Litany of badness, new shoulder recommended, alternative advice?

[kmikes]

So I have mild occasional shoulder pain, over the lat 10 years, and due to our health insurance running out at the end of the year decided to get it looked at. I can live with this but wanted to know if I can improve things somehow, in addition to doing a lot of things left handed. DR. rx was a shoulder replacement, and I hope if I make it another 10 years things may change.

The MRI results.
Severe degenerative changes of the acromioclavicular joint (doc says typical)

Likely partial-thickness bursal surface tearing involving the distal 2 cm of the anterior supraspinatus tendon (Dr Says rotator cuff)

Rim rent style tear involving the posterior aspect of the distal infrasinatus fibers with likely fill thickness component given the fluid in the subacromion and subdeltoid bursa. (Dr. Says rotator cuff)

Moderat osteoarthritic changes of the glenohumeral joint with full thickness articular cartilage loss over the glenoid and subchondral cystic changes. (Dr. put an asterisk and OA Shoulder, I assume Osteo Arthritis)

Degenerative tearing involving antesuperior labrum extending into the superior labrum and posterosupperior labrum. (doc says Labral tear)

Moderate tendonitius and partial thickess articular surface tearing of the superior subscapularus tendon. (doc Says Rotator Cuff)

Moderate tendonitis of the proximal long head of the biceps tendon at the level of the rotator interval and biceps complex. (doc Says Biceps Inflamation.)

Sure I know it looks like a grime diagnosis, but I know what to do and what not to do. I stretch, and it helps, Most days are fine but today a little burn. I imagine it is a lifetime of abuse bringing me to this stage. The DR. suggested Cortisone if things get bad but cautioned me as Cortisone can weaken tendons.

A full shoulder replacement was his cure, and to let him know when I am ready. I am not ready and asked about glucosamine and condroiten, and he said in his studies there is no conclusive proof. I asked should I quit golf to save wear and tear on my shoulder and he said no.

Just throwing this out there if anyone has any ideas. thanks in advance.

[Heidi]

Have you tried any form of PT?
If you find stretching helps, then a full rehab programme to help strengthen the shoulder may work wonders and help you to put off any surgery for a very long time.

[kmikes]

My doc said in his experience therapy has aggravated rather than improved the situation. I do stretching exercises but wonder if you have some good links for strengthening.