Not every rotator cuff injury requires surgery. Many partial tears and cases of tendon inflammation improve with conservative treatment, including physical therapy, medications, and injections.
Surgery may be recommended if:
- You have a complete or large rotator cuff tear
- Your shoulder remains painful after several months of nonsurgical treatment
- You have significant weakness that limits daily activities
- You cannot comfortably lift or rotate your arm
- Your injury resulted from a traumatic accident
- Imaging shows a tear that is unlikely to heal on its own
