Is surgery a must for my mother's severe shoulder pain?

Question

Hi doctor,

My hardworking mother, aged 62 years has a history of diabetes for the past 10 years and occasional shoulder pain for the past eight years. A month ago she lifted my son's heavy school bag and got severe shoulder pain, restricting it's movements. We got the MRI done last week. I have attached the reports. Can this problem be solved by giving adequate rest to the hand and physiotherapy or surgery is a must? If yes, what is the success rate of surgery in this case?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on the MRI report (attachment removed to protect patient identity), it is a full thickness tear of supraspinatus with retraction. The ideal treatment is arthroscopic repair for this age group of patients followed by strict physiotherapy. It is a keyhole surgery. Most of these surgeries will have good success rates. Even though she has diabetes, there is no issue with the surgery.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

She has to go through the physiotherapy protocol also. Her condition cannot be cured completely only with physiotherapy.

Thank you.