Rotator Cuff Repair

What this procedure is

Rotator cuff repair is a surgery used to fix a torn tendon in your shoulder. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that wrap around the top of your arm bone. These tissues help you lift and rotate your arm while keeping the shoulder joint stable.

During the procedure, a surgeon reattaches the torn tendon back to the bone. This is often done using sutures (strong stitches) and anchors (small devices that hold the stitches in the bone). The goal is to allow the tendon to heal back to its natural position.

Your clinician may perform this surgery in different ways. One common method is arthroscopy, where the surgeon uses a tiny camera and small tools through very small incisions. Another method is open repair, which uses a larger incision if the tear is more complex or if other repairs are needed at the same time.

What it treats or fixes

This surgery is primarily used to treat tears in the rotator cuff tendons. These tears can happen suddenly from an injury, like a fall, or they may develop slowly over time due to wear and tear as we age.

The main goals of the repair are to:

• Reduce shoulder pain that may interfere with sleep or daily life.
• Improve the strength of your shoulder and arm.
• Help you regain the ability to perform tasks like reaching overhead or getting dressed.

While many people find relief through physical therapy or injections, surgery may be recommended if the tear is large, if the pain is severe, or if other treatments have not provided enough improvement.

How common it is & where it's done

Rotator cuff repair is a very common orthopedic procedure. Each year, many thousands of people undergo this surgery to improve their shoulder health and return to their normal activities.

In most cases, this is an outpatient procedure. This means you will likely go home the same day of the surgery rather than staying overnight in a hospital. Your care team will monitor you in a recovery room for a few hours after the procedure before you are cleared to go home.

The surgery is typically performed in a hospital or a specialized ambulatory surgery center. Because it is a routine procedure, these facilities are well-equipped to handle the surgery and the initial recovery process.

Recovery: What to Expect

After surgery, your main job is to let the shoulder heal. Your clinician will likely have you wear a sling (a padded strap that holds your arm still) for about 4 to 6 weeks. This protects the repaired tendon while it reattaches to the bone. You will need help with daily tasks like dressing and bathing during this time.

Physical therapy is a key part of getting better. It usually happens in stages:

• Passive motion: A therapist moves your arm for you to keep the joint from getting stiff.
• Active motion: You begin moving the arm on your own without extra weight.
• Strengthening: You perform exercises to build muscle once the tendon has healed enough.

Full recovery is a gradual process that often takes 4 to 6 months, though it may take up to a year to return to heavy lifting or overhead sports.

Risks & Possible Complications

Every surgery has some risks, though they are not common. These may include infection, reactions to anesthesia, or injury to nearby nerves. Some patients may experience stiffness, sometimes called "frozen shoulder," which physical therapy can help manage.

In some cases, the tendon may not heal completely or could tear again, especially if the original tear was very large or the tissue was weak. Your clinician may monitor your progress closely to ensure the repair stays strong and may suggest lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, to help the tissue heal better.

It is important to contact your care team if you notice any of the following:

• A fever or chills.
• Redness, warmth, or drainage around the small incisions.
• Sudden or severe pain that does not improve with rest.

Outcomes & Long-Term Results

The primary goal of rotator cuff repair is to reduce pain and help you regain the use of your arm. Most people find that their shoulder feels much better and they can return to their daily routines after they finish their rehabilitation program. Success rates for pain relief are generally very high.

Long-term success often depends on the size of the initial tear and how well you follow your physical therapy plan. While the shoulder may not feel exactly like it did before the injury, most patients are very satisfied with their ability to reach, lift, and sleep without the discomfort they had before surgery.

Emotional Support & Reassurance

It is natural to feel a bit impatient during the recovery weeks. Because you have to move slowly at first, you might feel frustrated by the temporary loss of independence. Remember that healing takes time, and every small improvement—like being able to reach a shelf or get dressed more easily—is a victory.

Your surgical team and physical therapists are your partners in this journey. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to them about your concerns. Staying consistent with your exercises and keeping a positive outlook can make a big difference in how you feel during your recovery. Most people find that the temporary inconvenience of surgery is well worth the long-term relief.

