Saw my doctor today about the results of an ultrasound. I have tears in my bicep and my shoulder. Looked up on the Internet. It seems like slaptear. I probably did both tears 5 years ago at tennis. Made it much worse by being in a Karate tournament last month.

The doctor was surprised at how much movement I had despite the tears. For that reason, and as I'm 65, he recommended against surgery. I might look into a 2nd opinion about that. I will be seeing a sports physio next week. Any comments, please?

My doctor agreed that badminton might be easier on the arm than tennis. Comments, please?

I also thought about going back to Aikido. He thought it was too risky for the shoulder. Comments, please?

Barry

Take a look into Active Release Technique. Physical therapists and chiropractors who are certified can perform this very effective soft tissue technique. Im a sports chiropractor and I work on lots of shoulders. In my opinion, surgery is only an option if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. In your case, I would try some form of soft tissue mobilization and most immportantly some rotator cuff and scapular stabalization exercises.

As a board-certified chiropractic orthopedist for the last 20 yrs, another deep-tissue release technic that I have found extremly beneficial and have been certified in for the last 7 years or so is Neuromuscular Reeducation. You can find a certified practitioner at http://www.nmrseminars.com/

Both ART and NMR are sister technics and originated from an earlier deep-tissue release system, each with a slightly different spin but both are very good. Don't get me wrong though, neither one are going to "repair" torn tissue. If you need surgry, then you need surgery. Their utility lies in releasing scar tissue and adhesions for whatever reason (disuse, post-surgical scarring, etc.)with the main goal of restoring function. Most times, this will also provide a reduction in pain as well. Not for the weak at heart though...

Brian

I've printed out both responses. I'm seeing a sports physio next Wednesday. I'll show them to him.
Thanks
Barry