Howard Herman

I was referred to Dr. McCarthy by a pain management specialist at HSS since I could not raise my extended right arm parallel to the ground. I incorrectly thought my problems were a direct result of a neck injury I suffered. An MRI proved that I was wrong about the cause of my shoulder problems and it was not the result of a nerve problem in my neck. Dr. McCarthy saw me immediately as I was in a lot of pain. Her treatment was initially conservative (cortisone injection for pain relief and PT). Her decision to not rush to perform surgery was appreciated.

The injuries I had were too great to be treated without surgery. Dr. McCarthy performed four arthroscopic procedures as well as re-attaching my biceps tendon all at the same time. The recovery this time proved to be far less painful than a prior shoulder surgery on my other arm done years ago at another hospital. Home rehab continues to keep building strength and flexibility. I have regained virtually all of my range of motion.

I believe that surgery is only minor when performed on someone other than me. I am not a trusting person by my nature or training. I have had issues with anesthesia in my family (my father), which the doctor discussed and helped me deal with. I selected my anesthesiologist from candidates I vetted with Dr. McCarthy's help and that doctor proved to be wonderful.

I have always told people who worked in my law office (lawyers that I trained) that "you can't demand respect or trust from a client, you have to earn it." That is true of doctors as well. She did things "old school" and EARNED my trust and respect by doing a superb repair. She (and her office) has been supportive and responsive to my calls and needs. My assessment of the surgery has been echoed by my physical therapist and the insurance company doctor doing "independent medical exams" for my carrier. High praise, indeed.

I am back to doing some of the activities I used to do before. I continue to add to the kind, intensity and duration of these activities. I can recommend Dr. McCarthy without reservations.

Howard Herman