What are the treatment options for rotator cuff tear?

A tear can be partial or full thickness and may follow an injury or develop in a tendon that has become weaker over time. Assessment considers pain, night symptoms, active shoulder movement, strength, tear size and tissue quality. Imaging may support this assessment, but treatment is guided by the whole clinical picture.

Physiotherapy can restore comfortable movement and strengthen the shoulder and shoulder-blade muscles. A cortisone injection may reduce inflammation and pain for a period, but it does not stitch a torn tendon. Rotator cuff repair aims to reattach suitable tendon tissue. When there is severe cuff damage with shoulder arthritis or poor repair potential, reverse shoulder replacement may be considered.

Begin with a clinician-led plan that protects the shoulder from painful overhead lifting while maintaining gentle, comfortable motion. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can build a graded programme. Discuss [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/) if pain prevents rehabilitation, including its suitability for your tendon and future surgery plans.

If weakness or disability continues, ask whether [Rotator Cuff Repair](/treatments/sports-and-arthroscopic-surgery/rotator-cuff-repair/) fits the tear. [Reverse Shoulder Replacement](/treatments/joint-replacement/reverse-shoulder-replacement/) is a different operation used for selected complex shoulder problems, not every tear.

Arrange assessment after a fall or lifting injury that causes sudden shoulder pain or loss of active movement. Seek prompt care for a visibly deformed shoulder, a numb or cold arm, severe swelling, or rapidly increasing weakness. During rehabilitation, report new pain that persists after exercise rather than pushing through it.

Ask whether the tear is partial or full thickness, what your strength and imaging show, and what improvement is realistic with rehabilitation. If an injection or operation is proposed, ask how it affects tendon healing, recovery steps, driving and overhead work.