Why doctors recommend it

Doctors often suggest surgery if your shoulder pain does not get better with rest, exercise, or medicine. It is a common choice for people who use their arms for overhead work or sports. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keep the arm bone in the shoulder socket. When these are torn, it can cause lasting discomfort and limit your ability to move.

Your clinician may recommend repair if:

• The tear was caused by a recent, sudden injury.
• The tear is large (more than 3 centimeters).
• You have significant weakness that makes it hard to lift your arm or perform daily tasks.
• Non-surgical treatments have not provided enough relief after several months of effort.

Urgent vs planned treatment

Most rotator cuff repairs are planned rather than urgent. Your care team may suggest trying physical therapy or injections for 6 to 12 months first. If the pain and weakness continue despite these efforts, a planned surgery is often the next step to help you regain function.

In some cases, surgery may be recommended sooner. This is often the case for "acute" tears, which happen suddenly due to a specific accident, like a fall. Repairing a fresh tear quickly can sometimes help prevent the muscle from getting smaller or weaker over time, which can happen if a tear is left alone for too long.

Goals of treatment

The primary goal of this surgery is to reduce or eliminate pain. Many patients find that after healing, they can sleep more comfortably and perform daily activities without the sharp aches caused by a tear.

Other goals include:

• Restoring strength: Reattaching the tendon to the bone helps the shoulder muscles work together again so you can lift and carry objects more easily.
• Improving motion: Surgery aims to help you regain your "range of motion," which is how far and easily you can move your arm in different directions.
• Better quality of life: By fixing the tear, the goal is to help you return to the hobbies, sports, or work duties that were limited by your injury.

Who may benefit

Rotator cuff repair is a surgery used to reattach a torn tendon to the bone in your shoulder. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keep your shoulder joint stable and help you lift or rotate your arm. Your clinician may suggest this surgery if you have a tear that causes significant pain or makes it difficult to perform daily activities.

Common reasons to consider surgery include:

• Persistent symptoms: Pain or weakness that has lasted for 6 to 12 months and has not improved with rest or physical therapy.
• Large tears: A tear that is larger than 3 centimeters (about 1 inch) in size.
• Recent injury: A sudden, sharp tear caused by a specific accident, such as a fall.
• Loss of function: Significant weakness that prevents you from lifting your arm or performing overhead work.

When it may not be the right option

Surgery is often not the first treatment recommended. Many people find that their shoulder improves with non-surgical options like physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications. If your pain is manageable and you can still move your arm well, your care team may suggest continuing with these treatments instead of surgery.

In some cases, surgery may be less likely to succeed. For example, if a tear is very old, the muscle may have shortened or changed in a way that makes it hard to reattach. Your clinician will also consider your overall health. Certain factors, such as smoking or having a weakened immune system, can make it harder for the tendon to heal properly after the procedure.

Questions to ask your care team

Deciding on surgery is a personal choice made with your medical team. It is helpful to understand the goals of the procedure and what the recovery process looks like. You may want to ask your surgeon the following questions:

• Based on my imaging tests, how large is the tear and what is the quality of the tissue?
• What are the chances that my shoulder strength and range of motion will return to normal?
• What are the specific risks of surgery for someone with my health history?
• How long will I need to wear a sling, and when can I start physical therapy?
• What activities should I avoid while I am healing?

In the procedure room

When you enter the procedure room, the surgical team will help you get into a comfortable position. This is often a "beach chair" position, where you are sitting up slightly, or you may lie on your side. These positions help the surgeon reach your shoulder joint easily and safely.

The team will clean the skin around your shoulder with a special soap to prevent infection. They will also place sterile drapes around the area to keep the surgical site clean. You will see various monitors and equipment used to track your health throughout the process.

High-level steps

The surgeon typically begins by making small incisions (cuts) around your shoulder. In many cases, they use an arthroscope, which is a tiny camera that allows them to see the inside of your joint on a video screen. This helps them look for any other issues in the shoulder while they work.

