The Gillett Health Podcast

Shoulder Pain: Is surgery always the answer?

14 snips
Sep 30, 2025
Dr. Dan Gurley, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder injuries, shares insights on various surgical approaches and treatment options. He discusses the pros and cons of shoulder surgeries, especially for older adults, and highlights the importance of tailored imaging. The conversation delves into innovative topics like AI predictions for injuries and the potential of peptides in healing. Dan also emphasizes the significance of proper training to prevent injuries, especially in athletes, and offers advice on managing common concerns like AC joint inflammation.
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ANECDOTE

Achilles Story And Odd Rehab Win

  • Dr. Dan Gurley shared his personal history of Achilles tendonitis that later progressed to ruptures in both tendons.
  • He described using night splints and how plyometric work unexpectedly helped during rehab.
ADVICE

Treat Patients, Not MRIs

  • Treat patients, not pictures: correlate MRI findings with exam and symptoms before recommending surgery.
  • Avoid fixing labral tears in older patients because surgery can cause stiffness and worsen function.
INSIGHT

Labrum Repairs Can Backfire In Older Patients

  • Labrum's main role is preventing instability, and repairing it in stiff older shoulders can reduce motion and increase pain.
  • Many people over 40 have labral tears on imaging that are not clinically significant.
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