Front of the shoulder is the worst pain most days, but they all battle for that title daily. I’d say at the two year mark, I realized I’d feel this way every single second of every single day until the very last second of my very last day. I was living only because I had a family and they still needed me. I just found out today I have a bone spur on the bottom of my acromion that has shredded my supraspinatus again. I also have edema from my previous anchor and it must be removed. Fluid at my biceps tendon might mean a repair there as well. Plus, a new posterior labrum tear. That MRI report was stout. I came across your video series and cried like a baby when I reached the 12 month video. I knew why there was a missing 10 month video. I recognized the look in your eyes. Positive outwardly, but also worried and let down. I’m so hopeful you are feeling much better, but if you’re not, know that you are not alone. I made it through the absolute hell of recovering once and, unfortunately, I’m about to stand back up for round two. Which is something I swore I would never do. I just have to believe anything is better than accepting this horrible version of me that I’ve become. It’s worth it to try again, fight again, and maybe...just maybe...win this time. I’m scheduled for July 2nd. Here’s to pain, PT and positive attitudes!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Kim Tate, I am so sorry that you have gone through such a painful existence with your shoulder! I was 80% for 18 mos and found a wonderful exercise program called the Egoscue Method, that got me to 100%. The exercises are based on getting your posture correct and everything else falls into place. I am doing great now! Good luck to you!

[@AK-lf1ks]

It’s been 4 years but how did your 2nd surgery go?

[@marylynch951]

Hi Donna I have had my rotator cuff surgery on Monday 14th 2019 It went very well thank God I have very little pain Discomfort yes but no pain I was on the Strong painkillers just for 2 days Yes of course the sleeping is not good and I have to wear the sling for the full 6 weeks I am sleeping in my bed surrounded by pillows It's not too bad After all its only 3 days since my surgery

[@Greenfarmer25]

I go in November for surgery

[@xenadome]

Hi Donna. I had 2 rotatator cuff surgerys, one in end of August and one in beg of dec, I am completely healed . I had two difficult surgeries, due to the critical condition of the second arm that's why 2 arms done. I sure hope you recover soon, you are so sweet

[@SLU2]

I had a similar problem at 3 months into physical therapy (4 1/2 months after surgery) Felt like i retore it. Doctor gave me the cortisone shot after taking 4 weeks off of therapy. Went back into therapy 2 weeks after the shot and felt better. After 7 months of therapy, I'm done with the therapist and now will continue my strength training at the gym. Range of motion is great, Now have to build on strength... I also tore the rotator cuff and bicep. Thanks for your insight...

[@trevorcarl7]

What sometimes feels really good for me. I had both of my lebrums repaired and then developed impingement. Hang on a pull up bar and relax your arms for like 60 seconds it seems to creat space for the structures and give relief.

[@tjsogmc]

Thanks for your videos. I am two weeks away from my surgery. I had an ACL done years ago and it was a fairly straightforward recovery and I was expecting similar from the rotator. But from looking at your videos and others, it seems to be a whole different animal. Your videos are helping me to prepare for a long road ahead. Thanks!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Good luck to you!

[@karenmeador7807]

Yes ty please continue to do these! Don’t worry about discouraging us; the truth helps.

[@patriciabizic9404]

I have just loved your videos. I have used them as a bench mark. I appreciate that you continued with the recovery for a year. How about a new current video?

[@arius418]

I know! These were awesome benchmarks! So glad she made a new one after 3 yrs! I am at 7 mos. now, and had to stop PT at 4 mos. so this really gives me hope!

[@peterredfern2011]

Donna, I had my surgery done in January 2018. Rotator cuff surgery was done in Ajax, Ontario. I had a good result. I did months and months of physio. Good range of motion now, no pain, great sleeping now. It was a long journey but worth it.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

peter redfern, great to hear you are doing well!

[@carolclark1179]

I love watching your videos. I am a healthy 75 year old women and had rotator cuff surgery and I'm at 8 mos and doing good. I was released of PT therapy at 5 mos, but doing strengthening exercises at home and went back to gym. At gym I started with only two arm machine exercises at 10-15 lbs now up to 20-25 lb weights on machine. At 6-1/2 mos added to home exercises the 2lb dumbell weights, PT sent me 7 exercises to use. The dumbells really helped. After a couple of weeks I saw a major jump in strength in the use of my arm. More healing to be done but so happy the arm is getting stronger. I too am determined to get the arm back to normal. Your videos have encouraged me along the way and I want to thank you for all your information. Hope you are finally at a good place in your journey as I'm getting there. Thank you 🤗

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Carol, thank you for your comments! It sounds like you are doing great! I am doing very well, thank you!

[@valeriehagman4088]

Hi Donna, I have messaged you before here. I am now 6 months post op and I am doing really good. I am back to work and have been released by the Surgeon and physical therapist. I had a massive tear, full tear of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus and bicept tendon tear. My surgery was July 30 2019 and was off work for 5 months. I am so glad to be back to work, my surgeon said to still be careful for up to 6-9 months and even up to a year. I still do my exercises every day.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Dan, I'm glad to hear that you are doing well! Your surgeon is right, do not overdo it! Good luck to you!

[@amychaffin4138]

Thank you for these videos. 1 yr 2 days today. Still struggling but getting better every day. ❤

[@lleemcdermitt1892]

Hey Donna. I followed your videos before I had shoulder surgery in dec 2017. On the way to recovery and still have a lot of tightness and positional pain too. What I came across is a tennis size massage ball from Walmart. I put it on the counter top and I lean over on the massage ball with some pressure and I roll on it. Then puts on wall on my back of shoulder and roll up and down. It has actually help break up scar tissue and it really works. It’s great. 💕💕 thank u for the wonderful videos

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Great advice Lee!

[@tvaughn]

Hi Donna - trust you are doing well/better. Especially with all COVID-19 issues going on. I’m at 3 months after surgery. going to PT. Still in recliner as sleep is rough - I’m a side sleeper - and that side was the surgical side. Doing “OK” but still some pain. Expect it will take a while - surgeon said it can take up to 1 year. Anyway since you were so gracious posting all your videos - they were helpful. I’m keeping the faith - can’t go backwards anyway. I saw a post recently that said why don’t we put up Christmas decorations and call the years wrap (doubt my recovery will go that fast). All the best. Tom V

[@stephendesroches5912]

Thank you for the videos. I’m having rotator cuff surgery next month and these have been extremely helpful as I prep for it.

