Nancy Papa

In September of 2014, I underwent surgery at my local hospital for a torn rotator cuff & a snapped bicep tendon. My "1-2 hour surgery" ended up taking 3 and 1/2 hours, as the tear was "massive". I was told everything went well & started PT. At my one & two month checkups, I discussed my being frustrated because my PT wasn't progressing. I was told to be patient & continue. At my 3 month visit, I was still frustrated with my progress. My surgeon decided since he had to put 7 anchors in for the repair, along with scar tissue, I should have another surgery to remove a few anchors & release the scar tissue. I was told I would see a significant improvement with my range of motion. So, in December of 2014, 3 months from the original surgery I had another operation. Back to PT & still going nowhere, at my 5th month check I was told that I had developed "post-rotator cuff arthropathy" & that I needed a total reverse shoulder replacement! Needless to say I was shocked & depressed. I did some research & when I found the Doctors Dines at HSS, I made an appointment. It took awhile to get all of my medical records, but once I had everything, I saw Dr. Joshua Dines in July 2015. I was especially excited to learn that his dad, Dr. David Dines, had been one of the pioneers of shoulder replacement. I met with his PA, Brynn McGrath & was going over my history & in tears, when Dr. J. Dines walked in. He said "you don't have to live like this, we can fix you". I scheduled my surgery for January 2016, as our sons' wedding was December 19th. So, on 1/20/16, I underwent a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty at HSS. That was a Wednesday. I stayed there 2 nights & was discharged as the epic storm, Jonas, was about to begin. I started PT after my visit & its ongoing, but I have more range of motion & no pain! I am able to raise my arm above my head & do pretty much everything. Today, I was able to blow dry & style MY ENTIRE HEAD OF HAIR. Prior to this, I couldn't reach the back part. I'm no athlete by any means, but I'm thrilled to be "back in the game". I will be forever grateful to Dr. D. & everyone at HSS! Thanks so much!!!