Question 1

What is the rotator cuff?

Accepted Answer

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround your shoulder joint. They help lift and rotate your arm and keep the ball of your shoulder centered in the socket. When these tendons tear, it's like a rope fraying or ripping - the muscle can't pull properly anymore.

Question 2

Will my rotator cuff heal on its own?

Accepted Answer

Partial tears may improve with physiotherapy, though the actual tear rarely heals. Full-thickness tears don't heal on their own - the torn ends pull apart and the tear often gets larger over time. However, many people function well without surgery using physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding muscles. The decision for surgery depends on your age, activity level, pain, and weakness - not just the presence of a tear.

Question 3

Do I need surgery?

Accepted Answer

Not everyone needs surgery. Consider surgery if: you're active and want to return to overhead activities, you have significant weakness, pain hasn't improved after 3-6 months of physiotherapy, or the tear happened suddenly from injury. Many older, less active people do well without surgery. About 50-60% of rotator cuff tears are managed non-surgically.

Question 4

What happens if I don't have surgery?

Accepted Answer

The tear may get bigger over time, and the muscles may weaken and become fatty (this makes later surgery harder). However, many people manage well with physiotherapy and pain relief. Your surgeon can help weigh the risks of surgery against the risks of waiting. If you're over 65 and don't do overhead activities, non-surgical treatment is often recommended.

Question 5

How successful is rotator cuff surgery?

Accepted Answer

Success varies with tear size and tissue quality. Small tears: 90-95% stay healed. Medium tears: 75-85% success. Large tears: 60-75% success. Even if the repair doesn't fully heal, most people (80-90%) report significant pain improvement and better function. Success is lower in smokers, people with diabetes, workers compensation claims, and massive tears with poor muscle quality.

Medical Disclaimer

Rotator Cuff Tears

📖What is Rotator Cuff Tears?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention