Surgery

[kykiller]

I'm 28 years old and have been lifting off and on for about 5 years. I have just recently started having shoulder pain when I do anything over my head. I can still bench press about 365 no pain no problem, crazy I know. I went to the doctor and he said he thought I had a torn labrium. I'm probably going to have surgery this summer. I was wondering if anyone has had shoulder surgery, and how long it would take before I would be back in the gym, and back to shootin my bow. Just got it last year and didn't feel comfortable enough with it to hunt last year.

[greenghost]

kykiller, I have never had shoulder surgery, but the following general points are relevant. (1) Everybody is different and it is hard to predict who will heal rapidly and who won't. But given that you are relatively young and in good physical health, you should heal fairly quickly. (2) There is increasingly good evidence that you should try to keep the injured area as active as possible. This increases circulation and decreases inflamation both of which help speed up recovery. (Don't overdo it, as that will obviously increase inflammation. There are still people in the medical profession who suggest that you keep the injured area immobile for long periods of time. If you get that advice, seek a second opinion before going with it. (3) Diet is important. In particular, be sure that you get enough omega-3 fatty (DHA/EFA) acids to help keep inflammation down. I reguarly take as many as 8 fish oil pills a day (~2 grams).

You might also consider getting a light weight bow during recovery.

[kykiller]

Thanks, I take 3 fish oils a day now. And I still lift weights if its a movement that doesn't hurt. Im just not looking forward to being out of lifting and shooting for a long period of time. :sbrug:

[tuffshot]

It is best to take care of the problem now while you are still young. Time is a key factor. One good thing is that you will be able to work up a physical therapy session mostly on you own. Lighter weights and more reps will be the key.

Just as gg stated , use a lighter weight bow for a while and do not push yourself too hard. Hope your surgeon is good and there is very little scar tissue to hinder recovery.

Good luck, hope all goes well