Rotator cuff tearsdo not heal well with time.
They tend to either enlarge or, at best, stabilize in size.
Many people have rotator cuff tears, but no symptoms of shoulder pain.
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It is important to not immobilize the shoulder as it is possible to develop afrozen shoulder.
Learning proper ways to use the shoulder can place less strain on the rotator cuff muscles.
The rotator cuff only accounts for four of the many muscles that surround the shoulder joint.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is the most important step in the treatment of a rotator cuff injury.
Strengthening the rotator cuff muscles is important to maintain normal shoulder function.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful in controlling the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear.
Ice can be applied intermittently as well as after activities that cause shoulder pain.
It is important to participate in the therapy and exercises even if the shoulder feels better after an injection.
But Will Non-Surgical Treatments Work?
Non-surgical treatmentscan provide relief of symptoms of a rotator cuff tear in some, but not all, people.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Determining when surgery is necessary depends on several factors.
As stated above, not all rotator cuff tears will need surgery for symptom relief.
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.Rotator Cuff Tears.
Harvard Health.Rotator Cuff Tears.
2015;24(12):3787-3792. doi:10.1007/s00167-015-3651-3
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair.
