Rotator cuff is one of the most important muscle group and tendon in the body that holds the arms and the shoulder together. Rotator cuff may get torn due to overuse, accident, or excessive stress on it.

Not all rotator cuff tears require surgery. Most partial rotator cuff tear are cured by non-surgical treatments. Rotator cuff tear surgery is performed when all non-surgical methods of treatments do not work.

There are three methods of rotator cuff tear surgery: open repair, mini-open, and arthroscopic surgery. The open repair surgery is the old method of surgery.

Mini-open and arthroscopic surgery use a camera to view the torn part of the tendon on a television monitor and carry out the surgery.

The open repair method is painful as it involves making a big incision of about 6-10 centimeters long. In the mini-open repair a three-four centimeter long incision is made.

Arthroscopic surgery requires several small incisions of one centimeter length to be made to insert the camera and view the torn tendon. The surgery methods involving camera are less invasive and cause less pain.

However, open repair is very effective in treating large tears. Arthroscopic surgery is good for small tears. Skilled surgeons are now able to repair even big tears successfully.

Irrespective of the surgery method, physical therapy is a must after surgery. The doctor will advise complete rest and restrict the movement of the affected arm and shoulder completely.

Physical therapy starts after a few weeks when the patient is comfortable about making light arm movements. Gradually the intensity of the sessions is increased and comfort level of the patient is crucial in determining whether or not to move to the next level of physical therapy.

Rehabilitation takes nearly six months depending on the severity of the tear and the health condition of the patient. Younger and fit patients recover faster.