I Am Too Old

[Chuck75]

Has anyone encountered this problem with the VA? The VA has been treating me for shoulder pain for roughly 8 months. My doctor decided to do a MRI to see what's going on. He told me I have a torn labrum and bicep tendon and a bone spur in my right shoulder that is causing pain and limited range of motion. There were other problems he discussed, but I didn't understand him. (the left shoulder isn't much better).

He told me in most cases he would refer me to a surgeon, but he won't. Why? I am too old for the operation. I saw a doctor outside of the VA health care system. He asked me why I'm coming to him and not the VA, and I told him. I'm 51 and I'm too old.

51 years old by itself should not be a problem. They routinely operate on patients around here for shoulder problems such as bone spurs. Other medical conditions may make you a high risk. As to a decision to let the VA operate instead of outside specialists, maybe the PA was trying to tell you something that could not be said outright.

Any suggestions?

Edited May 11, 2012 by Chuck75

[john999]

Do you have medicare of some other insurance. I had the same operation more or less when I was 54 years old. It may help with ROM and not help with pain but I would not let clowns at VA do it.

[retiredat44]

I can never have an ECRP of the pancreas again, because of complication from the last one with pancreas disease.. I am now 57.. if I get one more infection, (doesn't matter how I get it..) if an infection of the pancreas occurs they have to remove my pancreas.. my back is too far gone, they cannot operate on it, degenerative disc disease, it's just too diseased.. so they put shots in every few months... I suppose when you have issues and if they lead to other issues, the consequences maybe worse than the cure... of course people int heir 70's get big operations al the time fixing everything.. I guess it is all on whether you are able to handle it.. and the doctor decides.. (other times insurance.. may decide)...

You maybe good for one operation, pick it wisely... you just don't know when the right one will come along, if at all..