← Return to Rotator Cuff full tear and retraction of supraspinatus tendon

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@mrsflutterby

I didn’t mention a few things: I also had the full thickness tear of the supraspinitus tendon, did “pre-PT” which made me stronger but did not help the continuing pain, sleep problems and inability to manage normal grab, reach and lift chores without pain. The pre-PT made the surgery recovery easier and placed me ahead of the game physically during recovery. I think anyone you talk to will tell you it is a very long recovery. Patience is a test we all struggle with when it comes to getting back to normal. However, my angel PT told me that I had to reconcile a very long recovery with not feeling the bad pain anymore and having better function. So I have had to ask for help, ask for rides, depend on my husband to do the grocery shopping and some cooking, etc. Each week I see improvement with my range of motion and strength but they estimate 3-6 months of recovery. A friend of mine was not a very good patient, took the sling off early, stopped PT and is now back in PT with a re-tear. Seeing that I knew I had better follow the rules.

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Replies to "I didn’t mention a few things: I also had the full thickness tear of the supraspinitus..."

Many years ago I had rotator cuff surgery as well as repair of a SLAPP tear, and I recall how I felt following the procedure as well as the physical therapy. I understand how hard it can be to ask others for help, especially when we are used to being so independent. Someone told me a few months ago that it was okay to be selfish as opposed to being selfless, a way I have lived most of my life. The recovery for me was also a long one, but once I completed the therapy I knew that being patient with myself, as well as asking for help paid off in the long run.
Best of luck to you.

Did you have the supraspinatus tendon reattached? I have a full-thickness tear with tendon retraction which makes reattachment problematic.

@mrsflutterby
Thank you for your post. My MRI on my left shoulder is scheduled next week, but of course, I'm speculating on what type of injury I actually have while trying to cope with not being able to sleep comfortably, pillows all around me, a 45 degree angle to the bed and a weighted stuffed leopard holding my shoulder in place. I wake up at least twice every night in severe pain. The incident occurred about 4 plus weeks ago while I was sitting and playing tug of war with my 90 pound dog and her rope. She jumped to the side and hyperextended my left arm and shoulder against the door frame of the bathroom. The severe pain at the Deltoid was excruciating. I thought at first it was just a pulled muscle and tried all the self help at home stuff, but it didn't get better. I can't reach out or down for things or turn my arm laterally, or reach over my head. I also have pain near the distal end of my clavicle. I'm sending pictures, but am most interested in knowing if other people who have had my symptoms ended up with a diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tear or something else. Any answers, suggestions or advice appreciated.
Thank you.