[@carlacochran3543]

Hi Donna, I listened to several of your videos before I had rotator cuff surgery on 5-1-17 & I appreciate the time you took to make them. If you have to have more surgery, please consider Sumant Krishnan, MD, of the Shoulder Center in the Baylor complex, downtown Dallas. This surgeon is the "clean-up surgeon" for failed repairs (other surgeons' screw-ups). Dr. Krishnan uses an "arthrotunneler" procedure developed at Baylor that ties the tendons & ligaments directly to the bone. At 5 months 2 days I have full range-of-motion & zero pain. I can do all the movements you demonstrated in this video. I was discharged from PT today. I have never encountered a surgeon like "Butch" Krishnan before - & I am an RN in the DFW area. He pays meticulous attention to detail & is contanly striving for perfection. I am told that Krishnan is one of the best in the US. He only wants 2nd+ surgeries, because he is so busy. I was a very simple case, with 3 massive tears & a torn ligament. He saw me as a 1st surgery because I had worked at Zale-Lipshy, & he had trained there for a while. I am so, so lucky. At 5 months, it is as if I had never had the injury & surgery. For 2nd + patients, if you can get to Dallas, there is hope.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Good to know! Thanks for the info Carla!

[@zerotrace000]

I can vouch for Dr. Krishnan as well. He is my doctor and an internationally known shoulder surgeon. He is the best in the business.

[@Yunianto73]

What a nice share, just passing 9 week and keep fighting..😊

[@Gajh2014]

I also had 3 tendons anchored down on the cuff and a bicep tenodesis .. I'm 1.5 yrs post-surgery... still achy, limited confidence to go all out as of yet.. had some setbacks after 6 months due to trying to push the limits a bit with weights.. I don't recommend that at 6 months. In fact I think this surgery takes 2 years if not longer to truly, fully heal completely and I have this feeling there will always be some pain and arthritis type sensation there.

[@melindahernandez8778]

Donna, I am so sorry that you are still feeling some pain. Totally sucks. I pray that you will be 100% better. Keep on Keeping On. I will be starting my surgery(4 weeks post op on my dominant arm) and I am inspired by you to give it my best and not settle for less!!!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Melinda Hernandez, I am doing great now and my shoulder is better than ever!

[@melindahernandez8778]

Donna that is AWESOME. YIPEEEE! Today was week 4 for me. My surgeon told me I was 50% better. I am going to start my therapy so that I can feel the same as he does...LOL.

[@lindaanndeisch7737]

12 days post op one handed typing. Thank you for taking the time over the last year to document your recovery. you gave a barometer of what is normal post op RCR/ and hope. I am a PTA and this keeping quiet is not easy. Scary and respectful of the SLOW tendon healing that is going on right now. amazing how time consuming taking care of my shoulder can be. . though I knew what to expect. the personal living of it is something else again. there was a big improvement in normal movement of your left shoulder from 10 months to the one year mark - hard earned. and well done. again, thank you for your videos/ also of note, your scapula substitution is evident in your early videos, as seen by arching your back and shoulder hiking. the shoulder is truly a complex joint. Linda Deisch

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Yes it is LInda! My scapular winging is still happening but to a lesser degree. It is something that I am still working on improving!

[@SoNJFF]

Mine is roughly 10 months post-surgery. I have some pains, but none more than from activity like normal day-to-day and then physical activities like surfing. My PT continues, on my own, stretching and strengthing a few times per week. My PT also said it is likely that some degree of stretching and strengthing will be needed on at least a limited basis always. Hope everyone recovers to their satisfaction, but don't give up on PT either supervised or on your own.

[@ThrasherTyler]

How is it now?

[@SoNJFF]

@@ThrasherTyler Hi, I feel it is actually stronger than my non-surgically repaired shoulder. I do a lot of stretching, but that is because I am able to continue surfing and don't want to be tight in shoulders

[@SoNJFF]

Hi, I feel it is actually stronger than my non-surgically repaired shoulder. I do a lot of stretching, but that is because I am able to continue surfing and don't want to be tight in shoulders@@ThrasherTyler

[@ronfosse2392]

Donna, I want to thank you for all of your videos, they really helped me throughout the process. I had both the rotator cuff surgery as well as reattachment of my bicep. Thanks for the tip about the ice machine. I am 8 months out and feel I am doing well. Thanks again for all your help!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Ron, you are welcome! I am so glad to hear that you are feeling well!

[@chuckhickey9721]

I watched your video when I had my surgery one year ago. Long story short I got an infection and had 3 total surgeries and then a pik line for 30 days…sucked but I soon realized no matter what you have SOMEONE always has something WORSE! Realeased from physical therapy and I am probably 95% back….hope you continue to improve 🙏♥️

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Chuck, that is so true! I’m so glad to hear that you are 95% back!

[@chuckcorbin7304]

Hi Donna. Thanks for the update. Glad to see you are doing better, hopefully the rest falls into place for you shortly. I am about 5 months out and it is amazing how the simple things seem to make major milestones for you. For me, the first time I put my own socks on and another was when I could sit up on the PT table without having to use the "good side". So I totally get the coat thing. Please make sure you let you pharmacist/Doctor that you are starting on some holistic meds, especially if you are on any prescriptions. The databases are not great on a lot of the holistic stuff but the may be able to cross check things for interactions. Please keep us posted as you finish your journey. Best of luck. Chuck

[@williamskauge2841]

Donna" I am 3wks till surgery Rt Rotary Cuff 90+ tear will know for sure after surgery, I'm 63yrs old and a little anxious, I fell forward at supplement income job so it's legally Comp but they are taken good care of me so far" My question is this" is the first 3-5 days the worse and since I'm am on opiates for chronic spinal stenosis and post laminectomy syndrome of surgeries done in the early 1990's do think that the meds since I'm taken them anyway will make it easier to manage the range use of shoulder masking symptoms, I will ask the Dr and Pt but I wanted to hear from a patient who knows the stiffness and tightness after surgery" don't know if or when your going to get this message, but I await to hear from You" Like I said I'm anxiously concerned and normally I don't worry or overly concern myself in over all thing's, but living along is quite intimidating" Thank You for your time, William from the Great Lake's State of Michigan, 25 miles from the Canadian border of Windsor, 6 blocks North of 8 mile Rd base line of Detroit"

[@funmakingmoneyify]

William Skauge, hello Michigan! The first 3 days are definitely the worst. It’s really hard for me to say how the current use of opiates will help as I wasn’t on anything like that before surgery. That would be a great question for your pain management doctor! Good luck to you and let me know how it goes!

