OpenHealth Q&A

Should I Consider Shoulder Surgery?

At 28 years old, I've faced a significant challenge with my right shoulder. My first shoulder dislocation occurred in late 2017 during a casual game of five-a-side football. While sprinting, I suddenly collided with the cage wall; in an attempt to break my fall, I extended my right arm, which led to my shoulder dislocating. After an hour of waiting at the hospital, the medical team successfully relocated it on the first try. The doctors suggested physiotherapy to strengthen my shoulder, which was feasible for me, given my physically demanding job that likely helped in my recovery. Fast forward to May 2024, and I experienced a second dislocation. Between the two incidents, my shoulder performed well; I was weightlifting and participating in demanding sports, like squash, without any issues. To my surprise, the second dislocation happened at a nightclub while my friends and I attempted to lift one of our buddies for a crowdsurf. The awkward angle and sudden weight caused my shoulder to pop out again. Just as before, I went through the routine of visiting the hospital and endured the X-ray process both before and after the relocation. Although a volunteer paramedic offered to help, they refused, citing safety concerns. The recovery was similar to before, focusing on physical therapy and exercises involving resistance bands. I also participated in gym workouts, but I limited myself to machine exercises to ensure stability. After undergoing an MRI, the results indicated a possible torn labrum. Despite the tear, surgery was not immediately recommended, so I focused on rehabilitation. In March 2025, a third dislocation occurred while throwing a tennis ball with considerable force and range of motion. It slipped out rather violently, and I found the pain considerably worse than with previous incidents. The process of relocating my shoulder this time was fraught with difficulty, requiring several attempts and, at one point, sedation was suggested. Ultimately, it took four attempts before it was successfully reset, and I experienced moments of faintness during the ordeal. After this dislocation, I was back to the usual rehabilitation routine, but the sensation in my shoulder felt distinctly different; I could sense the muscles and structures more than in previous instances. This time, the conversation with the shoulder surgeon turned serious, as he confirmed the labrum tear and pointed out an indentation in the bone visible from the X-ray. The surgical procedure discussed would be a minimally invasive keyhole surgery. They would first evaluate the shoulder internally, determining if repair was necessary. If so, I would be required to wear a brace for two months and undergo a rehabilitation period that would keep me away from physical activities for around four months. If not, the procedure would be quicker, entailing just a week in a brace. This information left me anxious about the lengthy recovery timeline, fearing it would impact my ability to work and exercise, both of which are essential for my mental well-being. When I inquired whether individuals with labrum tears could recover without surgery, the surgeon shared that it was indeed possible, provided I committed to rehabilitation and strength training. However, it felt like the decision to proceed with surgery was ultimately mine. My main hesitation stemmed from the extensive recovery period and its potential effects on my professional and personal life. Then, on July 5, 2025, the fourth dislocation happened in an unexpected moment as I opened my loft window and jerked backward to swat away a fly. Again, the hospital process unfolded as before, and thankfully, it was relocated successfully on the first attempt. Nevertheless, this time the pain felt more acute, akin to the discomfort of stretching a muscle beyond its limit, but with a raw sensation underlying it. Given the frequency of dislocations, the torn labrum, and the concerns surrounding continual shoulder instability and bone indentation, I am leaning toward surgery as the most prudent course of action. What are your thoughts or recommendations based on my experiences? I have an offer for the surgery until November 2025 and must decide within this timeframe.

Answers (1)

7/10/2025, 10:01:47 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you’ve been through quite a lot with your shoulder over the years, and I can understand your anxiety about surgery and the recovery process. Given your history of recurrent dislocations and the labrum tear, surgery could indeed help stabilize your shoulder and improve your quality of life moving forward. Let's break this down for clarity:

Key Considerations:

1. Recurrent Dislocations: You've experienced multiple dislocations, indicating ongoing instability, which is concerning and can lead to further damage over time.
2. Labrum Tear: The MRI results show a tear that can contribute to both pain and instability, and repairing it can significantly reduce the risk of future dislocations.
3. Surgical Options: The minimally invasive surgery aims to repair both the labrum and any bone indentation, which can enhance shoulder stability.

Recovery Concerns:

I understand that a lengthy recovery could impact your work and personal activities. However, consider that without surgery, the risk of further dislocations and additional damage could ultimately lead to more prolonged complications and potentially more time off in the future.

Prioritized Next Steps:

1. Reflect on Your Activities: Consider how often your shoulder dislocates and whether your current activities (sports, work) compromise your shoulder stability. If your lifestyle includes physically demanding tasks, surgery may better prepare you for these activities long-term.

2. Communicate with Your Surgeon: Discuss your specific concerns about the recovery process. Ask about:

   • Potential for quicker recovery measures or rehabilitation options to help ease your transition back to normal activity.
   • Strategies to adapt your work and personal life during recovery.

3. Consider a Second Opinion: If you still feel uncertain, seeking a second opinion from another orthopedic surgeon might provide additional insights into your situation and restore your confidence in the decision-making process.

4. Commit to a Rehabilitation Plan: If you decide on surgery, ensure you're prepared to stick closely to the rehabilitation plan. This commitment can significantly improve your outcomes and may speed up the return to normal activity.

5. Mental Preparation and Support: Consider engaging with a counselor or support group to process any anxiety about surgery and recovery. Having coping strategies can greatly aid your mental well-being during this transition.

In summary, while the prospect of surgery and recovery might feel daunting, weighing the risks of ongoing shoulder instability against the potential benefits can help guide your decision. Prioritizing your long-term health and ability to engage in activities you enjoy is crucial. Take the time you need to make a well-informed choice that aligns with your lifestyle and goals.