Michelle Caruso

Last year around late October, I began experiencing some discomfort and a limited range of motion in my left arm. I wasn't sure what it was, but I didn't think it was anything major because the pain wasn't constant. With that, I went to a local orthopedist, was diagnosed with having an inflamed bicep and was prescribed a cortisone shot to reduce the inflammation. When that made the pain more prominent and sensitive, I knew it was time to seek out a specialist. With a recommendation from a friend, I found Dr. Allen and Hospital for Special Surgery. During my first appointment, I was able to have X-rays and an MRI all done within the day; it was so convenient and the staff was very helpful. Dr. Allen was so informative and friendly that I immediately felt comfortable and knew that he would get to the right diagnosis. There was something about him that I trusted, he spent a good 25 minutes examining my shoulder, asking me questions, and really getting to know me. I was ultimately diagnosed with a posterior labrum tear that also contributed to a cyst in my back due to the leaking shoulder fluid. Dr. Allen reassured me that it was fixable and he would be able to get me back to not only full range of motion, but to full strength. It was music to my ears because I am a very active person! I had my surgery on January 29, 2014 at the HSS and everyone there was incredible. I never once felt like just another patient. They listened to my concerns, answered all my questions, kept my family informed, and were very on point with follow-up calls. I spent a total of 4 long weeks in the immobilizer sling and on February 26th it came off. I was able start physical therapy at a fantastic facility recommended by Dr. Allen. After my first session, I wasn't in any pain and the highlight of my day was finally being able to put my hair in a pony tail! Since then, I've progressed well and attend PT 3 times a week. I have a bit a of soreness but nothing a few ibuprofen can't help. I work with 2 PTs that I've affectionately call my "Shoulder Squad." They are very mindful and follow the HSS/Dr. Allen protocol for my recovery. Even though I'm only 6 weeks post-op, I can raise my arm over my head and every day it gets better. It's funny to think how scared I was to have this surgery and not be able to use my arm for who knows how long. I can honestly say that meeting Dr. Allen and having the repair done at HSS were the best decisions I could have made. I'm overly confident that sooner rather than later, I will be back to full strength. I can't thank Dr. Allen and HSS enough for fixing my "broken wing"!