Rotator Cuff Repair
The shoulder is one of the most flexible joints in the body, allowing you to reach overhead, lift, and rotate your arm in many directions. Much of this motion comes from the rotator cuff, a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These tendons keep the ball of the upper arm bone securely within the shallow socket of the shoulder. When one or more of these tendons is torn, it can cause significant pain, weakness, and limited movement. A rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure designed to fix these tears and restore shoulder strength and function.
A rotator cuff repair is a surgery that reconnects a torn tendon back to the head of the humerus (upper arm bone). The procedure can be performed through different approaches. In many cases, our surgeons use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, where small incisions and a camera are used to access and repair the tendon. In other cases, an open or mini-open technique may be necessary, depending on the size and location of the tear. Surgical anchors are often placed in the bone to secure the tendon back in position, allowing it to heal properly over time.
The goal of rotator cuff repair is not only to reduce pain but also to restore shoulder strength, stability, and function. By reattaching the tendon, patients have a better chance of regaining full range of motion and returning to daily activities, work, and even sports.
Rotator cuff repairs are used to treat significant tears of the rotator cuff tendons. These tears can happen in several ways:
- Acute injuries: A fall, lifting something heavy, or a sudden jerking motion can cause the tendon to tear suddenly.
- Degenerative changes: Over time, the tendons can weaken due to wear-and-tear, leading to partial or complete tears. This is more common in individuals over the age of 40.
- Repetitive use: Athletes and workers who perform overhead motions repeatedly, such as painters, carpenters, swimmers, or baseball players, are at higher risk.
Symptoms include:
- persistent shoulder pain that does not improve with rest or non-surgical care
- weakness when lifting or rotating the arm, difficulty sleeping on the affected side, and
- loss of normal arm function
- Small tears may sometimes be managed without surgery, but larger or persistent tears often require a surgical solution.
Recovery from rotator cuff repair takes time and patience because tendons heal slowly. The process can be divided into stages:
Immediately after surgery:
The shoulder is typically placed in a sling to keep the arm stable and protect the repaired tendon. Pain and swelling are managed with medications and ice. It is normal to feel limited movement during this time, as rest is critical for early healing.
Early healing phase (first 4–6 weeks):
During this period, the tendon begins to reattach to the bone. Patients are usually restricted from moving their arm on their own. Gentle passive range-of-motion exercises, guided by a physical therapist, may be started to prevent stiffness without stressing the repair.
Rehabilitation phase (6–12 weeks):
As healing progresses, patients gradually begin to use their shoulder more actively. Physical therapy focuses on improving flexibility, range of motion, and gentle strengthening exercises. The sling is usually discontinued around this stage, depending on the surgeon’s recommendations.
Strengthening and return to activity (3–6 months):
Rehabilitation shifts toward rebuilding strength in the shoulder muscles and regaining endurance. Patients continue therapy exercises and begin to use the arm in more daily tasks. Lifting restrictions are slowly lifted.
Full recovery (6–12 months):
Complete healing and return to high-level activities, such as heavy lifting, sports, or overhead work, can take several months. Many patients notice continued improvements in strength and function for up to a year after surgery.
Recovery timelines can vary depending on the size of the tear, the patient’s age, overall health, and commitment to rehabilitation. Following the surgeon’s and therapist’s instructions closely is the most important factor for a successful outcome.
Why choose Ortho Illinois?
At Ortho Illinois, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears. With extensive experience in minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques as well as advanced open repair methods, our team provides personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs and lifestyle. We understand how much shoulder pain and dysfunction can negatively impact daily life, and we are dedicated to helping patients return to their normal routines with less pain and greater strength.
Convenience is another key part of our commitment to patient care. Ortho Illinois proudly serves the region with five clinic locations: two in Rockford and additional offices in Algonquin, Elgin, and McHenry, Illinois. This makes expert orthopedic care accessible for patients across northern Illinois.
If shoulder pain, weakness, or limited motion is keeping you from living life to the fullest, you do not have to endure it any longer. At Ortho Illinois, our specialists are here to provide advanced diagnosis, treatment, and surgical expertise in rotator cuff repair. With a dedicated rehabilitation program and a team focused on your recovery, we will guide you every step of the way. Contact Ortho Illinois today to schedule a consultation at one of our five convenient locations in Rockford, Algonquin, Elgin, or McHenry, and take the first step toward restoring your shoulder health and returning to the activities you enjoy.
