Rotator Cuff Repair: Get Back to Pain-Free Movement and a Stronger Shoulder

Your shoulder is one of the most versatile joints in your body, allowing you to lift, reach, throw, and rotate with ease. But when the rotator cuff—a group of four essential muscles and tendons—gets torn, even simple movements like reaching for a cup, brushing your hair, or sleeping on your side can become painful and difficult.

If you’ve been struggling with persistent shoulder pain, weakness, or limited mobility, you’re not alone. Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common orthopaedic injuries, affecting millions of people every year—from athletes and active adults to those who simply overuse their shoulders over time.

The good news? Rotator cuff repair surgery can restore function, relieve pain, and get you back to the activities you love. At the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson (OIH), our expert surgeons use the latest techniques to help you recover stronger and faster.

What Happens When Your Rotator Cuff Is Torn?

Your rotator cuff is responsible for stabilizing and moving your shoulder. When it’s damaged, your arm loses strength, and simple tasks become difficult or painful.

Common causes of rotator cuff tears include:
✅ Repetitive overuse – Think baseball pitchers, tennis players, painters, or weightlifters who constantly engage in overhead movements.
✅ Aging and wear-and-tear – Over time, tendons weaken, making them more prone to injury.
✅ Traumatic injuries – Falls, heavy lifting, or sudden jerking motions can cause an acute tear.

Symptoms of a torn rotator cuff include:

• Shoulder pain, especially at night
• Weakness in the arm (struggling to lift objects)
• Limited range of motion (difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back)
• Clicking or popping sounds when moving the arm

If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it’s time to seek professional care.

Why Rotator Cuff Repair? The Life-Changing Benefits

If a rotator cuff tear doesn’t heal properly, it can lead to chronic pain, weakness, and even arthritis in the long run. That’s why surgical repair is often the best option for those with persistent symptoms.

Here’s what rotator cuff repair surgery can do for you:

1. Say Goodbye to Shoulder Pain

Chronic pain in the shoulder can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your sleep and limits everyday movements. Rotator cuff repair removes damaged tissue, restores proper

🔹 Phase 1: Initial Healing (Weeks 1-6) 

• Arm in a sling to protect the repair

• Passive motion exercises guided by a therapist

🔹 Phase 2: Strength and Mobility (Weeks 6-12) 

• Range-of-motion exercises to restore movement

• Light strength training to rebuild muscle function

🔹 Phase 3: Full Recovery (3-6 Months) 

• Advanced strength training and sport-specific movements

• Return to normal activities (sports, lifting, etc.)

Most patients regain full shoulder function within 4-6 months, with continued improvement over time.

Who Should Consider Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery?

Surgery is recommended for:
✅ Individuals with a full-thickness rotator cuff tear
✅ Patients who experience persistent pain, weakness, or limited mobility
✅ Athletes or workers who require strong shoulder function for their careers
✅ Individuals whose non-surgical treatments (therapy, injections) haven’t worked

Final Thoughts: Get Your Shoulder Back on Track

A torn rotator cuff doesn’t have to limit your life. With expert rotator cuff repair surgery at the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson, you can eliminate pain, restore strength, and regain full function in your shoulder. 

function, and eliminates long-term pain.

➡️ Key Benefit: A pain-free shoulder means better sleep and greater comfort in daily life.

2. Regain Full Strength and Mobility

Without treatment, a torn rotator cuff can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, making it harder to lift your arm, reach for objects, or engage in sports. Surgery repairs the torn tendon, restoring full range of motion and muscle strength.

➡️ Key Benefit: Move freely and get back to the activities you enjoy, whether it’s sports, gardening, or carrying groceries.

3. Prevent Long-Term Shoulder Damage

Leaving a torn rotator cuff untreated can cause the tear to worsen over time, leading to arthritis, joint degeneration, and permanent weakness. Early intervention prevents further damage and improves long-term shoulder health.

➡️ Key Benefit: Protect your shoulder for years to come, reducing the risk of future surgeries.

4. Return to Work and Sports Faster

For active individuals and athletes, shoulder function is everything. A repaired rotator cuff allows for a safe and full return to work, sports, and hobbies without fear of re-injury.

➡️ Key Benefit: Whether you’re an athlete, weightlifter, or someone who simply wants to move pain-free, surgery can help you return to full function faster.

Types of Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

At OIH, our orthopaedic specialists tailor the treatment approach based on the severity of your injury. The most common surgical techniques include:

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

This minimally invasive procedure uses a tiny camera and small incisions to reattach torn tendons to the bone. It leads to:
✅ Less pain
✅ Faster recovery
✅ Minimal scarring

Open Rotator Cuff Repair

For larger or more complex tears, an open incision provides direct access to the damaged tendons. This allows for stronger reattachment and long-term stability.

What to Expect: Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovering from rotator cuff repair surgery takes commitment—but with proper rehabilitation, you can expect significant improvements within months.