Friends warned me recovery takes about 18 months, and sure enough that's about what it took. You simply cannot do whatever movement causes the pain, even if this means giving up a hobby for awhile. This is NOT one of those things you can work through. Note that if you're not aggravating it, by definition you don't need painkillers. (I did use ice packs during the first few days). I found stretches that worked, never sought professional help. Now, (at 63) my shoulders are stronger than ever, e.g. I can do dumbbell flies with 35 pounders.

Incidentally, the stretch that worked best I discovered by accident: I'm a truck driver and I was lifting the hood during my usual pre-trip and I noticed how good it felt as I pushed it smoothly and slowly above my head to full extension, then held it a few seconds. I attribute my recovery to a combination of time (patience) and this one stretch, and I continue to do it every morning, counterbalancing it with other stretches like pulling. (The only problem is I can't think of a way to duplicate this particular stretch in the gym! Maybe a standing press with a light bar). In fact I stretch at every opportunity during the day - I believe it helps prevent injuries in general. Listen to your body.