Locations:
Search IconSearch

When Do Rotator Cuff Shoulder Injuries Absolutely Call for Surgery?

The Short Answer from an orthopedic surgeon

A caregiver measuring a woman's arm to assess her health and body measurements.

Q: When do rotator cuff injuries call for surgery?

A: The decision to have surgery for a rotator cuff injury is quite individual. In most cases, non-operative treatment will suffice.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

However, if the rotator cuff tear is complete, occurring after a traumatic injury in someone who is young and active, and if it results in loss of strength and mobility, then immediate rotator cuff repair is warranted (within three to four weeks).

Partial rotator cuff tears (and even some complete tears) often can be managed without surgery. Non-operative treatment consists of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and/or corticosteroid injections.

Remember to avoid overhead activities, which can exacerbate your pain.

Physical therapy involves working on range-of-motion exercises and strengthening both the rotator cuff muscles and other shoulder stabilizing muscles over three to six months.

Of course, shoulder pain does not necessarily mean a problem with the rotator cuff.

Other injuries that cause shoulder pain include:

  • Shoulder arthritis.
  • Adhesive capsulitis/frozen shoulder.
  • Biceps tendinitis.

Treatment for these problems also moves to surgery if conservative treatment fails.

There is a lot to consider when deciding what treatment is best for a rotator cuff injury. Have an open discussion with your doctor to decide about the optimal treatment.

— Kirk Haidet, MD, orthopaedic surgeon

Advertisement

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Person positioned on foam roller, stretching muscles
September 26, 2024/Exercise & Fitness
IT Band Stretches for Tight Muscles

Relieve a tight, achy and aggravated IT band, as well as hip and knee pain, with these at-home exercises

Person lying on yoga mat in living room doing a piriformis stretch
September 25, 2024/Exercise & Fitness
Here’s How Being Flexible Is Good for Your Health

Flexibility helps with your balance and range of motion, and can protect you from injuries

Legs and feet of person in blue leggings walking on a treadmill at gym
September 19, 2024/Exercise & Fitness
Health Benefits of Walking Backward

Turning your walk around can burn more calories, boost your mental health and improve your posture

Smiling Person briskly walking outside on sidewalk, jacket tied around waist
September 18, 2024/Heart Health
Can Walking Speed Be a Sign of Your Heart Health?

Studies show those who walk faster tend to have a lower risk of heart disease

Person outside, grabbing shoulder
September 17, 2024/Orthopaedics
Tendonitis vs. Tendinosis: How Can I Tell the Difference?

Both are forms of tendinopathy, but one is more of an acute injury caused by inflammation, while the other is the result of degeneration over time

Person using recumbent stationary bike at gym facility
September 12, 2024/Brain & Nervous System
Benefits of Exercise for Friedreich’s Ataxia

Staying active can help increase strength and flexibility, help maintain balance and coordination, and improve overall heart health

Person doing squats on mat at home
September 4, 2024/Weight Loss
This Is How To Lose Weight the Right Way — and Keep It Off

Successful weight loss takes a long-term commitment to healthy living — create a healthy lifestyle you can keep up

Group of people outside in city, doing over-shoulder stretching
August 29, 2024/Exercise & Fitness
Dynamic vs. Static Stretching: Is One Better?

While one focuses on stretching through movement, the other requires holding poses for 30 to 90 seconds — both can have a place in your fitness routine

Trending Topics

Female and friend jogging outside
How To Increase Your Metabolism for Weight Loss

Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress

stovetop with stainless steel cookware and glassware
5 Ways Forever Chemicals (PFAS) May Affect Your Health

PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body

jar of rice water and brush, with rice scattered around table
Could Rice Water Be the Secret To Healthier Hair?

While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims

Ad