I am having part of my shoulder blade removed because of chronic problems with snapping scapula. My doctor said I have to wait at least six to eight weeks afterward before doing any kind of active exercise. This seems like an awfully long time. Why will I have to wait so long?

After the corner of the scapula is surgically removed, the muscles have to be reattached to the scapula. The extra time is needed to make sure the muscles heal solidly to the bone. Active exercise too soon after this type of surgery make the new muscle attachments more likely to pull loose. Be sure to follow your doctor’s advice about exercise or activity after surgery.