Navigating Shoulder Surgery: When the Doctor Becomes the Patient.
My partner, Dr. Freeto, told me the most common post-operative ER visits are from his younger rotator cuff repair patients. To say that I might have some PTSD from my first shoulder surgery with him in 2019 would be an understatement because of the pain I SO vividly remember. Shoulder surgery is often daunting for ANY patient, but what happens when the one wielding the scalpel finds themselves on the operating table AGAIN?
As a doctor specializing in pain and with a heavy interventional procedure load, I faced this scenario not long ago for a second time. But this time it was on my dominant arm. The experience was not just a physical trial but a profound emotional and psychological journey that reminded me of invaluable lessons about resilience and empathy.
It was a cold January morning when I woke up with a persistent ache in my right shoulder. As a doctor of pain management, I knew the signs all too well - it was time to confront the reality of undergoing a second shoulder surgery. The thought of being on the operating table for a second time was humbling and sobering. Without my right arm, how could I continue to care for my patients? I continued to work for a year in pain while participating in physical therapy before I scheduled my surgery for 2 days before Christmas.
The road to recovery was riddled with challenges. Simple tasks became arduous feats, and the limitations imposed by my injury tested my patience. Yet, amid adversity, I discovered a newfound determination to overcome obstacles. Each physical therapy session became a battleground where I fought to reclaim mobility and strength. At 4 months out, I still lack strength and range of motion. People see me without my sling and exclaim, “You’re better!” The reality is that rotator cuff surgery is a 9-12 month recovery.
However, one of the greatest obstacles I faced was not physical but mental. The fear of being unable to return to my calling—to heal and help others — loomed over me like a dark cloud. Doubt was ever present, and I was frustrated with not getting back to the things I loved—horseback riding, golf, pilates, and traveling—but I also questioned my ability to perform procedures and surgeries again. Yet, it was precisely this fear that fueled my resolve to persevere. Against the recommendations of my surgeon, I came back to procedures 6 weeks post-operative because I felt awful making my patients wait.
Throughout this journey, I realized that being a doctor extends far beyond the procedure and exam room walls. It’s about connecting with patients on a deeper level, understanding their fears and vulnerabilities, and inspiring them to find strength in adversity. My own experience with multiple injuries and surgeries has given me a unique perspective that I continue to share with my patients.
As I stand in the procedure room again, I reflect on the lessons learned from my journey. I understand my patient's fears and uncertainties because I’ve been there myself more times than I care to admit. I strive to mend their physical ailments and instill hope and courage. I like to joke that I’m like the Hair Club for Men infomercials — I’m not just the President but also a client.
While any surgery may be a frightening prospect for any patient, it’s also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a journey marked by challenges and obstacles but also an opportunity for growth and transformation. While taking my own advice was hard at times and remembering that healing takes time, I am every day trying to manage my expectations and be gentle with myself as I get back to my daily activities.
So when you see me without my sling, and you ask me if I’m all better? Sometimes, my response might be short. Because I am at work. In pain. But I am there to try and help you. And just like you? I’m a patient that’s trying to get better. I took 10 days off of work over Christmas and New Year and returned to work after surgery with an average pain level of 7-8. I don’t take lunch most days to accommodate seeing as many people as possible as quickly as possible. Please remember that and give me some grace.
Sending you all the love and light <3 Dr. Weisbein.