Back on the River After Shoulder Replacement with Dr. Liotta
- Category: ValleyOrtho
- Posted On:
- Written By: Mason Wheatley
Rivers have always run through Doug Goodwin’s life.
He grew up on Grosse Ile, Michigan, the largest island in the Detroit River. After high school, he ventured west and traded the Detroit for the Roaring Fork River — one of many that would shape his life, from Alaska’s Nenana to California’s Kern and Idaho’s Salmon.
Once whitewater rafting took hold, it never let go.
“It’s a big mental game and a challenge. You’ve got to keep your cool and stay focused — you’re totally engaged. There’s nothing else you’re doing. You’re just there.”
After decades running advanced and expert-level whitewater rapids — not to mention regularly kayaking, paddleboarding and skiing — Doug’s shoulders showed their wear. Shoulder injuries are highly common in the sport, and he had his share of them. Several dislocations eventually led to his first shoulder surgery in the ‘90s.
When shoulder pain began to resurface decades later, Doug felt it was time to see a doctor. In fact, he already had someone in mind.
Doug chose Tito Liotta, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician at ValleyOrtho. Their history goes back to the early 2000s, when Dr. Liotta performed Doug’s ACL surgery after a skiing accident at Aspen Highlands. The experience stuck with him.
“Dr. Liotta has an exceptional bedside manner. He’ll take the time to answer questions. He values what you say and listens. You can tell he really wants to help you return to what you enjoy doing.”
Despite living in Montrose, Colorado, Doug knew the trip to ValleyOrtho was worth it.
Doug’s X-rays revealed that the cartilage in his shoulder was worn away, leaving bone to grind against bone. Given his active lifestyle, Dr. Liotta recommended a total shoulder replacement to relieve pain and restore strength and range of motion. Surgery took place in November 2025.
The procedure went smoothly, and over the next several months, Doug committed to all the habits that make for a successful surgery recovery — attending physical therapy regularly, staying active and getting the proper nutrition.
By summer 2026, Doug was ready to put his shoulder to the test. After half a year away from the water, he loaded up his cataraft and headed to Idaho’s East Fork of the South Fork of the Salmon River, a challenging wilderness tributary known for its technical whitewater. Over three back-to-back runs, each lasting three days, Doug covered more than 100 miles of Class IV and V rapids — pain-free.
“I was unsure how I was going to do on the water, but my shoulder felt great. It was a spectacular trip and a huge elation for me.”
Excited by the experience — and already thinking about future adventures — Doug shared the news and some photos with Dr. Liotta.
“He called me a beast,” Doug says with a laugh.
Expert Treatment for Shoulder Conditions at ValleyOrtho
The shoulder is one of the body’s most versatile joints, supported by more than 20 muscles that help control movement and function. Because it allows such a wide range of motion, it is also more vulnerable to injury.
Early treatment — including rest and physical therapy — can often prevent shoulder pain from worsening. However, additional evaluation may be recommended if you experience:
- Pain that persists for several weeks despite rest, ice and over-the-counter medication
- Pain that interferes with daily activities, sleep, work or recreational activities
- Weakness, stiffness or limited range of motion
- Difficulty lifting the arm overhead, reaching behind the back or carrying objects
- Pain after an injury, fall or sudden movement
- Little to no improvement after conservative treatment, including physical therapy, medications or injections
Next Steps and More Resources
Dr. Liotta is currently seeing patients at ValleyOrtho clinics in Glenwood Springs, Willits and Eagle. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit ValleyOrtho or call 970.384.7140.