Finally have some answers on shoulder. Had theMRI Wednesday and saw the doctor today. Here's the MRI Summary (Impression):
1.Supraspinatus tendinopathy with associated partial articular surface tear of the anterior supraspinatus tendon near the greater tuberosity insertion measuring 7 mm in transverse dimension and involving less than 50% of the tendon diameter. No full-thickness tear of the rotator cuff. Associated interstitial signal alteration within the supraspinatus muscle near its myotendinous junction suggests supraspinatus strain. Mild infraspinatus tendinopathy. Small fluid within the subacromial subdeltoid bursa compatible with mild bursitis...
2. Acromioclavicular osteoarthrosis including capsular hypertrophy which effaces the subacromial subdeltoid bureal fat and results in mild mass effect on the supraspinatus muscle near its myotendinous junction perhaps related to extreme impingement.
3. Mild intrasubstance degeneration of the superior labrum but no identifiable labral tear.
Phew!! I think the bottom line is that it's a
partial tear (good news) (#1) The doctor does not recommend surgery to repair the tear. The doctor recommended an arthroscopic scraping in the AC joint and has referred me to another doctor for a second opinion and surgery if that is the option we choose. The fact that the cortisone shot relieved me of pain validates this diagnosis.....(#2) current doctor is moving on to handle fractures and replacements and will no longer be doing these surgical procedures.
I received another cortisone injection today and didn't make appointment with the new doc until April just in case this shot lasts forever -:) <---that is wish of course!
I have worked out this week, I just haven't had a minute to post. I think I got the #1 and #2 above right....not sure about #3 - but I think it's safe to say that while some of problem is due to the tennis injury years ago or carrying briefcase/laptop/purse over the years, some of it may be due (aggravated anyway) to lifting weights (#2 is actually called "Weight Lifter's Shoulder"), the rest is probably just a normal aging process....
doctor recommends surgery as a last resort - I feel the same...I'll just wait and see at this point.
Have a great day! I miss you guys!
P.S. Does anyone actually understand what I wrote?
