Rotator Cuff Tears: Do You Need Surgery or Physiotherapy?
Many partial and degenerative rotator cuff tears respond well to a structured strengthening programme over 6 to 12 weeks. Large, sudden tears in younger or active people may need a surgical opinion, followed by several months of rehab.
Rotator cuff problems are a leading cause of shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm or sleeping on that side. A scan showing a tear doesn't always mean you need an operation.
Symptoms
Pain on the outside of the upper arm, pain lifting or reaching, weakness, and night pain. A sudden injury with immediate weakness suggests a more significant tear.
Physiotherapy without surgery
Progressive rotator cuff and shoulder blade strengthening, movement retraining and activity modification. Most people improve within three months.
After surgical repair
Rehab follows your surgeon's protocol: protection in a sling, then gradual movement and strengthening. Full recovery commonly takes four to six months.
Related physiotherapy services
Frequently asked questions
Will a rotator cuff tear heal on its own?+
The tear itself may not fully heal, but strengthening the muscles around it often restores pain-free function.
Medical disclaimer: this article is general education and does not replace a personal assessment. If your pain is severe, worsening, or accompanied by numbness, weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control, seek care promptly.
Book with N S Physiotherapy
In clinic in Eco Park, Centurion, or home visits across Centurion and Midrand.
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