I'm going to have surgery for a shoulder impingement problem. How long will it be before I can return to work as a manual laborer?

Wear and tear on the shoulder over a long period of time can cause problems. Each time the arm is lifted up, tendons and the bursa can get squeezed. This is called shoulder impingement.

Over a period of years, this kind of friction can cause inflammation. When the bursa is affected, it's called bursitis. Tendonitis is a similar problem of the tendon. Chronic bursitis or tendonitis usually responds well to surgery.

Each doctor will have his or her own follow-up plan. If there are no serious complications, an office worker may expect to return to work in four to six weeks. Patients who are required to lift or carry heavy objects return to work after three months. Following a rehab program can help ensure a safe return to work.