I'm having the end of my collarbone shaved or cut off at the end of this week. I have a weight-lifter's competition next weekend. Will I be able to rehab and still compete in that amount of time?

You'll want to check with your surgeon to find out his or her recommendations first. Many experienced weight-lifters are able to continue training carefully. They can resume their program as early as three days after surgery. Most are back in full swing by the end of a week.

Weight-lifters are pleased that without the pain, they can quickly get back to their pre-operative level of lifting. In fact, some even report exceeding their training weight now that the pain is gone.

If the surgeon knows your plans, it's possible to modify the procedure just a bit to stabilize the joint for a quick return-to-sport. The coracoacromial ligament can be transferred over the end of the bone that has been cut. This helps protect and stabilize the joint. It makes power lifting more comfortable for many athletes.