Dr. Fisher OrthopedicsSchedule a ConsultationConditions Treated
Rotator Cuff Tears
A rotator cuff tear can cause pain, weakness, night symptoms, and difficulty reaching or lifting. Treatment depends on tear size, symptoms, strength, tissue quality, activity goals, and how long the problem has been present.
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Common symptoms
- Pain on the side of the shoulder or upper arm
- Night pain or pain when lying on the affected side
- Weakness with lifting or reaching
- Pain after a fall, strain, or sudden injury
- Gradual loss of function over time
How it is diagnosed
- Exam of motion, strength, pain location, and impingement signs
- X-rays to look for arthritis, bone spurs, or other contributors
- MRI or ultrasound when a tear needs to be confirmed or characterized
- Review of prior treatment and functional goals
Nonsurgical treatment options
- Physical therapy focused on motion, shoulder blade mechanics, and strengthening
- Anti-inflammatory strategies and activity changes
- Injections when appropriate for pain control and inflammation
- Monitoring symptoms if strength and function are acceptable
When surgery may be considered
- Acute traumatic tears with meaningful weakness
- Persistent pain or dysfunction despite appropriate treatment
- Larger tears or tears at risk of progression based on patient factors
- The decision balances repairability, recovery time, and patient goals
Recovery expectations
- Rotator cuff recovery is measured in months, not days
- Healing protection comes before strengthening
- Therapy progression depends on tear pattern, repair quality, and surgeon instructions
Important note
This page is educational and cannot diagnose your condition. Your treatment plan should be based on an examination, imaging when needed, and a discussion with your medical team.