[@vincentwestphal4521]

Hi Donna - I am a 74 year old male in what I would consider good health. About a year ago, I started feeling out of nowhere some signs of slight pain in my right shoulder, especially when reaching back to put my coat on or when reaching back in the passenger seat to get my seat belt. I thought it best to live with the discomfort and not involve medical treatment. About 6 months ago, my wife and I went on a 5-week cruise. On the first day aboard the ship (from an injury getting a heavy suitcase to the ship?), I developed such pain in my right shoulder that I was unable to lift my right arm at all (a combination of no strength and pain). I went to the ship's doctor and he said I had a muscle strain, and he gave me a list of simple exercises to do every day. When I got home 4+ weeks later, I went to my personal physician, and he put me through a battery of arm movements to try to pinpoint the injured muscle/tendon/etc. I had regained most of the angular movement of my right arm, but the two movements that were still painful (but now much more painful) were those mentioned originally. I had expected the doctor to say I needed shoulder surgery; but, he gave me a list of exercises to do. He said if the exercises did not help, then he would send me to a physical therapist. If the PT did not help, then he said surgery would probably be in order. After religiously following my doctor's exercise routine and adding additional exercises that I found on KZbin, I have regained the strength in my right arm, and my shoulder pain has all but gone away. I started watching your videos (from 6 years ago) just a few days ago, and your videos have convinced me that following my doctors conservative diagnosis and exercise routine was the right choice for me. I just watched your 1-year anniversary video, and while you were demonstrating the angular arm movements that you are now able to do, I have a wonderful yardstick to measure my improvement in regaining shoulder health. Only time will tell, but I hope I dodged the surgery bullet that you went through. You did an excellent job detailing your shoulder injury, what you went through after surgery and the timeline for healing, and condensed all that in just an hour or two of watching your videos. Now I have an excellent conception of what shoulder surgery is and what your 1-year outcome turned out to be. Thank you.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Vincent, that’s wonderful that you dodged needing surgery! I tried PT for 4 months and while it eliminated the pain, it was found to still have decreased strength and the surgeon felt I would set myself up to tear more tendons if I didn’t do the surgery. You, keep up the good work!💪🏻🙏🏻

[@williamlee6973]

I had similar surgery also. 7/8 months out and similar pain. Therapy stopped one month back, therapy on last progress report recommended having another MRI because I can’t lift my arm to the side and front higher than my chest. Sperotic pain, sometimes it’s sharp stab. This was a work related accident, and proper actions have been a battle. Workers comp has refused an MRI, and I’m trying to have a lawyer help me. I personally feel this is the new norm for me. I am 60 years old. Thank you for a little reference..

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Oh no! I hope that you get your MRI to see what is going on!

[@miguelx123x]

Thanks, this is helpful. I'm actually 6 days post op on my 2nd shoulder surgery. I had a slap tear fixed 2 years ago, but was still experiencing enough discomfort in my biceps tendon daily to warrant the surgery. Ended up doing a bicep tenodesis. 2nd times the charm...!

[@deborahhosein2535]

Appreciate this video. Infection set in at 9months post Supraspinatus tendon reattachment, AC spurr removal. Now recovering again after 2nd surgery to wash out with IV antibiotics for a month. Good to know the recovery process this time may progress as it wills.Thanks for the support!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

I’m so sorry to hear you had an infection, that is extremely painful! Glad to hear you are on the mend now!

[@swfm53]

I'm a 64 year old male. I fell on November 30 2019. I have a pacemaker and it took three weeks to get the mri. I have a massive rotor cuff all four tendons and ruptured the bicep tendon, all on my left shoulder. Surgery was January 2 2020. Doctor only repaired the 4 rotor cuff tendons, the bicep was to far towards my elbow, he said I can do without it. About 6 weeks as I type this. Just started passive physical therapy this week. The pain has been off the scale. Sleeping almost nonexistent. Really worried, Hoping for the best. I got off all pain medication 2 weeks ago. I do NOT want to take a chance of getting hooked on them. Wish us both the best. I'm a boat captain, not sure at this point I will be able to get back on the boat.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Randy Bryant, it’s just going to take some time for the boat. Good luck to you!

[@swfm53]

It's about 90% now. Not much pain

[@garytraylor5716]

Thanks Donna, I'm 1 week post op Rotator Cuff Surgery and your videos have been very helpful!

[@marylynch951]

Thank you Donna I have been following all of your videos Which I find very helpful I hope that you are recovering well Once again thank you so much

[@thehaven3258]

Hi from Australia. Very informative videos Donna. I had the same rotator cuff/bicep tenodeses surgery as you 6 months back and it has healed and strengthened extremely well. I actually went surfing at 22 weeks which required lots of paddling movement and a push up motion to get to my feet. So, to add to the pool of experience based knowledge here , I would advise anyone who lives in a warm climate to do some paddling on a large surfboard on still water beginning at around 20 weeks if green lighted by your physiotherapist...very good for stretching and strengthening. I also found that standing in an extra hot shower with the water stream focussed on the shoulder 4-5 times a day in the first few months was great...it may have even promoted healing with the heightened blood flow and it was definitely soothing. I was even doing that through the middle of sleepless nights early on to break up the monotony. Good luck everyone.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Thanks for your input Mark! I'm glad to hear of your success!

