How One Patient Avoided Unnecessary Shoulder Surgery: The Power of Comprehensive Movement Assessment

A Real Patient Story That Highlights Why Thorough Evaluation Matters More Than Quick Fixes

The Problem: When Standard Diagnosis Doesn't Match Patient Experience

Last month, a patient walked into Total Body Performance with a frustrating story that we hear all too often. He'd been experiencing persistent shoulder and neck pain that impacted his training and daily life. Like many active individuals, he sought help from multiple healthcare providers, underwent expensive MRI imaging, and received a diagnosis that seemed definitive: a labrum tear requiring surgical intervention.

But something didn't add up. The symptoms he was experiencing didn't align with what a typical labrum tear would cause. Despite having "evidence" on imaging, his lived experience told a different story.

This disconnect between imaging findings and actual symptoms is more common than you might think – and it's costing patients thousands of dollars in unnecessary procedures.

Why MRI Findings Don't Always Tell the Whole Story

Here's what many patients don't realize: abnormal findings on MRI scans are incredibly common in people without any symptoms whatsoever. Research shows that up to 40% of people over 40 have labrum tears visible on imaging, yet experience no pain or functional limitations.

The Danger of "Incidentalomas"

Medical professionals use the term "incidentaloma" to describe findings on imaging that may be completely unrelated to a patient's actual problem. When healthcare providers focus solely on what they see on an MRI without conducting thorough clinical assessments, patients often receive:

• Unnecessary surgical recommendations

• Expensive procedures that don't address root causes

• Extended recovery times for problems they never actually had

• Increased risk of complications from avoidable surgeries

  
  

The Total Body Performance Difference: Comprehensive Movement Assessment

When this patient came to our clinic, we took a completely different approach. Instead of immediately accepting the previous diagnosis, we:

1. Listened to His Complete Story

We spent time understanding not just his symptoms, but when they occurred, what movements triggered them, and how they impacted his daily activities and training.

2. Performed Detailed Movement Assessments

Rather than relying solely on static imaging, we evaluated how his body actually moved and functioned. This revealed patterns that pointed toward nerve involvement rather than structural damage to the labrum.

3. Educated Him About His Condition

We explained our findings in detail, helping him understand why his symptoms were occurring and how we could address them without surgical intervention.

4. Developed a Targeted Treatment Plan

Based on our assessment, we created a specific approach to address the nerve-related issues causing his pain, along with modifications to his training routine.

The Results: Pain Relief Without Surgery

The outcome speaks for itself: this patient avoided an unnecessary surgery, saved thousands of dollars, and achieved better results than he likely would have with the recommended procedure. More importantly, he gained:

• Understanding of his condition and how to prevent future episodes

• Modified training techniques that allow him to continue pursuing his fitness goals

• Confidence in his body's ability to heal and perform

• Tools to recognize and address similar issues in the future

  
  

When Conservative Treatment Should Be Your First Choice

If you're dealing with shoulder pain, neck pain, or other musculoskeletal issues, consider conservative treatment first when you experience:

• Pain that doesn't match typical patterns for the diagnosed condition

• Symptoms that vary significantly based on position or activity

• Multiple provider opinions that don't align with your experience

• Imaging findings that seem disproportionate to your symptoms

  
  

Red Flags That Warrant Immediate Medical Attention

While conservative treatment is often effective, seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Sudden, severe pain following trauma

• Numbness or weakness in your arms or hands

• Pain that worsens progressively despite rest

• Signs of infection (fever, warmth, redness)

  
  

The Importance of Finding the Right Healthcare Provider

Not all healthcare providers approach musculoskeletal conditions the same way. When seeking treatment, look for professionals who:

Take Time to Listen

Your provider should be interested in your complete story, not just your imaging results.

Perform Comprehensive Assessments

Movement assessments, functional tests, and detailed physical examinations often reveal more than static imaging.

Explain Their Findings

You deserve to understand what's happening with your body and why specific treatments are recommended.

Consider Conservative Options First

Surgery should typically be a last resort, not the first recommendation for most musculoskeletal conditions.

Focus on Education and Prevention

The best providers teach you how to prevent future problems and take an active role in your recovery.

Performance Optimization: Beyond Just Pain Relief

At Total Body Performance, we don't just treat pain – we help active individuals optimize their performance while preventing future injuries. This approach includes:

• Movement pattern analysis to identify and correct dysfunction before it causes problems

• Sport-specific training modifications that enhance performance while reducing injury risk

• Education about proper recovery and training progression

• Long-term strategies for maintaining optimal physical function

  
  

Take Control of Your Health: Questions to Ask Your Provider

Before agreeing to any surgical procedure, consider asking:

1. "Do my symptoms match what you'd expect from this diagnosis?"

2. "What would happen if we tried conservative treatment first?"

3. "Can you explain why surgery is necessary in my specific case?"

4. "What are the risks and potential complications of this procedure?"

5. "How will this surgery address my specific symptoms?"

   
   

The Bottom Line: Your Body Deserves Better

Every patient deserves healthcare that listens, investigates thoroughly, and explores conservative options before recommending invasive procedures. The success story shared above isn't unique – it's what happens when healthcare providers take the time to truly understand their patients' conditions.

If you're dealing with persistent pain that hasn't responded to treatment, or if you've been told you need surgery but something doesn't feel right about that recommendation, it may be time for a second opinion.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At Total Body Performance, Dr. Books and our team are committed to providing the comprehensive assessment and personalized care that every patient deserves. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and giving them the tools they need to take control of their health and performance.

Don't let unnecessary procedures derail your health and fitness goals. Sometimes the best treatment is the one that addresses your actual problem – not just what shows up on imaging.

Contact Total Body Performance today to schedule a comprehensive assessment and discover what conservative, evidence-based care can do for you.

Ready to avoid unnecessary surgery and optimize your performance? Contact Total Body Performance today to schedule your comprehensive movement assessment with Dr. Books.