I have had a weak shoulder for many years; always thought I probably had some rotator cuff injury. A couple of weeks ago while swinging a golf club I had a knifing pain in the shoulder. Now it is fine except occasionally it will pop (associated with pain and inability to lift the arm). If I use the other arm to lift it above my head - it fixes it. Some small amount of aching, but range of motion is normal, otherwise it is fine. But orthopedist is saying surgery to repair. After reading some of the problems folks have discussed on this forum, I sure hate to go under the knife if I don't have to. Any advice?