Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear is a common shoulder injury involving damage to one or more of the four tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears can result from acute injury (falling, lifting) or gradual wear over time (degenerative tears). Rotator cuff tears are especially common in adults over 40 and in those who perform repetitive overhead motions.
Find a SpecialistSymptoms
- Pain when raising or lowering the arm
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Crackling sensation when moving the shoulder
- Pain at rest, especially when lying on the affected side
- Difficulty reaching behind the back
- Progressive loss of motion and strength
When to See a Doctor
See an orthopaedic specialist if shoulder pain persists for more than a few weeks, if you have significant weakness, or if an acute injury caused sudden pain and inability to lift your arm.
Treatment Options
Rest and physical therapy
Strengthening and stretching exercises can relieve symptoms for many patients with partial tears. Usually 6-12 weeks of therapy.
Steroid injections
Cortisone injections reduce inflammation and pain. Typically limited to 2-3 injections per year to avoid tendon weakening.
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
Minimally invasive surgery to reattach the torn tendon to the bone. Recommended for complete tears and active patients. Recovery takes 4-6 months.
Open surgical repair
Traditional surgery for large or complex tears. Longer recovery but necessary for some tear patterns.
Recovery Timeline
Conservative treatment: 6-12 weeks of physical therapy. Surgical repair: 4-6 months for most daily activities, 6-12 months for full strength. A sling is worn for 4-6 weeks post-surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a rotator cuff tear heal on its own?
Partial tears may improve with physical therapy and rest, but complete tears generally do not heal without surgery. The tendon cannot reattach to the bone on its own. However, many patients with partial or small tears manage symptoms successfully without surgery.
How serious is a rotator cuff tear?
Rotator cuff tears range from minor partial tears (manageable with therapy) to massive complete tears (requiring surgery). Left untreated, tears can enlarge over time and lead to chronic weakness and arthritis in the shoulder.
What type of doctor treats rotator cuff tears?
Orthopaedic surgeons specializing in shoulder surgery or sports medicine are the primary specialists for rotator cuff tears. They can evaluate the tear with physical examination and MRI, then recommend the best treatment approach.
Find a specialist for Rotator Cuff Tear
Compare orthopaedic surgeons who treat this condition.
Search specialistsRelated Specialty
Shoulder Specialists →Other Conditions
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.