From Shoulder Pain to Life Without Limits Marsha’s New “Leash” on Life

For Traverse City resident Marsha W., chronic shoulder pain wasn’t just a nuisance—it was a daily interference. Her discomfort began decades ago when she started feeling left shoulder pain in the late 1990s. “I was told to stop carrying heavy bags and purses with that shoulder,” she recalls. But switching to her right side only shifted her pain. Over time, both shoulders became a burden.

Despite her pain, the active and adventurous Marsha continued to pursue her passions. In 2004, she started a dog-walking business, inspired by her love of animals, including her own dogs. But it wasn’t long before walking her furry clients became a challenge. “Even my own dog was difficult to manage,” she says. “And I love yoga, but that became harder and harder to do.”

Eventually, even basic tasks like cleaning—especially vacuuming—and even sleeping started to feel impossible. “I’m a side sleeper and couldn’t sleep on either side,” Marsha shares.

Calling It Quits

By September 2024, Marsha had reached her limit. “My range of motion was declining. It was getting very painful just to do anything.” When she turned to her primary care physician for help, one name stood out: Dr. Dubiel at Munson Orthopedic Institute. “Dr. Dubiel had an excellent surgical reputation and a good bedside manner. That was very important to me,” she says.

Having had a successful lumbar spinal fusion at Munson Healthcare in 2022, Marsha felt confident returning to her same hometown healthcare system for orthopedic care. “Everything was so timely. I got an appointment right away,” she says. With her shoulder surgery scheduled, Marsha felt a wave of relief. “The pain was overwhelming, and I knew the surgery had to be better.”

Turning the Corner: Marsha’s Shoulder Surgery & Recovery

On the day of her shoulder replacement surgery, Marsha felt some normal per-operative jitters. “My biggest fear was pain, but I was already in so much pain that I knew it had to get better,” she says. And better, it did—nearly right away. She was walking the same day and couldn’t believe the difference.

“Once the surgery was over, it was just a piece of cake. I immediately felt pain-free,” she says.  “My experience with Munson Orthopedic Institute and the hospital staff was absolutely wonderful. They were professional, positive, and very helpful.”

Although she had a brief stint of healing ahead of her, Marsha’s recovery went smoothly. Following Dr. Dubiel’s pain management protocol, she wore a sling with a pillow for six weeks, with pain-relieving medication to support her as she healed. “The only discomfort I felt was when the pillow was removed at the three-week point,” she says. “But I was able to manage it with medication.”

Just two weeks after her surgery, and to her delight, Marsha was slowly walking her dog. Four weeks later, she began at-home physical therapy, leaning on a handful of simple exercises. “That was the only rehab I needed. I appreciated not having to pay out-of-pocket for additional therapy.”

As time passed, Marsha marveled at how easy and effective her left shoulder replacement surgery was. But there was one remaining hindrance: her right shoulder. Marsha knew what she needed to do—but this time, with fewer “what ifs” wracking her brain. She elected to have her other shoulder replaced at Munson Orthopedic Institute.

“Both shoulders are absolutely pain-free. My neck pain has been reduced, and my range of motion has increased incredibly. I’m so pleased,” she says.

Feeling Better Than Ever

Marsha is back to walking her husky mix without fear, vacuuming, and having the freedom to sleep on her side—something she hadn’t done in over 20 years. “That meant so much to me.”

She’s also focused on mountains, dogs, and warriors- as in poses- at her yoga classes and feels better than she has in years. “Everyone says I look different. My sister says it’s because I’m not in pain anymore. I’m not cranky or losing my temper. It’s made a big difference.

Watch Marsha reflect on her journey and share how life looks today—pain-free, active, and full of joy.

Choosing surgery with Munson Orthopedic Institute was so life-changing for her that Marsha sent two friends for consultations, and they’re now thrilled with their results. “I can’t offer enough praise for every visit I had. The staff were encouraging, kind, and upbeat—it really meant a lot.”

Ready to start your own new chapter?

Munson Orthopedic Institute features a highly specialized team of surgeons who each practice in a specific area — like shoulders, knees and hips, and sports medicine. With several locations spanning across Northern Michigan, Munson Orthopedic Institute is known for patient-centered care that focuses on listening, non-surgical options for relief, and outstanding surgical skills for long-term success.

Schedule your consultation today.