The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles in the upper arm that helps stabilize the shoulder joint and supports arm movement. This important structure can become torn due to acute injury or degeneration over time. The resulting pain and weakness can greatly decrease arm function. If you are experiencing symptoms of a torn rotator cuff, you may be wondering: Can a rotator cuff tear heal by itself? Or, is surgery required to resolve the discomfort, reduced range of motion and other symptoms caused by this injury?
Generally speaking, most rotator cuff tears will not heal on their own without some form of treatment. However, surgery isn’t always needed to restore adequate function in the affected arm. For many patients, non-surgical methods can be effective in alleviating pain and improving shoulder strength. Examples of possible non-surgical treatment options include:
- – Steroid injections
- – Anti-inflammatory medications
- – Physical therapy
Can a Rotator Cuff Tear Heal on its Own?
For most cases, the answer to “Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?” will be no. For instance, if rotator cuff tear symptoms persist after several months of conservative treatment, surgical rotator cuff repair may be advisable. Surgery may also be recommended for active individuals who depend on overhead arm movement for work or athletics.
Now that you are familiar with how individual factors can influence the answer to “Can a rotator cuff tear heal on its own?,” hopefully you have a better idea of which course of treatment may be most appropriate for you.
Explore Your Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Options with Dr. Soffer
If you’re ready to seek treatment for your shoulder symptoms, a skilled orthopedic surgeon such as Dr. Stephen Soffer can help guide you towards the best treatment option based on your age, your activity level and your specific injury.
Recognized as one of America’s Top Doctors, Dr. Soffer has years of experience in diagnosing and treating torn rotator cuffs and other shoulder issues using the most advanced methods available. You can trust that he will accurately diagnose your injury or condition and recommend the treatment option that is best suited to you.
If you’d like to schedule an appointment to discuss your shoulder symptoms and treatment with Dr. Soffer, please call our office at 610-375-4949. We look forward to helping you find an effective solution for your shoulder pain as soon as possible.
