Does a sports medicine perform rotator cuff repair?

A sports medicine doctor can examine shoulder strength and movement, review imaging, discuss non-surgical options and refer you when a tear may need repair. The surgeon explains the technique and anaesthesia, repairs the tendon to the bone when appropriate, and sets early protection instructions. Sports medicine and physiotherapy may then guide pain control, gradual mobility, strengthening and a staged return to work, exercise or sport. The suitable plan depends on the tear, symptoms, activity needs and overall health.

Avoid heavy lifting or repeated overhead activity until you have individual advice. Keep a record of night pain, weakness and tasks you cannot complete. Take imaging reports and medication details to the appointment. If surgery is recommended, ask how the sling, driving, work duties and rehabilitation schedule will affect your routine; do not test repaired tissues with forceful exercise before clearance.

Seek urgent care after a major injury causing a visibly deformed shoulder, inability to move the arm, marked weakness, numbness, or a hand that becomes cold or changes colour. After repair, contact the surgical team promptly for fever, wound drainage, worsening redness, uncontrolled pain, new severe swelling or sudden loss of movement.

What does my imaging show? Why might repair help me? Who will perform the operation? How long must the repair be protected? Which exercises are safe at each stage?