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April, 2025

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Shoulder Problems

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Hellalit
Posts: 137 - Karma: 546
I'm 16 years old and prone to chronic dislocation (FUCK). I had shoulder surgery on my right shoulder last year for a torn labrum and a pothole (dent) in my shoulder. I had at least eight dislocations on this shoulder before surgery from park skiing and non-park skiing-related injuries. Thankfully, I haven't dislocated My right shoulder since my laparoscopic surgery. Recently, I banged my left shoulder right off the rip-off of a beam, dislocating and tearing my labrum. This happened again due to aggressive resort riding in Utah.

Due to these dislocations and from the MRI, I needed to have another laparoscopic surgery on the left shoulder for the torn labrum and pothole in the shoulder.

my head is seriously in the gutter rn. I am currently in recovery and am having a brainfuck over the thought of re-injury on either shoulder when I return to skiing. I'm taking the PT very seriously and will continue to do it even for both shoulders.


I'm keeping my head up and hoping that my left shoulder will follow in my right shoulder's footsteps of having not dislocated/sublux after surgery and PT.

Praying that I won't encounter more dislocations from impact, its so fucking painful and maybe I just have to accept that it may happen again as falling is inevitable from happening.

I'm incredibly thankful that I haven't encountered worse injuries, but I have paid a severe emotional toll on myself. Hoping that anyone suffering from the same fucked up circumstance has any advice to offer. Any is appreciated.

Best,

A Fellow shoulder injurerer

P.S any advice on shoulder braces would be extremely appreciated as well!

**This thread was edited on Apr 29th 2024 at 1:40:59am

**This thread was edited on Apr 29th 2024 at 1:43:52am
Apr 29 2024 1:39AM
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swaggrandpa
Posts: 161 - Karma: 1,847
Fuck man that’s no fun, I’ve done my left one a couple times and had the same surgery last year so i know the mental strain it puts on you. I can’t imagine popping it out 8 times, by far the most pain I’ve ever felt. For me just keeping up with physio and seeing and feeling the progression is what helped me get out of how down I was feeling. I kayak so having bunk shoulders isn’t ideal, and what’s helped me a lot with the mental game is just having to realize I may never be able to be at the level I was at before operation which fucking blows, but it does mean you’ll be able to keep doing this shit for a long time. Short term pain for long term gain. Hang in there though, and if ya ever want to chat, hit me up! Also I’ve never used a shoulder brace so couldn't tell ya what works, but might have to look into investing in one for the future.
Apr 29 2024 2:15AM
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Static
Posts: 8588 - Karma: 4,099
Go to Mexico and get stem cell injections.
Apr 29 2024 8:30AM
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twatt_chaurus
Posts: 470 - Karma: 1,682
Might catch some flak for trying to suggest this here, but u need to learn how to play with the cards you were dealt. Clearly u aren't built for aggressive riding. Do a favour to your future self, and take this shit seriously. Time to start skiing like u want to be able to move your arms normally when u are 30. The shoulder is the most complex joint in the body and once you really fuck it up options are very limited.

btw speaking from the collective experience of my friend group who are starting to reap the rewards of ignoring stuff like this

**This post was edited on Apr 29th 2024 at 10:36:12am
Apr 29 2024 10:34AM
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Hellalit
Posts: 137 - Karma: 546
twatt_chaurusMight catch some flak for trying to suggest this here, but u need to learn how to play with the cards you were dealt. Clearly u aren't built for aggressive riding. Do a favour to your future self, and take this shit seriously. Time to start skiing like u want to be able to move your arms normally when u are 30. The shoulder is the most complex joint in the body and once you really fuck it up options are very limited.

btw speaking from the collective experience of my friend group who are starting to reap the rewards of ignoring stuff like this

**This post was edited on Apr 29th 2024 at 10:36:12am


I understand your points. Although, I'm hoping that no dislocation/sublux after surgery on my right shoulder in 2 seasons is a good omen for my left shoulder recovery.
Apr 29 2024 11:04AM
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Hellalit
Posts: 137 - Karma: 546
swaggrandpaFuck man that’s no fun, I’ve done my left one a couple times and had the same surgery last year so i know the mental strain it puts on you. I can’t imagine popping it out 8 times, by far the most pain I’ve ever felt. For me just keeping up with physio and seeing and feeling the progression is what helped me get out of how down I was feeling. I kayak so having bunk shoulders isn’t ideal, and what’s helped me a lot with the mental game is just having to realize I may never be able to be at the level I was at before operation which fucking blows, but it does mean you’ll be able to keep doing this shit for a long time. Short term pain for long term gain. Hang in there though, and if ya ever want to chat, hit me up! Also I’ve never used a shoulder brace so couldn't tell ya what works, but might have to look into investing in one for the future.


