When someone hears the words “rotator cuff tear,” the first thought is often surgery. But many people with rotator cuff tears (even full-thickness ones) get better without ever going under the knife. At Cohen Health & Performance, we see this every day, and the latest research continues to back it up.
What the Research Says About Rotator Cuff Tears
At the Mid-Atlantic Shoulder and Elbow Symposium, Dr. John Kuhn of Vanderbilt University presented a study following nearly 500 patients with rotator cuff tears. His team found that 75% of patients improved with physical therapy alone—even when the tears were large or full-thickness, as long as they were atraumatic (developed over time, not from a sudden injury).
Even more impressive? These results held up over 10 years. Many patients regained shoulder function, reduced their pain, and returned to the activities they enjoyed, without surgery.
Other studies show that even when rotator cuff repairs are performed, the repaired tissue often re-tears. Surprisingly, many patients still feel better functionally after rehab. This suggests that the real difference-maker may be the physical therapy and rehabilitation process, not just the surgery itself.
Why Rotator Cuff Physical Therapy Works
So how does physical therapy help when the rotator cuff itself is damaged? At CHP, our shoulder physical therapy programs focus on much more than just the torn tendon. We work to strengthen and coordinate the entire shoulder complex, including:
- Rotator cuff strengthening: Targeted exercises to build resilience in the cuff itself.
- Scapular control: Training the muscles around the shoulder blade to support the shoulder joint effectively.
- Trunk and core integration: Teaching your body how to move as a unit so your shoulder isn’t overloaded during sports or daily activities.
By improving strength, mechanics, and control, we help the shoulder function more efficiently, reducing pain and restoring performance, even in the presence of a tear.
When Surgery Still Makes Sense
Of course, surgery isn’t off the table for everyone. In cases of traumatic injury (like falling directly on the arm), or when physical therapy fails to provide relief, surgical repair may be the right option. But in many cases, trying shoulder physical therapy first is the safer, more effective, and less invasive choice.
Should You Try Physical Therapy Before Surgery?
If you have shoulder pain or a diagnosed rotator cuff tear, you don’t have to rush into surgery. The best next step is often a structured program of shoulder physical therapy.
The worst-case scenario? It doesn’t solve the issue, and surgery becomes necessary.
The best-case scenario? You avoid surgery altogether and get back to the activities you love—stronger than before.
If you are ready to take the next step, contact us and schedule your evaluation to solve your shoulder pain and return to the activities that you love.
