Hi all, I am desperate for some advice. I am in SLC, Utah. I have been dealing with SRS for about 2.5 years. I suffered a weightlifting accident during a 500 lbs squat that put me in a compromising position. Since then, I have suffered dozens of slips around 6–7 ribs on the front left side. I am in pain/uncomfortable most days, but it’s manageable. Some days are worse than others.

I am convinced that surgery is my only option to fix this. I consulted with Dr. John Stringham, a thoracic surgeon. He recommended surgery after hearing my story. He was very nonchalant about it, told me he’s done dozens of surgeries, and didn’t even order imaging—just said he’d basically open me up and assess the situation. I was very skeptical about him, especially after reading stories from others. This type of surgery seems very serious. He acted like it was no big deal and that I would be back to lifting like I was before. Unfortunately, he is the only doctor I’ve found in Utah that knows about SRS. I don’t know his exact method. He did mention suturing the ribs in place. He said he does this surgery monthly and his patients had great success 

I am wondering, is surgery even worth it for me? My pain is manageable—nowhere near what some of you report. I don’t want to do surgery and make it worse. However, I am desperate to get back to lifting. It was my #1 passion before getting injured. I am definitely willing to take some risk to get back to lifting again. I had moderate success with physical therapy, but my rib would always pop out again when the weights got heavier. Does anyone recommend surgeons in Utah? The only other one I have heard of is Dr. Thomas White. I called his office and have not been able to get an appointment.


Desperate for advice