Thank you for sharing g!
Apr 29 2024 11:05AM
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percs
Posts: 2280 - Karma: 5,816
Hey brother I’m in the same boat I dislocated my shoulder skiing for the first time when I was 16. It was a quick in and out but then I started rock climbing and one day it came out and after that it got easier and easier until I had dislocated it probably 30 times. Then j got the labrum repair surgery and I fell skateboarding 2 months later and ruined the surgery. My dad was pissed and didn’t support me going to get another surgery. So pretty much I’ve lived with my right shoulder being absolutely fucked for like 6 years now it’s came out probably 250 times.


so pretty much I just live with it and you get happier over time but I plan on going to the doctor to get reconstructive surgery eventually but I’m doubtful of ever having a working shoulder again. It’s just how it is
Apr 29 2024 11:15AM
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Flacker
Posts: 604 - Karma: 1,514
HellalitI understand your points. Although, I'm hoping that no dislocation/sublux after surgery on my right shoulder in 2 seasons is a good omen for my left shoulder recovery.


Can confirm what homie was saying, dislocated my left shoulder for the first time when I was 18 skateboarding, I have since popped it out upwards of 9 times (last time I had my arm around my fiancé and she moved to fast and popped it right out). The injury has affected my entire body, my collarbone has moved causing my right shoulder to be weaker now, and about once a week I experience the most excruciating back pain. I have surgery scheduled for later this year (Having a real job with health care is the shit). But to finish my rant I wish I had taken better care of myself and slowed down, all I can say is get into Yoga and Meditation, really really helped me when I was really going through it.
Apr 29 2024 2:29PM
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swaggrandpa
Posts: 161 - Karma: 1,847
FlackerCan confirm what homie was saying, dislocated my left shoulder for the first time when I was 18 skateboarding, I have since popped it out upwards of 9 times (last time I had my arm around my fiancé and she moved to fast and popped it right out). The injury has affected my entire body, my collarbone has moved causing my right shoulder to be weaker now, and about once a week I experience the most excruciating back pain. I have surgery scheduled for later this year (Having a real job with health care is the shit). But to finish my rant I wish I had taken better care of myself and slowed down, all I can say is get into Yoga and Meditation, really really helped me when I was really going through it.


Fuck yes for yoga and meditation. especially yoga, like I’ve never been a fan of it, but man does it do you body so many favours.
Apr 29 2024 2:46PM
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weatcoast
Posts: 328 - Karma: -3,189
Sounds like a skill issue. Have you tried simply not falling?
Apr 29 2024 2:53PM
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swaggrandpa
Posts: 161 - Karma: 1,847
SkiEnthusiast420Sounds like a skill issue. Have you tried simply not falling?


Have you ever tried holding your tongue?
Apr 29 2024 5:18PM
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GorillaMarketGMK
Posts: 194 - Karma: 918
As someone who also has shoulder issues what I can say is look into getting a shoulder brace for when you ski, don’t inebriate yourself while riding and keep up on the pt. The physical therapy will be something that will help a lot, have muscles built up there will help keep it in place since ligaments once stretched out don’t really heal. All in all though it’s probably something you’re gonna want to keep an eye on and will have to watch out for probably for the majority of your time skiing. Also learn how to properly relocate your shoulder, nothing sucks like it coming out and being put in wrong and pinching a nerve.
Apr 29 2024 5:21PM
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Hellalit
Posts: 137 - Karma: 546
GorillaMarketGMKAs someone who also has shoulder issues what I can say is look into getting a shoulder brace for when you ski, don’t inebriate yourself while riding and keep up on the pt. The physical therapy will be something that will help a lot, have muscles built up there will help keep it in place since ligaments once stretched out don’t really heal. All in all though it’s probably something you’re gonna want to keep an eye on and will have to watch out for probably for the majority of your time skiing. Also learn how to properly relocate your shoulder, nothing sucks like it coming out and being put in wrong and pinching a nerve.


I see. Whats interesting is that my right shoulder was mainly only sublux many times. However on my left, it happened less frequently and were full on dislocations (had to get tobogan down to clinic at snowbird etc). Should I continue to do PT on both shoulders even after my recovery consistently for probably the rest of my life?
Apr 29 2024 6:23PM
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Hellalit
Posts: 137 - Karma: 546
percsHey brother I’m in the same boat I dislocated my shoulder skiing for the first time when I was 16. It was a quick in and out but then I started rock climbing and one day it came out and after that it got easier and easier until I had dislocated it probably 30 times. Then j got the labrum repair surgery and I fell skateboarding 2 months later and ruined the surgery. My dad was pissed and didn’t support me going to get another surgery. So pretty much I’ve lived with my right shoulder being absolutely fucked for like 6 years now it’s came out probably 250 times.


so pretty much I just live with it and you get happier over time but I plan on going to the doctor to get reconstructive surgery eventually but I’m doubtful of ever having a working shoulder again. It’s just how it is


Wow! so sorry to hear that my g, feel better
Apr 29 2024 6:23PM
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Wonderwop
Posts: 4 - Karma: 14
percsHey brother I’m in the same boat I dislocated my shoulder skiing for the first time when I was 16. It was a quick in and out but then I started rock climbing and one day it came out and after that it got easier and easier until I had dislocated it probably 30 times. Then j got the labrum repair surgery and I fell skateboarding 2 months later and ruined the surgery. My dad was pissed and didn’t support me going to get another surgery. So pretty much I’ve lived with my right shoulder being absolutely fucked for like 6 years now it’s came out probably 250 times.


so pretty much I just live with it and you get happier over time but I plan on going to the doctor to get reconstructive surgery eventually but I’m doubtful of ever having a working shoulder again. It’s just how it is


Ah that sucks man. I had a latarjet op done on mine a few years back. Used to pop out on the weekly since I reinjured it after the first arthroscopy like 10 years ago but it's been solid as since getting the 2nd surgery minus a bit of rom. Shoulder aches and back/neck pain are still there but thats getting better with swimming and PT
Apr 29 2024 7:32PM
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armchair_skier
Posts: 2645 - Karma: 33,998
How much do u weigh and how tall r u?

