MSI Press Blog

So, just when I think my rotator cuff overuse has worn off and I can go back to using it for strenuous activities, I immediately strain it again. Finally, I figured out how! Months ago, I had installed a pull up bar across the bedroom door so that I could try to pull myself up (nope, I cannot do that yet -- you would think after 18 months, it would be easy, but it is still out of reach). Clearly, I need to build stronger should muscles and lose some more weight so I have less to pull. Nonetheless, I try. Finally, after the last complaint from rotator cuff, I put two and two together: it was the frequent trying to lift more than I can that has been straining the rottor cuff. That makes sense since I need 60 pounds of assist on the machine at the gym. That means, I have been asking my rotator cuff to take on those 60 pounds that my shoulder msucles cannot list. Light dawns! So, I am increasing my pushups, my work on the machine with safe assists, the carious shoulder machines -

So, it is not a pretty picture, and also, it was bound to happen, I guess. A rotator cuff injury -- from weed-wahcking, not from fitness training. My fitness trainer is very careful to make sure I don't overstress my rotator cuffs, knowing that a torn rotator cuff could end all my ninja hopes and plans. But that weed-whacking... So, what have I learned? Still learning, actually. 1. I cannot force the use of my arm and expet it to get better. No powering through, So, pull-ups are out for a while. I wonder if the strength I have built up (not very impressive yet, honestly speaking) will return. Well, I will the answer to that question in time -- and will share. 2. I should not "grin and bear it" because analgesics not only help with pain, they also help with inflammation, which is very important for healing. 3. I do NOT want surgery; that is the scariest part because it may really put me out of commission. So, I need to help the rotator cuff heal naturally. 4