I have had the great fortune of training, traveling, and competing with some of the greatest people on earth. Throughout it all I have been even more fortunate to have done it all relatively injury free. Obviously, with a heavy workload, and dynamic conditions beyond human control, some minor hitches occurred - but these are to be expected.
For the first time I face an unknown. Last week I had an MRI Arthrogram performed on my right shoulder. From these films, my first Orthopedic visit resulted in not-so-nice results. A partial tear of the superior aspect (the top) of the Labrum shown on the semi-grainy plastic films.
To get the immediate question out of the way - Yes. Surgery is an option. No. This is not the only option.
I am currently in the process of seeking 2nd and 3rd opinions from other Orthopedists, and will determine my route of treatment after these consults.
As a result of the circumstances, and the uncertainties accompanying them, I have elected to suspend my planned competitive trip to the Gold Coast of Australia. The potential for worsening the damage by training the way I would in that environment is too great to ignore.
No matter the course of action, I am confident that I will return to the competitive forum stronger and hungrier than before.
"Never Never Never Give Up!"
~Winston Churchill
