A doctor can do this by inserting small instruments into the shoulder and using other special tools to manipulate and repair the tendon. Sometimes, a surgeon will treat it by reattaching the tendon to its original attachment point.Īnother approach involves trimming the injured tendon or smoothing the affected area. The surgical approach to a rotator cuff tear depends upon the tear’s severity and position. The authors concluded that more research is necessary, although current evidence does not suggest surgery is a guaranteed success for rotator cuff tears. The evidence from this investigation suggests that surgery is not necessarily more effective than conservative treatments. Surgery may also be necessary for a tear greater than 3 centimeters.Ī doctor will discuss the likelihood of the repair being successful, and the range of motion a person can expect after the surgery.Ī 2015 meta-analysis covered studies on rotator cuff surgery versus conservative treatment. If the rotator cuff does not heal with conservative methods, a doctor may recommend surgical treatment. It is possible for a rotator cuff tear to worsen or persist over time, even with at-home treatments. Injections: A doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections into the shoulder to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.Examples of these include ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. Over-the-counter medications: Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) can help relieve pain.Physical and occupational therapy: Therapy exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder can help reduce the demands on the injured rotator cuff.A doctor may also recommend avoiding certain activities to reduce strain on the shoulder. Rest: Resting the affected shoulder and wearing a sling for a few days following the injury can help reduce inflammation and pain.The treatment for a rotator cuff repair often depends on the tear’s severity, and how much it is affecting the individual.Ī doctor will usually recommend conservative methods over surgical treatment whenever possible.Įxamples of conservative treatments for rotator cuff injuries include: Common occupations where a person is prone to a rotator cuff tear include carpentry and decorating. Examples of activities that increase the risk include baseball, rowing, and weightlifting.
Repetitive movements: Athletes and people who work with their hands are prone to rotator cuff injuries.A person may notice that the pain worsens when they lift their arm if the bone spur presses on the rotator cuff. Bone spurs: Bone spurs are overgrowths of bone that can occur from repetitive movements.This means injuries are more common after 40 years of age. Affected blood supply: Blood supply to the tendons lessens with age, which increases the risk of tearing a rotator cuff.Some of the potential contributors to chronic degeneration include: This degeneration is especially true for a person’s dominant arm. Chronic degenerationĪ person’s tendons naturally wear down as they age. These are just some of the common activities that can cause a rotator cuff tear.