The main steps of the repair usually include:

• Preparing the bone: The surgeon cleans the area on the humerus (upper arm bone) where the tendon will be reattached.
• Placing anchors: Small devices called suture anchors are placed into the bone. These anchors have strong threads attached to them.
• Stitching the tendon: The surgeon uses these threads to sew the torn rotator cuff tendon back onto the bone.
• Removing bone spurs: If there are rough edges on the bone that might rub against the tendon, the surgeon may smooth them down to prevent future wear.

Anesthesia and pain control

To ensure you are comfortable, your care team will use anesthesia. Most patients receive general anesthesia, which means you will be in a deep sleep during the procedure. Your clinician may also suggest a regional nerve block. This is an injection of numbing medicine near the nerves that lead to your shoulder.

A nerve block can be very helpful because it provides long-lasting pain relief. It often makes your arm feel heavy or numb for several hours after you wake up, which helps you stay comfortable as the initial surgical soreness begins.

Monitoring and safety steps

Your safety is the top priority during the repair. A provider will stay with you to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels the entire time. This constant check ensures that your body is responding well to the anesthesia.

The surgical team also follows strict safety protocols, such as a "time-out" before the first incision. During this pause, the team confirms your identity and the specific details of the surgery. These steps are designed to ensure the procedure goes exactly as planned.

Immediately after the procedure

After the surgery is finished, you will be moved to a recovery room. Nurses will check on you frequently as you wake up from the anesthesia. You will likely have a bandage over your shoulder and your arm will be placed in a sling or an immobilizer. This device keeps your shoulder still so the repair can begin to heal.

It is normal to feel some grogginess or a bit of pressure in the shoulder area. If you had a nerve block, your arm might feel like it is "asleep" or very heavy. Your care team will provide medicine to help manage any discomfort and will explain how to care for your incisions at home.

Typical procedure length

A rotator cuff repair usually takes about one to two hours to complete. The exact time can vary depending on the size of the tear and whether the surgeon finds other issues to address inside the joint. Your surgical team will give your family or friends an update once the procedure is finished.

Common approaches (open vs minimally invasive)

Surgeons use different techniques to reach and repair the damaged tendon. The best option often depends on the size of the tear, your anatomy, and the quality of the tendon tissue.

• Arthroscopic repair: This is a minimally invasive approach. The surgeon makes very small incisions and inserts a tiny camera (arthroscope) and thin instruments. This allows them to see inside the joint and fix the tear without a large cut. This method is common and may result in less stiffness after surgery.
• Open repair: In this traditional approach, the surgeon makes a larger incision over the shoulder. This allows them to see the muscle and tendon directly. It is often used for large or complex tears.
• Mini-open repair: This technique combines both methods. The surgeon may use an arthroscope to evaluate the damage and remove loose tissue, then make a smaller incision to repair the tendon directly.

Partial vs total

The type of procedure performed often depends on whether the rotator cuff tear is partial or total (full-thickness).

For partial tears, the tendon is damaged but not completely severed from the bone. In these cases, a surgeon may perform a procedure called debridement. This involves trimming or smoothing the frayed edges of the tendon rather than stitching it back together. This helps prevent the tear from getting worse.

For total or full-thickness tears, the tendon has pulled away from the bone. The goal is to reattach the tendon using strong sutures (stitches) and anchors. If the tear is extremely large and the tendon cannot be repaired, your doctor might suggest alternative options, such as a tendon transfer or a shoulder replacement, though these are for more severe cases.

Revision or repeat procedures

Sometimes, a repaired rotator cuff does not heal completely, or the tendon may tear again over time. If you experience pain or weakness after recovering from the first surgery, your clinician may evaluate you for a failed repair.

Treatment for a failed repair depends on why the first surgery did not hold, the quality of your remaining tendon, and your age. Options may include:

• Debridement: Cleaning out scar tissue or loose fragments to relieve pain.
• Revision repair: Attempting to stitch the tendon again, often using different techniques or materials to strengthen the repair.
• Tendon transfer: Using a nearby healthy tendon to replace the function of the damaged rotator cuff.
• Reverse total shoulder replacement: In cases where the rotator cuff cannot be fixed, surgeons may replace the shoulder joint with artificial parts designed to work without the rotator cuff tendon.

Tests and imaging that may be done

To plan your surgery, your healthcare provider needs a clear picture of your shoulder. They may order imaging tests to check the condition of your bones, tendons, and muscles.

