I think survival instinct takes over when "exciting" conditions present themselves. You're able to do more than you ever could under normal circumstances. Glad you're fine.
Sorry to hear about the shoulder...from what I'm told and from what I'm experiencing, healing takes a looooong time. I'm having mine MRI'ed on Tuesday, a little over 3 months and 30 days of therapy later.
Be well and see you in the woods soon...the roads too, perhaps, if you're ever up New Paltz way...