From conservative physical therapy to arthroscopic surgical repair — our orthopedic shoulder specialists offer a full continuum of care for rotator cuff tears, with the goal of returning you to pain-free function as efficiently as possible.
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons is damaged — either from a sudden injury or from gradual degeneration over time.
Partial tears involve damage to part of the tendon. Full-thickness tears extend completely through the tendon, separating it from the bone. The supraspinatus tendon is most commonly torn.
MRI is the most reliable imaging study to characterize tear size, chronicity, and muscle quality — all critical factors in selecting the optimal treatment.
Shoulder pain at night — particularly when lying on the affected shoulder
Pain when reaching overhead, behind your back, or lifting objects
Weakness in the shoulder — difficulty holding the arm up or lifting
A crackling or popping sensation when moving the shoulder
Shoulder pain that started after a fall or sudden forceful movement
Targeted physical therapy strengthens the muscles surrounding the rotator cuff to compensate for the tear, improves range of motion, and can significantly reduce pain. Many partial tears respond well to a structured PT program.
An ultrasound or fluoroscopy-guided cortisone injection into the subacromial space can provide meaningful pain relief and allow patients to engage more effectively in physical therapy.
When conservative care fails or the tear is large and acute, arthroscopic surgery can reattach the torn tendon to the bone using small anchors — minimally invasive, with fast recovery compared to open surgery.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses concentrated growth factors from your own blood to promote tendon healing, and may be recommended for partial tears or as an adjunct to surgical repair.
Board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and upper extremity conditions, including rotator cuff repair and shoulder replacement.
Sports medicine specialist focused on non-surgical and surgical treatment of shoulder injuries in athletes and active patients.
Orthopedic sports medicine surgeon experienced in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and return-to-sport rehabilitation planning.
No. Many partial tears and some full-thickness tears respond well to conservative treatment including physical therapy and corticosteroid injections. Surgery is typically considered when pain and function do not improve after 3 to 6 months, or in cases of acute large tears in young, active patients.
Recovery from arthroscopic rotator cuff repair typically takes 4 to 6 months for return to full activity. The first 6 weeks focus on protecting the repair in a sling; physical therapy begins shortly after and progresses over several months.
Yes. Untreated tears, particularly full-thickness tears, can enlarge over time due to continued mechanical stress and muscle degeneration. Large, chronic tears can become more difficult to repair surgically. Early evaluation is important to preserve your options.
Yes. Conservative treatment, diagnostic imaging, injections, and rotator cuff surgery are covered by most major insurance plans when medically indicated. We accept most insurance and can verify your benefits before your appointment.
Full overview of shoulder conditions and surgical procedures offered by our board-certified shoulder specialists.
Comprehensive sports injury evaluation and treatment for athletes and active patients of all ages.
A guide to recognizing rotator cuff tear symptoms and understanding your evaluation and treatment options.
Restore Orthopedics & Spine is located in Orange, CA, serving patients throughout Orange County including Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Tustin, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove, Yorba Linda, Brea, and Placentia, as well as Los Angeles County communities including La Habra, Whittier, Downey, Cerritos, and Long Beach. We also welcome patients from Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
Same-week appointments. On-site MRI. Conservative and surgical options.