[@jacquelynwilson468]

Glad I watched your video today. I had rotator cuff surgery 8 months ago and I still have a hard time sleeping and can’t sleep on my surgery side. I just went to see my surgeon and he ordered an MRI-which I had yesterday. I am now waiting to hear from my doctor after he sees the MRI. I was getting discouraged - thinking at 8 months I shouldn’t still have pain. Seeing this video today reminds me that it can take up to a year or more to feel totally healed. So thank you fir this video- I will try to be more patient!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Yes, hang in there!

[@leahresler1963]

Hi Donna, thanks so much for sharing your story with us. I just had rotorcuf surgery 10 days ago. My rotorcuf was torn, 9mm. Repetitive motion from work, carrying heavy beverage trays at a casino for 26+ years can catch up with you. I am 54, have never had surgery before, very active and outdoorsy like you. This has been quite humbling for me, I am very independent and always active. I need to get back to work sooner than later, and will work very hard on my pt. I start 2 weeks after surgery. I have taken notes and have more questions for my surgeon when I see him this week. I hate not being able to sleep, but will keep in mind that this is temporary,and it always can be worse. Thanks for your words of encouragement. I hope at this time you are doing so well that it is out of your mind, especially when exercising. Best wishes for you!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Leah, thank you! I am doing very well and don't even think about that shoulder much at all! I know what you mean by being humbled because you do have to rely on help. You will get there! Take care.

[@homeagainfarm]

Thank you so much for your videos! I am a 70 year old woman who may be facing rotator cuff surgery soon. I will find out soon if my surgeon thinks that I am a candidate. I have two complete tears, another partial tear, a bicep tendon tear, a labrum problem and a bone spur in the OC joint. Mine was wear and tear from years of work with horses. Thank you for sharing your journey. I am sure that it has helped many people.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

homeagainfarm, you are most welcome! Keep me posted!

[@homeagainfarm]

​@@funmakingmoneyify, when I saw my surgeon he told me that my tears were too extensive and old (therefore brittle) for surgery to be likely to succeed. So no surgery for me. When I am too miserable to cope, I will be a candidate for a reverse shoulder replacement. Hoping you are doing well!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

@@homeagainfarm, well I hope you can manage for a long while before needing the replacement. FYI, the shoulder replacement surgery is a faster recovery than the tendon repairs!

[@MamaD-ll6mo]

So happy i found this . This helps alot. Encouragement is what i need from someone who is going thru. Thanks soooo much.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

You are welcome! Hang in there, and it will get better. Just remember that it's a slow recovery...

[@CreativeChaos13]

Been checking your video updates, feeling hopeful, but same time, slightly deflated, I'm one month PO, looks like I have a LONG way to go. Thanks for sharing your info and experience.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

nwmissy88, hang in there!

[@dennisconlon5810]

Donna Westermeier hello my name is Dennis, I had my shoulder done 16 weeks ago. Don’t worry, as long as you do your exercises each week you will improve. It may not happen as fast as you want it to but it will happen.

[@mikeloosemore3889]

Thanks so much i had rotator and bicep tendonesis 8 weeks ago , just got out of sling, have slight pinching pain, and can't wait to someday get back to everyday weights..am always worried about re-tearing..im going crazy not being able to do what i want..im 53 and hoping i will have no issues..physical therapy 3 days week..they say im right on or ahead schedule,i dnt feel so confident..i wont ever do surgery again if something goes wrong i will deal with doing what i can..thanks for your videos..hope all goes well for you

[@sandykalosky7446]

You are inspiring! Thank you for all your insights and your positive outlook on life. I am less than a week post-op. I have found your videos to be very instructive and I count my blessings that you took the time to make these video blogs ,

[@funmakingmoneyify]

You are welcome Sandy! It is people like you that make me glad that I did them! I hope your recovery goes smoothly!

[@BCal12345]

Thank you Donna for your efforts in making these videos. I have been living with a rotator cuff tear for many years now. Cortisone injections have kept me going but the last one did not work. Since Christmas I have not slept for more then a couple of hours at a time and wake up in total agony. This Wednesday I will be meeting with a surgeon to review my MRI and my options. I can now go in with a better knowledge thanks to you. Good luck to you.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Bruce, it sounds like it is finally time for surgery. Good luck and keep me posted!

[@joelgrieshaber207]

I'm still encouraged to do the surgery; I'm active at 67. I want to be able to continue repairing (push, pull, lift, sew, rivet, hammer, drill), Drum (musician), dance, swim, run, paraglide, and engage in self defense training. Without pain, and with strength!! Life is full of gambles and I feel this surgery is worth taking a chance on.

[@flowerpower9541]

All the activities u describe is what I like to do, doesn't this video give you pause?. I she sounds like at a YEAR she's having problems. I'm sooo discouraged and I just had it done

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Yes, you are way too active to not have this surgery so that you can get back to your active lifestyle!

[@cinfrench3755]

Hi Donna. I have watched all your videos . Very helpful and spot on. I am 7 months post op. Wow. I also feel I should be further along. There was a lot wrong but perhaps not exactly like yours. I started out having severe arthritis and the the air bag tore my rotator cuff in a car accident and labrum tear. The pain of course is not as it was but nags more than anything and some movements are jerky and primarily in the front. I call it snap crackle and pop shoulder. I can now sleep on that side and am alittle sore upon waking. But even tho I can put glasses in the cupboard now I find bending and picking something up even if it's light causes a pain. Not a 10 but a 4 at least. Your videos have shown me patience. So I hope to be at 1 year much further. The journey continues. At 64 I wouldn't do this again. I would have my 6 children and the hysterectomy again before this. Gravity isn't your friend with shoulder repairs either I have found. By the end of day I ache. Still love my ice pack. Thank you again for your help.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

You are welcome Cin! Hang in there, it will continue to get even better!

