Hi Skiffrace,

I haven't read all the other responses, so if I repeat something that's been said already, I apologize.

Do you have a copy of the MRI results from the first injury? Which tendon was damaged the first time? Was it the supraspinatus tendon? That's the most commonly injured tendon in the shoulder, it's one of four tendons that make up the infamous rotator cuff. Was it a complete tear or a smaller partial tear?

If you had a complete tear 5 yrs. ago and did not have it repaired, it probably won't be repairable now. If it was a partial tear which healed, to some extent, on its own, you have much better chances of repairing it now. From what you said in your post, I'm guessing it was a partial tear.

It sounds like you are a pretty active person, is that right? If you're an active person and you plan to remain active, I wouldn't advise you to skip surgery again. If you have a tear that can be repaired, repair it. The shoulder joint is a very shallow ball and socket. Shoulder stability is mainly provided by the musculature and ligaments around the shoulder. If that stability is compromised by a torn tendon or ligament, the joint often slides around more than normal during movement. With time, that increased movement can cause degenerative problems with the cartilage that lines the joint. In other words, early arthritis.

I won't blow smoke, shoulder surgery isn't fun. It's not exactly a painless recovery, but it's usually the best way to go.

I could tell you to take up a safer sport than cycling, but it wouldn't make much sense coming from me...I fly hang gliders.

Keep us posted on the MRI results and the doctor's recommendations.

Pedro Almeida