Back in the Swing of Things: Bentonville Orthopedic Patient Returns to Golf

5/19/2026

At 66 years old, Timothy “Tim” Morin is no stranger to the wear and tear that comes with an active lifestyle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Morin spent years playing hockey before earning his forestry degree from the University of Minnesota and building a career in forestry across California. Along the way, years of sports, physical work and golf gradually took a toll on his shoulders.

“I think that’s where my shoulder problems started,” Morin said of his hockey days. “Golf was definitely a contributing factor too.”

Over time, the pain and limited mobility began interfering with the activities he loved most.

“I am a golfer, and I couldn’t play golf anymore,” he said. “It was just too painful, and I had limited range of motion. That was the motivation for getting my shoulder replaced so I could play golf again.”

Morin first sought care from his primary care provider, Dr. Scott Musick at Northwest Medical Plaza at Sugar Creek, who referred him to Dr. Ron Schechter at Northwest Orthopedics – Bentonville. After years of orthopedic procedures, including two knee replacements, Morin admitted he approached another surgery cautiously.

“My primary care physician highly recommended Dr. Schechter, and he did a great job,” Morin said.

On Dec. 24, 2025, Morin underwent a reverse total shoulder replacement performed by Dr. Schechter. Despite the significance of the procedure, Morin said the recovery process exceeded his expectations.

“This shoulder surgery with Dr. Schechter was a walk in the park compared to the knee replacement surgeries I’ve had,” he said.

Morin began physical therapy the day after surgery and was off pain medication within three days. Just two weeks later, he had already noticed significant improvements.

“My physical therapist was very impressed with how much range of motion I already had,” he said.

At his eight-week follow-up appointment, Dr. Schechter noted Morin was progressing very well and no longer had any limitations. While he has not yet returned to the golf course, Morin continues to focus on rebuilding strength and flexibility to ensure a smooth, pain-free return to the game he enjoys.

“There’s obviously pain with some movements post-surgery, but that is to be expected,” Morin said. “I’m very happy with Dr. Schechter. I’m very pleased with my progress overall.”

Morin was also impressed with the overall patient experience throughout his care journey.

“This is the only doctor that has appointments that are on time,” he joked.

Following the success of his first shoulder replacement, Morin is already considering returning to Dr. Schechter to address issues in his other shoulder as well.

Having surgery on Christmas Eve may not sound ideal to most people, but for Morin, the outcome made it worthwhile.

“It was a good Christmas present,” he said.

Now, with recovery progressing ahead of schedule, Morin is looking forward to getting back on the golf course this spring, while making sure not to rush the process.

Northwest Orthopedics – Bentonville offers comprehensive orthopedic care to help patients return to the activities they love. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit NW-Physicians.com or call 479-553-3360.

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