[@davemurray9847]

Love the videos. Had rotator cuff surgery, Feb. 2018. Tore rotator cuff doing dips. Very active with tennis, kayaking and weights before. Did much therapy on my own after 2 months, swimming, stretches, etc.. Fast forward to May 2019 - no pain, light weights - bench 200 pounds a few time but mostly 135 - 180 6 - 15 times. Only weakness is pull ups - can only do 3 at this point. Sleeping fine - no chiropractor for me as I'm very active again. Now, if the knees would start hurting. So, good luck all.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Dave, that is so great to hear how well you are doing! Bummer about the knees! Have you looked at prolotherapy? Google it to see if it would be helpful for your knees.

[@ralphy6526]

Thanks for sharing your progress. I'm only in my fourth week, sleeping is an issue. I'm 73 years old in decent shape. I think my recovery will be a little slower, but hopefully I will have your enthusiasm.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Ralphy, you’re going to do great!

[@antonioollisondonell3657]

I just had a surgery done to my arm rotator cuff with a titanium plate placed in my shoulder screwed to my arm.

[@florencecathcart9588]

Hi Donna. I see that your update was posted in 2017 and am curious as to how you are doing now. I was sorry to hear you still had pain after one year but it kind of encouraged me. My surgery was Jan. 15, 2019 (its now June). I was immobilized for 4 weeks. I initially went to P.T. 2-3 times a week until I realized that the therapists were spending about 10 minutes actually with me, then having me do exercises on my own without even supervising so I started doing my exercises at home. I had someone tell me that during their knee therapy they heard people screaming from the shoulder therapy they were getting. Let me tell you, if that is happening, that therapist does not know what they are doing. You should be stretching to the point of pain. If you keep going with pain you will be causing more inflammation and pain for yourself. My therapist tried stretching my arm above my head too far and the pain was excruciating and I would not let him range me again. I went to an Occupational Therapist and the first thing she did was work on freeing my scapula (shoulder blade) which was stuck. If that doesn't glide, you will only cause yourself pain trying to reach over your head. I was getting discouraged with progress until I saw this video! At 5 months, I can reach my arm up to about the same height as my non-operated arm and to the side about 10 degrees less. I can reach behind me as far as my waist. I still hook my bra in front and turn it around. I have no pain but at the end ranges my shoulder is still stiff. I did my exercises every single day faithfully for 3 months, sometimes more than once a day. The last month I have not been as faithful --you do get tired of doing them--but I notice that my shoulder gets more stiff if I don't do them. I'm 75 so it may always be a little stiff. Good luck to everyone and thank you for all your comments. They do help. And thank you, Donna, for all your tips and information!

[@davem6351]

Hi Donna, I commented back in the summer 2019 about my progress a few months out from surgery. Everything looked great. I had great flexibility, able to reach behind my back for my opposite shoulder blade. Strength: could do some push ups and progressed to handstands at six months. But at four months my PT decided I didn't need therapy anymore and I could come up with my own home exercise program. The first week I strained my serratus using a Body Blade. And at 6 1/2 months I strained my rear deltoid doing an external rotation exercise. That set me back two months and definitely slowed me down. Now coming to 11 months, I'm pretty much back to normal or better. Full range of motion, the arm is nearly as strong as the other. Doing sets of push ups, handstands, etc. I envy how often you were able to go to PT. I was limited to once a week and almost thrown out after 15 visits. Ultimately it's been a long process and it really only matters where you are at the end of it. My deltoid injury was probably a godsend: it proved the two completely torn tendons were stronger than the deltoid and it slowed me down so I did every exercise properly. I hope your recovery is near its completion and your shoulder is back to normal.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Dave M, my shoulder is back to normal and I have no restrictions! Sorry to hear about your setbacks but happy to hear you are doing well!

[@garycortesi8406]

Had mine 5 weeks ago. My doctor didn’t do nerve block. No sling. He said just keep my arm at side. Can bend at elbow. No physical therapy until 10 weeks. We’ll see.

[@katehogan1134]

thanks so much for this series. you give me such hope! I am at 10 weeks and have about the same range of motion you had at that time. I am getting frustrated but this video has definitely helped my mind set so thank you thank you thank you. I too cant really get my hand behind my back but can get most all other ROM. my problem is I am only two weeks back to work and the muscle spasms I get are worse than post surgery so THATS an eye opener. but all in all I am doing really well. I have been doing turmeric all along so go for the curcumin ( same plant) it works! the only pain I have had is now that I am back to work. again thanks!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

kate hogan, you are welcome! It sounds like you’re coming along just fine.😉

[@michaelbrown-dk2wm]

Thank you. You are so personable. I am going in for a completely detached supraspinatus soon. You are so reassuring.

[@vpp9643]

Hello Donna, Thank you so much for your videos. I am very grateful about your advices for the surgery, especially in your first video. I got hurt at volleyball and had a 50-60% suprasupinatus tear that needed to be repaired. A few days before my surgery, I found your videos and followed many of your tips for the post-op days, like buying the Kodiak ice machin and lavanda oil. The ice therapy helped me A LOT and I healed much faster because of it. The road to recovery was fine physically, but difficult mentally. I had the surgery in june 2017 and was completely recovered after about 6 months. Now, I am back to the gym and the volleyball at 110%. I was very anxious before the surgery and your videos were very helpful and reassured me in my experience. I want to say THANK YOU and I hope also that at this time, you are recovered just as you want and that you can finally say « I feel fantastic! » Take care, Vinh

[@funmakingmoneyify]

VP PHAM, I am so happy for you that you have fully recovered!

[@Jackknifegyp]

VP PHAM Which surgeon did the procedure?

[@vpp9643]

Jackknifegyp I live in Montreal, Canada. My surgeon was Dr Marc Beauchamp. He is fantastic.

[@Jackknifegyp]

Thank you. I need reattach of the inner bicep tendon up top, and a fix on an undetermined injury of my left shoulder. I've found one in Wake Forest NC that has done both and I am scheduling a visit ASAP. But I am very reluctant to have surgery here in the U.S. as I have nearly died, or been rendered incapacitated by American Doctors and surgeons three times, now. Each made my original problems far worse. I have time to research my best bets, and appreciate your feedback.

