MRI Arthogram results/Supraspinatus Tendinopathy ?

[kinney1]

I just had an MRI Arthrogram where they inject the dye into my shoulder. The results were mostly good, and I won't be able to see the ortho for about a week ( he is away)... The only negative really listed on the report is "supraspinatus tendinopathy is noted without evidence of full thickness rotator cuff tear" Everything else is bascily listed as "intact" or "unremarkable", including the labrum....I have had chronic shoulder problems for about 7 years., but I would love to avoid surgery unless I really need it. Any opinions on this are appreciated because it helps to educate me before I go see the doctor.

If anyone is familiar with this diagnosis are there specific exercises recommended for this?

Cortisone shots/ or other modalities?

Thanks!

[John Izzo]

I had a similar diagnosis years ago. Although I didn't live with my shoulder pain for 7 years--more like 7 months. I opted for surgical intervention so that I can resume my weight-lifting career. I had some "fraying" of the supraspinatus, as well as a Type 3 hooked acromium. My surgery consisted of "shaving" down the hook and cleaning up the subarcomial space.

I recommend you see what your ortho says. An intense physical therapy plan may be in place including iontophresis, muscle stim, and RTC/ scap work. I was never a fan of cortisol shots (although I received one for post-op inflammation). I also had a injection with Gadellilion dye so I know what it feels like to get a shot with a syringe the size of a drill bit.

Your ortho should be able to advise you on the bony structure of the acromium and what you have going on in there. The main thing is to get the inflammation down so that you can resume a supervised rehab program.

[Jean-Paul]

I've had the same surgery on both shoulders. I also had a hunk of my clavicle hacked off.

[UConnJulie]

What that basically means is that there is some evidence of trauma or wear and tear on one of the rotator cuff tendons ... but like John says, if the problem is a result of a type III acromion, really only surgery will keep you from continually irritating it and eventually wearing through it. The best thing to do right now is to rest it, keep it pain-free, and let the inflammation settle down. If you feel you must do something, then do pendulum exercises.

JP, bummer! That distal clavicle resection is a b!t*h! You must have had some massive AC joint pain, eh? No wonder your shoulders are a mess ...

[kinney1]

The acromium was described as "unremarkable", which I take to be normal looking. Beyond rest, do you know what are specific exercises to strengthen or stretch the supraspinatus? Thanks.

[UConnJulie]

Honestly, if you are due to see the doctor next week, you really should just wait and see him ... and let him do what he is being paid for ... make recommendations about your shoulder which he has evaluated in person and has looked at the imaging.

[John Izzo]

Kinney:
I'm going to answer your PM in this post.

I echo the comments of UconnJulie. You are under a doctor's care now. You need to follow the recommendations put in place by the doctor and your PT. Once you visit (just stepping into a doctor's office--let alone getting an MRI) you are UNDER their care. Be patient...you have been dealing with this for 7 years, starting exercises without supervision won't hasten the recovery and may be detrimental if the proper progression isn't put in place. hang in there. Good luck!

[kinney1]

You guys are probably right, i'm just being impatient. Thanks!