News Back in the game: Swiss runner-up again thanks to shoulder surgery
Beach volleyball is his passion – but shoulder pain sidelined Charles Müller. Following a successful operation at the Schulthess Klinik, he is not only pain-free but at the top of his game again.
Charles Müller is athletic, ambitious, and loves beach volleyball. He had played at a high level for years. However, persistent shoulder pain started to take a greater toll on him. When he came to the Schulthess Klinik in autumn 2022, it was clear to him: a solution was needed if top-level sport was to remain a part of his life. The diagnosis was a rupture of the supraspinatus tendon, an important rotator cuff muscle. In addition, the infraspinatus muscle was weakened. This combination severely impaired his shoulder function – especially during overhead movements, typical in beach volleyball.
Surgery as an opportunity
PD Dr. med. Florian Freislederer, Senior Physician at the Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Clinic, recommended an arthroscopic reconstruction of the supraspinatus tendon – a procedure with clear potential, but also requiring patience in the healing process. “We talked openly about the possible restrictions. It was important for Mr. Müller to be actively involved in the decision-making and feel motivated to pursue this path”, said Dr. Freislederer.
In better shape than ever before
The operation was successful, and the follow-up treatment progressed well. Just three months later, mobility was very good, and after six months, full function was restored with no pain. Charles Müller harnessed his new strength: He returned to the court in 2024 and became the Swiss runner-up in U50 beach volleyball. “The operation played a major role in my recovery. Today, I feel stronger than ever before and can do what I love again”, said Müller. This is a powerful example of how modern shoulder surgery, combined with patient dedication, can help bring athletic goals back within reach.