[@jonnettemaslowski258]

Hi, Donna. Thank you for sharing your experience. I had shoulder surgery, rotator cuff and biceps tenodesis January 2021. Unfortunately, I continued to have extreme pain; I never felt like I was getting better. I kept telling the surgeon and therapists that something did not seem right. So for six months I kept going to PT and do daily exercises. Finally, after six months I had another MRI to discover the same tear that was repaired was now completely torn. I found a new surgeon and had repeat surgery October 2021. This surgery was much better, and my ROM is good considering I just passed my four month mark. I am still in PT and doing a lot of strength exercises and working out at home. This past week I am very sore. I don’t want to take pain medication if at all possible. I did play doubles tennis one time for an hour, but I seemed to be fine. I’m just sore and I’m thinking maybe the PT is too aggressive. I see my surgeon in two days. I’m 70 years old, but active and in good health. I’ve just been scarred from this whole experience. Sleeping is challenging and I just don’t want to do any damage again. I feel like I want another MRI just for my peace of mind. I feel for everyone who has and is going through this. Thank you for sharing and helping us be positive. I know it could be worse.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Jonnette, okay you’re my hero! I don’t think I would have played tennis 4 months out! You are brave! What a terrible experience you had with the first surgery and I can’t totally understand why you are worried. It’s normal to backslide a little, especially when you overdue it. Take it a little easier!❤️

[@justoarellano7518]

Like watching your videos, had similar work done on my right shoulder,going on 8 months of therapy, shoulder was fine with pain at about a 2, but started to do work conditioning, which is 5 hours of pt 5 days a week and my shoulder started to hurt a little more, glad to of seen your video to motivate to hang in there, thanks

[@lizzier2134]

Hi Donna - I’m only a week a half after surgery. Biceps Tenodesis and several rotator tendon repairs plus biologic mesh cap.. This is a complicated procedure and recovery so I thank you for all the great advice, especially the Suzanne Somers three way top, the Tei Fu massage creme and the arnica recommendations. Icing has been key too. I was lucky enough to have access to a Game Ready machine so all i had to do was purchase the shoulder accessory that I will sell on ebay when I’m done with it. Your journey and recommendations been so helpful and the best in class on KZbin. I so hope you’ve improved since your last posting.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Liz Renninger, I’m glad the videos were helpful; I am doing great!

[@2004marmar]

I'm setting here in my recliner with my ice machine on at 14 weeks post op watching your video.. thanks for your info 😊

[@antonioollisondonell3657]

I must say that I had reconstruct surgery with metal plate and 9 screws in bolted to my arm and shoulder. July 17th and Nov 1st the Doctor feels that I should go back to work.im I'm a janitorial and grounds keeper for a high school....

[@antonioollisondonell3657]

I still to day don't have use of my arm.

[@antonioollisondonell3657]

I want a second opinion

[@gospelbarndoraalabama6821]

Your videos are very helpful. I’ve almost at the 2 week post op dealing with pain and discomfort plus the night sleep. I had a large tear in top of rotor cuff, bicep tendon re anchored and some cartilage repaired in glenoid labrum. Thanks for the videos

[@funmakingmoneyify]

You are most welcome! I pray your recovery goes smoothly.

[@maryfair5855]

Cortisone, though it may provide pain relief, can inhibit healing of tissue. My surgeon wouldn’t even do rotator cuff surgery on me until at least two months had passed from a cortisone injection I’d had. I’m going to be more judicious in the future about getting injections.

[@kdssap01]

Thank you very much again - I am before surgery and you made me feel good about my decision.

[@prapovy]

Hi Donna, thanks for all your videos. iam getting my rotator cuff done on Halloween. 10/31/19. you helped take a lot of the unknowns, away. Thanks and its appreciated greatly. hope your recovery is going great.

[@shakia000]

I’m having my rotator cuff repair the same day too. Good luck 😁

[@scottgriffith7759]

I am at month 14 and I am still noticing that my shoulder repair is still getting better and stronger. It takes a lot of time. This week I am having the other shoulder repaired so I get to do it all over again. Oh boy!!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Scott Griffith “Oh boy” is right! Good luck to you!

[@scottgriffith7759]

@@funmakingmoneyify This one wasn't near as bad as the first one. I guess I knew what to expect, what to do and not to do and it's gone much better.

[@hotgirlstokes]

Hi Donna, Thank you for the information that you have provided in the videos they are very much appreciated. I’m having rotator cuff surgery in February and I’m a little nervous but I’m tired of being in pain. So I️ have taken notes from all your videos and will keep posted on I’m doing. God bless you!!!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Kenya, You are very wise to get as much information as possible before surgery so that you are prepared! I am praying for great results for you!

[@janedevoldre6613]

Great video series!! I’m starting week 3 so this is good for me to see what may lie ahead! Thanks so very much, Donna! I’m in Rochester.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Howdy neighbor!

[@petervargas8474]

Good morning Donna.your videos have been an encouragement to me. It’s been a bit over a month since my rotator cuff surgery am a bit discouraged about being so limited. Got a couple of screws in my tendons and bone and still painful and using my sling per my doc’s advise. I’ll be seeing him again next week and setting up some PT. Looking forward to regaining my strength and flexibility again.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Peter, all that you are experiencing is normal. Hang in there, it's a slow, long recovery.

[@petervargas8474]

Hi again Donna. Yeah, I’m finally scheduled to do PT next week and am so looking forward to it. Thanks again for your valuable videos.

[@robynwarnock6009]

Hi Donna. I've now just hit the 9 month mark. I've slowed up with physio but really need remedial massages. I go every 9 or 10 days as I'm getting really tight muscles in my back and down my side. They always give me Accupunture before massaging me. They put the needles into the tightest spots. I find it really helps with pain and softens my muscles. I really recommend Accupunture. You should really give it a try. Just hang in there Donna. God Bless.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Thanks Robyn, I am going to try it!

[@LeonoreAlaniz]

thank you for sharing your challenges. I learned much from your experience and courage. best wishes for full recovery. I have not had surgery and may be able to avoid it: I received two energy healing treatments, from healer-intuitives, with each giving partial improvements. I also made Castor bean packs as recommend by Edgar Cacye, and self massages with Peanut oil that contains Sassafras extract.

