Rotator Cuff Repair

[Bow Bender]

Today I'm nursing yesterdays left shoulder arthroscopic surgery for repair of a torn rotator cuff.   I will be wearing an arm sling and can't use the muscles above the elbow to lift the arm for 6 weeks to prevent damaging the repair.  Should start physical therapy in about a month. I told the doc/surgeon that I need to be able to shoot a hunting weight bow by Sept and he said that he also shoots a bow and understands what therapy would be necessary to work up to that poundage. I was able to pull 60lb without pain, the problem was lifting the bow arm to the draw position. Once the arm was up there was no problem. I told the doc that I didn't remember any specific event that could have caused the injury and he said that he often hears that from patients. He explained that everyday use of the shoulders causes the rotator cuff connective tendons to wear and thin to the point that they separate from the attachment. There is no self healing once this occurs, no magic pills, surgery to re-attach the tendons is required.  Actually my right shoulder also needs the same surgery.   I had a MRI on both shoulders and the doc said that the left one was in the worst condition and needed to be done first.   If it was put off any longer it could possibly get to the not-repairable stage and I sure didn't want that to happen. Doc said we will work on the right shoulder next winter after hunting seasons are over.  After the surgery doc told me that once he got into doing the repair it was a lot worse than what he could see on the MRI images and was on the verge of not-repairable. Even though I am setting out spring bear and fishing season I'm glad that it is done before it got the completely not-repairable stage and I should be in good shape by fall. 
 I'm not posting this to receive pity from anyone but rather to inform others about what could eventually get to the stage of preventing you from being able to ever shoot a bow again.  If you experience any shoulder pain I recommend getting it checked out by an orthopedic specialist.   

[McDave]

Good advice!

[Wheels2]

I am two weeks out from mine.  I had cuff repared but also two bone spurs removed, and tendon reattachment.
I just started PT and like you I was told no archery for 3-4 months.
It is going to be a boring summer.

[GCook]

Yep y'all are in for a not so fun time.  But as said, do the therapy, listen to the doc and therapist and you'll be back in it before you know it.
God bless your healing and recovery.

[Roy from Pa]

My rotator cuff was completely torn off.

Wasn't allowed to lift my arm up for 6 weeks after surgery.

Was back shooting in 3 months.

The physical therapy really helps and most of all do not push it.

[Sam McMichael]

I was lucky in that my rotator cuff was not torn, which made my surgery easier. I was back shooting a light bow really quick and had no trouble moving back to my hunting weight. You are fortunate to have a doc who understands bowhunters. That should help in planning your rehab. Just be sure to follow both the doctor's and the therapist's instructions. If you do the work, you will be fine. Just don't try to get back in the groove until the shoulder is ready. Good luck. Keep us informed about your progress.

[Wheels2]

Already trying to trade stuff for a set of 30-35# ILF limbs to rehab.  I am hoping that is low enough to start.
I had to wait until my wife's issues were addressed and no doubt this added to my problem.  Now all of my house projects are on hold as well.

[achigan]

Two surgeries on the right cuff, one on the left. I behaved myself with therapy and got back to 90-95% strength/motion. G’luck!

[goobersan]

Age, use, and bone spurs are what my doc said creates the issues. Don't push PT but don't slack either. You won't get better not doing exercises at home. Best of luck to ya. Lots of support here if ya need it