Rotator Cuff Surgery

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing the arm to lift, rotate and move overhead. These muscles include the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis, which connect the shoulder blade (scapula) to the upper arm bone (humerus). 

Rotator cuff injuries can develop gradually from repetitive overhead motion, sports activities or age-related wear. They can also occur suddenly due to trauma, such as a fall or lifting a heavy object. When one or more tendons tear, shoulder pain, weakness and limited range of motion often follow. 

Many rotator cuff injuries, including partial tears and inflammation, can be treated successfully without surgery. At Novant Health, we emphasize conservative care whenever possible to promote healing and reduce risk. 

Your treatment plan may include:

• Activity modification and rest to reduce strain on the shoulder
• Ice and anti-inflammatory medications to help control pain and swelling
• Physical therapy that is focused on improving flexibility, strengthening surrounding muscles and restoring shoulder mechanics
• Corticosteroid injections, when appropriate, to relieve inflammation and discomfort 

Our specialists monitor your progress closely and adjust your plan to support long-term shoulder health. 

Surgery may be recommended if non-surgical treatments do not provide relief, if you have significant weakness or pain or if you wish to return to higher-level physical activity. Large or complete tears, especially those caused by injury, may also benefit from surgical repair earlier in the treatment and recovery process. 

Novant Health orthopedic surgeons specialize in advanced rotator cuff repair techniques designed to restore function while minimizing recovery time. 

Most rotator cuff repairs are performed arthroscopically using small incisions and specialized instruments. A tiny camera allows your surgeon to clearly view the shoulder joint and repair damaged tendons with precision. In some cases, larger or more complex tears may require an open or mini-open approach. 

During the procedure, the torn tendon is carefully reattached to the bone using sutures or small anchors. Regional or general anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable, and most procedures are done on an outpatient basis. 

Recovery follows a structured plan designed to protect the healing tissues while gradually restoring movement and strength.

• Early phase (weeks 1–6): Your arm will be supported in a sling, with limited movement to allow healing. Gentle range-of-motion exercises may begin as directed.
• Intermediate phase (weeks 6–12): Physical therapy progresses to strengthening and improving shoulder control.
• Return to activity: Most patients resume normal daily activities within several months, with full recovery and return to sports often taking four to six months, depending on the injury and goals. 

Your care team will provide ongoing guidance and support throughout each phase of recovery. 

As with any surgery, rotator cuff repair carries potential risks, including infection, stiffness, nerve injury or re-tearing of the tendon. Your surgeon will review these risks with you and answer any questions before treatment.