[@ancientknowledge525]

I cannot lift my arm and may need surgery but for me it's a last resort because I've had spine surgeries and one specific wasn't a cake walk and I'm still not fully healed from my spine surgery 2 years ago and that caused further issues long term.. 1 surgery can lead you to more surgeries. My brother had 5 tears, one full tear and didn't require surgery.. He was 39 and an athlete and honestly in better shape then I am. I can't lift a coffee cup off the counter because of my frozen shoulder, my arm doesn't move much at all and I'm only 35. Waiting on the MRI, they suspect tears and also thoracic outlet syndrome. But right now I have almost no range of motion in my arm and shoulder.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

www.egoscue.com/find-therapy/egoscue-new-york-city/ If you have watched my most recent video, I would suggest that you contact the Egoscue Clinic and see if they can help you!

[@ElmoKnowsWhereYouLive5150]

I'm two days out from my surgery. I'm looking forward to getting to a year like you.

[@TheOnelov]

Love your videos. They are becoming very helpful for me. I am currently 11 days post op. I stopped pain meds after one week. I dont wear my sling unless i leave my house. I havent started pt yet. I go tomorrow to get my bandages off and stiches out and should know then when i am supposed to start pt. I havent done any exercises but i have been moving my arm more and more each day. Today being 11 days post op i was able to wash my hair with both hands. Yay

[@funmakingmoneyify]

TheOnelov, great! It sounds like you’re making progress!

[@richarddockery3841]

Having surgery in May. Needless to say I’m not excited with the road ahead. Thanks for the videos!

[@jasiahhill3133]

How is physical therapy is it very painful ?

[@richarddockery3841]

Josiah, I’m on day 74 of 180. I’m in week 11. Next week I can start some weight training w/ bands. This is a marathon, not a sprint. That’s the best advice. It’s frustrating at times, but looking back now it’s worth it. Physical therapy is a process. Some days are better than others, and injuries vary. Painful? Yep, but it’s loosening the scar tissue. The next day you have better range of motion. Results vary, but so far, so good. I’m now finding out, that this is more a 365 day recovery....Good Luck! All the best!

[@jasiahhill3133]

@@richarddockery3841 how is it now ?

[@richarddockery3841]

@@jasiahhill3133 good! 6 months out. Key is the therapy!

[@knowledge1873]

Thanks for sharing your experience, I hope you get very well.

[@6actual911]

I'm at 15 weeks after full rotator cuff tear, bicep muscle snip and some other lateral something. It is amazing listening to you because my pain is just like yours, identical in all positions you described. And yes I have watched all of your videos and they really have helped me. Especially in the beginning!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Well then you can rest assured that you will continue to improve! Just keep doing your physical therapy exercises!

[@larrywheeler9917]

Why did your surgeon snip your bicep? Does that mean your bicep is just dead ?

[@nancymonicke6773]

Donna, I really love your videos. I learned a lot. I am 8 weeks after surgery. I am in physical therapy and seem to be improving. I am also recommending your videos to friends and others on Facebook to check out your videos. Best I found on internet. thanks again for your info.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Thanks Nancy!

[@carry1955]

Thanks Donna...... I'll keep you updated and also mention you on my video if that's ok?👍👍

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Yes, that is fine Carry!

[@danielmohler131]

Nancy Monicke P

[@tplayer53]

Hello Donna I'm new to your videos on any of them did you describe how you tour the rotator cuff and was this what they call a massive tear 4 centimeters or more

[@moniqueh4603]

Hello, Donna. Thank you for these informational videos. I was injured at work, had an MRI said I have chronic massive rotator cuff tearing of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendon with associated medial myotondinus retraction and muscle atrophy. I saw the orthopedic this morning. He told me he could make no promises that the surgery would make me better. It's a process , but if I don't get the surgery, it could get worse. It's scary. I don't know what I should do, but I'm in pain daily with the use of my arm. Idk Has anyone here who has had the surgery had success with positive results? A year to 2 yrs after. Doing and happy they had the surgery? Thank you. From California .😊

[@funmakingmoneyify]

I was told that my tears would not heal on their own and by not getting surgery that I could risk more tears. I can definitely say that it was worth it for me. My shoulder is stronger than ever!

[@skeith9231]

Donna. Thank you for your videos. I watched them before I had a rotator cuff surgery and bicep repair, and afterwards as well. They really helped and felt encouraged. I had exactly the same symptoms after surgery. After 2 months I had pain and could not seem to progress in therapy. I could not sleep either. Surgeon mentioned that I could be 1 in 20 whose body tries to heal quickly and could be producing too much scar tissue. So he suggested a second surgery before reaching 12 weeks to go in a break the scar tissue. It was quick and was in therapy the very next day. OMG, the pain was gone and the arm finally moved the very next day. It has been a year now and I am pain free. Surgeon mentioned he had only seen this case in another female patient in our age range. Wonder if this is a possibility. Too much scar tissue preventing the repair being 100% effective.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Sofia Keith, that is very interesting. I wonder if that has been my problem!

[@sverigeresan1150]

Hi. Wow! In for operation tomorrow your videos really showed me a real good picture of what to expect. Having an similar operation. Thanks.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Urban Nilsson, hope all went well!

[@terimyers4814]

Your viedos are great help! I am just 3 weeks out from surgery, have been feeling frustrated. Your viedos helped alot. Thank you!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Teri, I'm glad they helped you! Hang in there!

[@jamesjordan454]

10 days out and also tired and frustrated. Going in the right direction just really slow

[@leddie9]

Sad that you are not pain free after a year. Glad you are otherwise doing great. Thanks for your story. I'm at 6 weeks after reconnecting two tendons (Superspinatus and subscapularis). My bicep tendon was damaged too, but that surgery too scary and fortunately optional in my case. Relatively pain free especially when taped. Almost full range of motion but little strength or endurance yet. My physical therapist said I'm doing well and I'm optimistic to resume my active life style during first year. I miss skiing this winter but like you decided that falling was too great a risk my first winter. Optimistic to resume kayaking and swimming this summer. Glad I opted for surgery and I feel I"m better now than before my surgery. But I wish I had less pain when not taped. Best wishes to you for a full, pain free, recovery.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Thanks Ed, I am glad you are doing well! I would be thrilled if I were just pain free! But I am still optimistic.

