Each year, an estimated 2 million Americans experience a shoulder injury that results in a rotator cuff tear, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
Rotator cuff tears are common in athletes, active individuals, and adults over the age of 40.
With each decade, the risk of sustaining a rotator cuff tear increases. Not every rotator cuff tear needs surgery, but knowing when to consider surgical options can make a difference in recovery and the long-term health of your shoulder.
Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Matthew Pifer, MD, specializes in advanced, minimally invasive techniques to repair rotator cuff tears and restore shoulder strength and function.
If you have a rotator cuff tear, getting expert advice on whether surgery is an appropriate option in your case is wise.
Many partial or mild rotator cuff tears respond well to non-surgical treatments. Rest, activity modification, and physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles and relieve pain.
Anti-inflammatory medications or regenerative therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, may also help stimulate healing and reduce inflammation.
People who commit to consistent rehabilitation, especially within the first few months after injury, can often avoid surgery. However, ongoing pain or limited motion after several months of conservative care is a sign that the tendon may not be healing properly.
Dr. Pifer often recommends considering surgery when a tear is large, complete, or the result of a sudden injury. If you’ve experienced a sharp pain or a “popping” sensation during an accident or while lifting something heavy, there’s a higher chance the tendon has fully detached.
You may also need surgery if:
Leaving a full-thickness rotator cuff tear untreated can lead to muscle atrophy and further tendon damage, making future repair more difficult.
Dr. Pifer specializes in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, a minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions and specialized tools to reattach the torn tendon to the bone.
This approach results in less tissue disruption, reduced scarring, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
After surgery, patients typically wear a sling for several weeks to protect the repair. Physical therapy begins gradually to restore range of motion, followed by strengthening exercises.
Most people regain full function within four to six months, although recovery times vary based on tear severity and individual healing.
Every shoulder injury is unique, and that’s why it’s crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation by an experienced orthopedic specialist like Dr. Pifer. At our Santa Barbara practice, patients receive personalized evaluations using advanced imaging and treatment planning.
From cutting-edge biologics to precision surgical repair, Dr. Pifer’s patient-centered approach ensures that every step of care is tailored to the patient's goals and recovery timeline.
If shoulder pain is preventing you from doing the things you enjoy or limiting or interrupting your life in any way, it’s time to get answers.
Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pifer to learn whether your rotator cuff tear may benefit from surgical repair and how to get back to living pain-free.
