Reset-Wellness

Most rotator cuff tears do NOT require surgery, and many people can manage symptoms through conservative treatment.

Common non-surgical approaches include:

• Physical Therapy
  • Goal: To improve strength, flexibility, and function of the shoulder.
  • Treatment: Exercises that target the rotator cuff muscles and surrounding shoulder muscles to stabilize the joint and reduce strain on the injured tendon
  • Benefits: Strengthening muscles helps to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent further damage.
• Rest and Activity Modification
  • Goal: To allow the injured area time to heal by avoiding movements that exacerbate the tear (like overhead activities or lifting heavy objects).
  • Treatment: Resting the shoulder while avoiding high-stress activities, and modifying movements to protect the injured area.
  • Benefits: Reduces inflammation and prevents worsening of the tear.
• Ice and Heat Therapy
  • Goal: To manage pain and swelling.
  • Treatment: Ice can be applied to reduce inflammation, especially within the first 48 hours after the injury. Heat can be used to relax tight muscles after the acute phase has passed.
  • Benefits: Ice helps manage pain and swelling; heat promotes blood flow and relaxation of the muscles.
• Medications
  • Goal: To control pain and inflammation.
  • Treatment: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can be used short-term to relieve pain and swelling.
  • Benefits: Provides pain relief, which can help facilitate movement and allow for more effective participation in physical therapy.
• Corticosteroid Injections
  • Goal: To reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
  • Treatment: A healthcare provider may inject corticosteroids into the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
  • Benefits: Can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation, allowing for improved participation in rehab.