[@leddie9]

Hi again Donna. Hope you have progressed past the residual pain stage. I'm now nearly six months post surgery, which means I'll have my surgeons ok to gently resume my pre-accident life. I've got most of my range of motion back and largely pain free, but my fitness level as a long way to go to return to my pre-accident state. Since that state was a personal best and I just turned 65 years of age, that will be challenging. I've been asked to teach Zumba again, so that is also motivating me, and reminds me how much fitness I've lost while disabled. As per pain, I found the cold laser my chiropractor used helped a lot. That and the tape greatly helped with residual pain.

[@leddie9]

Hi again Donna. Just lead my first Zumba class in five years. Like sixty hours of preparation for a half hour class. Was it worth bringing back my shoulder pain along with all the effort to retrain myself to lead the class? The happiness and appreciation of my class of about twenty made that a resounding for sure! Now to recover and prepare a hour long class for next Monday. Happiness is. Hope you are also able to resume your pre accident life soon.

[@JuliaT2009]

Donna, I finally have my surgery date- - Sept 17th. Your videos will really help me to prepare. Hope all is well with you and your shoulder!

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Julia, I am doing great! Good luck with your surgery and feel free to ask any questions you may have.

[@theovanantwerpen]

hai Donna,thanks for yr adventure reports, like yr arms haha.I was waiting 'where is the backfall,in the beginning.course I had also some turning back things.Felt so good that I thought that it wouldn't hurt.Wrong.Its so fragile!!One time carrying two cases water(3rdfloor) and the last time carrying a heavy garbitch bag ten seconds(had to lock the door ).Also turning back on the road with my car gives pain next day!!What my therapist said it was not teared.He said there wil come moister on the overload spot and thats coursing pain in the small area.You feld from a stair,I tried to stop my motorbike from falling over(I stood stil in the middle of the country).I also felt nothing for a long time and suddenly it started to pain.Like you I'm also active and the orthopeed sad better do the surgery now,becaue when you are older it won't grow back.(I'm 62 play every day piano and guitar, sporting and like driving my bike).You are much younger,but like you,I'm now 3 and a1/2 month further and also think,before I could do al things whiteout pain and now I feel everything.its going better than after the operation, but its like you said, it wil take the full monty.minimum 1 year and what I see from you and its similar with me(supraspinatus 8mm and he cutted the small biceps head,(sitting in the way off the supraspinatus)should be better for revalidation ,the anchor screw can tear off or break out, with a lot of trouble).you did not mention that they cut your small head biceps???they sad it has not much function,17% los from max force, but they did not say also less direction losses, what I see now.Its toff Donna and I see you troubleing,its tof and boring.its an old shoe what you wanna get rit off and it sticks.hopefully you can swim now, thats also what I like.much love and courage Donna and keep up.Theo...(amsterdam)

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Thanks Theo. I believe it was the long head of the bicep that they repaired.

[@mduntr7503]

I'm one week post after surgery and I'm doing pretty well, don't wear the shoulder sleeve, actually stopped wearing the shoulder sleeve after 3 days after surgery... I also stopped taking the pain meds after 3 days... My physical therapist can't believe how fast I'm recovering... But also, right after the third day after surgery I started workingout everyday, more doing legs and riding my stationary bike... I guess it's all about how active you are and don't just sit in a chair all day... So I hope your doing better...

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Wow! That is amazing! I'm glad for you; you are definitely an anomaly!

[@micheleminish4062]

Donna, thank you so much for the videos. I am 7 weeks post op. I had two full thickness tears and a large tear in my bicep. They repaired the tears but released the bicep tendon. I’m worried I’ll loose a lot of strength in my arm because of the release. My job requires lifting up to 70 lbs and constant movement of arm. But this week I’m doing better with movement, there may be light at the end of the tunnel. Lol. Your videos have been a huge help. Thanks for sharing and I hope you are doing well these days.

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Michele, My biggest advice is to not rush into lifting too much too fast. You do not want to re-injure yourself! Good luck with your recovery!

[@larrywheeler9917]

Did your bicep strength ever come back? I'm 7 weeks out and my bicep looks like a 90 year on my "repaired" arm.

[@biglazyjackson8832]

Hello and thank you Donna. I had the similar surgery to my right shoulder. My surgeon strung me along for a few months before deciding to give me the same surgery. Gave a Cortisone shots DEEP inside my damaged shoulder. Til finally those shots stopped working. Which brought me to surgery in 2005. Rehab for a month plus few weeks. Surgeon gave me the clear, now continue speech.. In 2007 I returned to Forklift Operating.. I as you felt, thee awareness of my shoulder, but continued on. I soon felt ok. I learned to manipulate me using and working with my injuries.. ( tendens ripped, cuff ripped,muscles ripped) .. I soon learned that I would be sacred for life. I dealt and learned. Moving and working now 2018 I am feeling the 2 months after surgery Pains again. I am sorry for not finding you and your story sooner!! Your videos are very much appreciated Donna!! You are a TRUE SOLDIER!!!!! Although after 12-13 years after shoulder fix?/shoulder surgery? I'm feeling soon after pains and reminders of my shoulder. I have looking and asking for exercises that I shoulder use to build up muscles all around my shoulder. I wish you soo much luck Grace and pain free days/nights my FELLOW SUPER AMAZING BEAUTIFUL SHOULDER WARRIOR!!!!! LIVE LOVE LIFE TO IT'S FULLEST WARRIOR!!!! GOD BLESS!!!! AND KEEP ON PUSHING MY LOVE!!!!!! 💖🤗😘👸💖💖💖💖👊🏽👊🏽✊🏽🤗😘👸👌🏽💖💖💖💖💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯🌟✔

[@funmakingmoneyify]

Aww, thank you!

[@chipcook6646]

Donna, if you didn't do the surgery your arm will eventually fall apart. I waited 17 years to do mine I'm on week 3 right now from the surgery. I haven't thrown a baseball in 17 years. I didn't want to do the surgery but eventually you have to and then it's going to take longer to recover.