My injury occurred in February 2021.  I weight train 3 days a week with a trainer and I was doing dumbbell chest presses.

My sequence was: 35 pounds – 40 pounds – 45 pounds, all of which I had done several times before. But while doing the 40 pound reps there was an unpleasant ‘popping’ sound and I dangerously lost control of the weights.

Diagnosis

I contacted a physiotherapist who arranged for an x-ray and ultrasound that afternoon (always have your injuries seen to as quickly as possible!). At my follow up appointment later that week, we reviewed the results and was advised I had an 11 millimetre tear in my rotator cuff. No wonder I had so much pain and difficulty moving my arm!

Thankfully, the physiotherapist recommended Group 23 Sports Medicine and made the appointment for me with Dr. Auld (a referral from a physiotherapist, chiropractor or physician is required to see any sport medicine physician). After examining my shoulder Dr. Auld made some recommendations and took the time to carefully review the possible benefits and overall process of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, which was his principal treatment suggestion.

Treatment

My first injection was in August, and I saw Dr. Manning who again explained the process for the injection and the possible benefits, which I really appreciated. The injection process itself was quite interesting to watch on the screen (and is a nice distraction if you’re a bit uncomfortable with needles!).

My second injection was scheduled for September and by the night of the second injection my pain level had dropped significantly and the arthritis in my shoulder stopped hurting!  I have had significant progress in movement and little or no pain since the second injection.

Recovery

My overall experience with the doctors and staff of Group 23 Sports Medicine was fantastic. From beginning to end, they carefully guided me through the various options, and I really appreciated the follow-up phone calls after the injections to ensure there were no problems. My final review with Dr. Auld in October was excellent. I was able to happily tell him the PRP injections worked, and I was very pleased with the results.  Without the injections, I would not be where I am now, and I never expected to make a full recovery due to the severity of the tear. However, I’m now confident I will soon be back to my original strength, range of motion and most importantly, pain free!

Here at Group23 Sports Medicine, we are so excited by David’s, and many others, successful Patient Health Journeys. If you have a recent or lingering injury, pain or other physical aliment – we urge you to seek treatment! We’d love to help you to #riseabove on your path back to full health.