U need to get some mass on ur shoulders probab
Apr 29 2024 8:27PM
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weatcoast
Posts: 328 - Karma: -3,189
That’s not what your mom said last night
swaggrandpaHave you ever tried holding your tongue?
Apr 29 2024 8:27PM
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Hellalit
Posts: 137 - Karma: 546
armchair_skierHow much do u weigh and how tall r u?

U need to get some mass on ur shoulders probab


I am 5'10/5'11 and 140 lbs. Overall pretty small, shoulders get banged pretty easily, maybe besides extra elsastciity in shoulders, lack of muscle to protect shoulders?
Apr 29 2024 9:31PM
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GorillaMarketGMK
Posts: 194 - Karma: 918
HellalitI see. Whats interesting is that my right shoulder was mainly only sublux many times. However on my left, it happened less frequently and were full on dislocations (had to get tobogan down to clinic at snowbird etc). Should I continue to do PT on both shoulders even after my recovery consistently for probably the rest of my life?


Ya more than likely, I’m not gonna lie I’m pretty bad about doing it myself and for the most part don’t have much of an issue. But I also don’t really go that hard any more and I still have dislocations once in a while. But “my shits all fucked up son” in a redneck accent.
Apr 29 2024 11:02PM
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officechair
Posts: 350 - Karma: 2,853
You'll need to strength train after the initial PT. Actually strength train. Gymnastic rings will work wonders if you stick with it. Start with the easier exercises like ring push ups and ring dips multiple times a week, with modifications if needed to start out. Then you can progress further to flies, weighted ring dips, RTO dips, etc. I subluxed a shoulder 9 years ago and have torn both labrums and/or other stuff. Never had problems again once I got proficient on rings.

And probably for the rest of your life. Some injuries can only be worked around and managed as best as possible.

**This post was edited on Apr 29th 2024 at 11:32:28pm
Apr 29 2024 11:29PM
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_brrett
Posts: 1740 - Karma: 28,979
I had a chronic dislocating shoulder myself and I got the laterjet surgery (I stg this is the best one lol). Fixed er right up, if anything its stronger than my good shoulder now hahah. Getting strong is the best way to prevent further injury. I started working out my shoulders once I was fully healed and everything feels so much better. The more muscle you have there the harder it is for it to come out again. Knowing how to slam is super important too. I never reach out my arms to brace anymore, Id rather take it to the dome than fuck my shoulders up at this point hahaha. ~40 dislocations before surgery and I don’t plan on any more
Apr 30 2024 10:20AM
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Dlonetti
Posts: 1998 - Karma: 21,431
having no experience with shoulders and only having done acl rehab, I still feel like you should be able to get to 100% and ski just how you want to. THE GYM IS YOUR BEST FRIEND. Regardless of if youre rehabbing, being a habitual gym goer since I was 18 or so has made such an improvement on my body/skiing/daily life. my philosophy with any injury is if you do the rehab properly and strengthen the necessary muscles, theres no reason you cant get back to where you were/where you want to be. Im three years removed from acl surgery, but still doing PT stuff basically every day in the gym, because its always a process. My knee feels great, but I know both of them can be stronger. Shoulders seem like they can be a bit more finnicky, but just crank out that PT, dont push it before you should, and live in the gym. Youve got a lifetime of skiing ahead of you, just gotta make sure your body is setup for it.
Apr 30 2024 11:28AM
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BowfinBaron
Posts: 9 - Karma: 36
Hey man sorry it sucks. I had laterjet done on my left shoulder this summer after 2 years of a dozen or so dislocations and it wasn’t supper fun. But now 10 months later and after 4/5 months of PT almost every day it feels supper soild and I’m back skiing like before. I would really look into getting Laterjet done instead of just the labrum repair. My brother got the anthroposopic done and his poped out again. If you have ANY bone damage to ur shoulder the chance of it popping out again is way higher . Laterjet is a much bigger scar but it screws bone in front of your shoulder so it can’t pop out, the rate of re dislocation is much lower. But do your own research! I found all this stuff by looking up medical studies online. Take the time to get a doctor the specialty is shoulders and get checked for bone damage. I know it sucks right now but in less than a year you could be back to skiing how you wanta be, good luck
May 1 2024 12:55AM
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fabbe
Posts: 931 - Karma: -36
U need to drink more milk
May 1 2024 5:18AM
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Lip_on
Posts: 494 - Karma: -1,912
Asking for medical advice on a ski site is crazy
May 1 2024 1:56PM
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