PNW shoulder surgeon

September 17, 2020 8:43 AM

My shoulder has failed conservative therapy and it's time to see a surgeon. Looking for recommendations in the PNW--Spokane, Seattle, Portland are all fair game. If it matters, I've got a SLAP tear, torn rotator cuff, and something going on with my bicep tendon.
posted by HotToddy to Health & Fitness (4 answers total)

Sneak around and check with Physical Therapy outfits, to see who they recommend. This is a tricky business but first time around I found an excellent surgeon. Second time around one came up at random, both shoulders are well rapaired and I am pain free. Be careful because they talk about the gold standard of care for a ball player vs an older women, and some won't even fool with the bicep, do not accept this, and make them fix it, if this is the case with you. PT is terrible, but something called The Moon Protocol, is great for early recovery, as long as you give the shoulder a month past surgery before getting on with PT. I had a surgery that went on for a page because of several tears, and it was rehab'd in 4.5 months. It is still less than a year out, and I am totally pain free. PT said it can take up to 18 months for recovery, but not so if you PT it, and keep busy with it.

This is supposed to be encouraging. It is painful, but not forever.
posted by Oyéah at 11:24 AM on September 17, 2020

2nding - ask your PT. PTs will never speak poorly of a doctor to your face, so don't ask what they think of a particular surgeon. Ask them who they would go to if they (or their loved ones) needed that surgery. They will know who has good outcomes.
posted by autolykos at 12:53 PM on September 17, 2020

Check your MeMail!
posted by zeusianfog at 3:57 PM on September 17, 2020

Dr. Jim Hsu, Polyclinic in Seattle. Did both of my wife's shoulders, SLAP tears w/ biceps tendon involvement. Both are super strong now - she's a climber and skier.
posted by Pantengliopoli at 4:55 PM on September 17, 2020