Rotator Cuff Repair – Getting Back to a Pain-Free Shoulder
Shoulder pain that won’t go away, especially when lifting your arm or reaching behind your back, can often be caused by a torn rotator cuff. This group of muscles and tendons helps keep your shoulder joint stable and allows you to move your arm. If the tear is serious and doesn’t heal with rest or therapy, rotator cuff repair surgery may be the next step toward getting your life back.
What Is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles and tendons that wrap around the shoulder joint. They keep the ball of your upper arm bone firmly in the socket and help you lift and rotate your arm. When one or more of these tendons tear, it can cause pain, weakness, and limit how well your arm works.
What Causes a Rotator Cuff Tear?
Rotator cuff tears can happen suddenly (like from a fall or lifting something heavy) or over time due to wear and tear. Common causes include:
- Repetitive shoulder use (especially in sports or work)
- Aging and natural tendon weakening
- Shoulder injuries or trauma
When Is Surgery Needed?
Not every tear needs surgery. Many people improve with physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, your doctor may recommend rotator cuff repair surgery if:
- You still have pain and weakness after months of non-surgical treatment
- The tear is large or getting worse
- You want to stay active and maintain full shoulder function
What Happens During Surgery?
Rotator cuff repair is usually done with arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera. The torn tendon is reattached to the bone using tiny anchors and sutures. In some cases, open surgery may be needed for large or complex tears.
The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours, and most people go home the same day.
What to Expect After Surgery
- Recovery time: Healing takes several months. The first few weeks your arm will be in a sling.
- Physical therapy: This is critical to help you regain motion and strength. It starts gradually and increases over time.
- Pain management: Medications and cold therapy can help manage pain early on. Most patients see significant improvements in shoulder strength and function, although full recovery may take 4 to 6 months, or longer for major tears.
Are There Risks?
As with any surgery, there are some risks, such as infection, stiffness, or the tendon not healing completely. Your surgeon will take steps to lower these risks and discuss what’s right for your individual case.