What is the first treatment for a rotator cuff tear?

A rotator cuff tear can affect the tendons that help lift and rotate the shoulder. The size and location of the tear, its cause, arm strength, pain, work demands, and overall health all influence treatment. Initial care aims to reduce irritation while maintaining useful shoulder movement.

Physiotherapy may begin with comfortable mobility and shoulder-blade control, then progress to strengthening the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles. A cortisone injection may be discussed for selected pain patterns, but it is not suitable for everyone and does not repair a torn tendon.

Avoid heavy overhead lifting, sudden pulling, and repeated painful reaching until the shoulder has been assessed. Keep the elbow and shoulder moving gently within a comfortable range, and use only pain-relief medicines that are appropriate for your health history.

Attend follow-up visits so strength, range of motion, and function can be checked. If weakness remains substantial, the tear followed an injury, or rehabilitation does not restore useful function, a shoulder specialist may discuss repair or other surgical options.

Arrange an assessment for ongoing night pain, difficulty lifting the arm, or weakness that affects dressing, work, or reaching. Seek prompt care after a fall or forceful injury if the arm suddenly becomes weak, visibly deformed, cold, numb, or difficult to move.

Where is the tear, and how does it affect shoulder strength? What movements should I avoid temporarily? What should my physiotherapy goals be? Would an injection help my pain, and when would repair be considered?