Rotator Cuff Repair:
Surgery for Shoulder Tears & Pain

A rotator cuff tear is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and weakness. When non-surgical treatment such as rest, physiotherapy, and injections fail to relieve symptoms, rotator cuff repair surgery may be recommended. This page explains the condition, surgical options, recovery, and what patients can expect.

What Is the Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons and muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) that stabilise the shoulder and help lift and rotate the arm. Tears in these tendons can occur due to injury, overuse, or age-related degeneration.

What Is Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery?

Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure that reattaches the torn tendon back to the bone (humerus). Most modern repairs are performed using arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery, which involves small incisions and a camera. In some cases, a mini-open or open repair may be necessary.

Who Needs Rotator Cuff Surgery?

Surgery is usually recommended if:

  • You have persistent shoulder pain despite non-surgical treatment
  • There is weakness when lifting or rotating your arm
  • You experience night pain that disturbs sleep
  • The tear is large or full-thickness
  • You are younger, active, or rely on shoulder strength for work or sport

Types of Rotator Cuff Repair

  • Arthroscopic repair – Minimally invasive, performed through small incisions using a camera and specialised instruments
  • Mini-open repair – Combines keyhole and a small open incision for larger tears
  • Open repair – Traditional surgery, sometimes used for complex or massive tears

Benefits of Surgery

  • Relief from pain, especially night pain
  • Improved strength and shoulder function
  • Reduced risk of tear progression
  • Return to work, sport, and daily activities

How Is the Procedure Performed?

  1. Small incisions are made around the shoulder
  2. The arthroscope is inserted to visualise the tear
  3. Damaged tissue is trimmed if needed
  4. Sutures and small anchors reattach the tendon securely to bone
  5. The incisions are closed with sutures or dressings

The operation usually takes 60–120 minutes, depending on the size of the tear.

Recovery After Rotator Cuff Repair

Recovery is gradual and requires commitment to physiotherapy. General milestones include:

  • Sling use: 4–6 weeks to protect the repair
  • Early physiotherapy: Passive movement begins within the first week
  • Return to desk work: Around 2 weeks for office-based roles
  • Driving: Usually safe after 6 weeks
  • Strengthening phase: From 8–12 weeks
  • Return to heavy work or sport: 4–6 months

Risks and Complications

Rotator cuff repair is safe and effective, but risks include:

  • Infection
  • Stiffness or frozen shoulder
  • Failure of tendon healing
  • Nerve injury (rare)
  • Persistent pain or weakness

When to See a Specialist

If you have ongoing shoulder pain, weakness, or loss of function that does not improve with rest and physiotherapy, speak to your GP or shoulder surgeon. Early referral improves outcomes, especially for larger tears.

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