• X-rays: These create images of the bone. They help your doctor see bone spurs or signs of arthritis.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This test uses radio waves and strong magnets to create detailed pictures of soft tissues, showing the size and location of the tendon tear.
• Ultrasound: This uses sound waves to look at your muscles and tendons. It allows the doctor to see the soft tissues while you move your shoulder.

You may also need general health checks, such as blood tests or a heart check (electrocardiogram), to make sure you are healthy enough for anesthesia.

Medication adjustments

It is important to tell your care team about every medicine you take. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter pain relievers, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Your surgeon or anesthesiologist will guide you on what to take. Common instructions may include:

• Blood thinners: You may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or prescription blood thinners for a specific time before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Daily medications: You might be told to take essential daily medicines with a small sip of water on the morning of surgery.

Only stop or change your medicines if your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.

Day-before and day-of instructions

Your surgical team will give you a checklist to follow before you arrive at the hospital or surgery center. Following these steps helps ensure your safety during the procedure.

• Fasting: You will likely be instructed not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery.
• Arrange a ride: Because of the anesthesia, you will not be allowed to drive yourself home. Ask a friend or family member to pick you up.
• Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothes. A button-down shirt is often recommended because it is easier to put on over a sling or bandage than a shirt that goes over your head.
• Hygiene: You may be asked to shower with a special antibacterial soap the night before or the morning of your procedure to lower the risk of infection.

General surgical risks

Rotator cuff repair is a common procedure that is generally considered safe. However, like any surgery, it carries some standard risks. Your care team will take specific steps to lower the chance of these problems occurring.

General risks associated with surgery and anesthesia include:

• Infection: Bacteria may enter the incision site, though sterile techniques make this less likely.
• Bleeding: Some blood loss is normal, but excessive bleeding is rare.
• Blood clots: Clots can form in the veins after surgery, though movement and medication help prevent them.
• Reaction to anesthesia: Some patients may have nausea or other reactions to the medication used to put them to sleep.

Procedure-specific complications

In addition to general surgical risks, there are complications specific to shoulder surgery. The most common concern is that the tendon may not heal completely or could tear again (re-tear). This can happen if the tissue is poor quality or if the shoulder is used too actively before it has healed.

Other possible complications include:

• Stiffness: The shoulder may become tight or difficult to move, sometimes called "frozen shoulder."
• Nerve injury: Nerves surrounding the shoulder can be stretched or injured during the operation, potentially causing numbness or weakness. This is generally temporary but can be permanent in rare cases.
• Deltoid detachment: In open surgeries, the large shoulder muscle (deltoid) is detached and stitched back. Very rarely, it may detach during recovery.

How complications are treated

If complications arise, your clinician has several ways to manage them. Infections are typically treated with antibiotics and wound care. If you experience significant stiffness, your doctor may prescribe additional physical therapy or, in some cases, a procedure to manipulate the shoulder and loosen the tissue.

If the tendon does not heal or tears again, treatment depends on your symptoms. If you do not have pain, your clinician may recommend managing the shoulder with physical therapy alone. If pain or weakness persists, a second surgery (revision) might be discussed. Options for revision may include cleaning out the joint (debridement), transferring a healthy tendon from another area, or a reverse shoulder replacement.

Pain control medicines

Your clinician may suggest several types of medicine to help you stay comfortable after surgery. These often include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which help reduce both pain and swelling (inflammation). Acetaminophen is also commonly used to manage discomfort. Your clinician will tailor this plan to your specific health history.

For stronger pain immediately after the procedure, your doctor might prescribe a short course of opioid pain medicine. Because these can be habit-forming, they are typically used for only a few days. It is important to discuss any history of stomach issues or kidney problems with your team, as some pain medicines can affect these organs. Always share your full list of current medications to avoid any unsafe interactions.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are medicines used to prevent or treat infections caused by bacteria. To keep the surgical site safe, your care team will usually give you a dose of antibiotics through an IV (a thin tube in your vein) shortly before the repair begins. This is a standard step to lower the risk of infection during the healing process.

In some cases, your clinician may also prescribe a short course of antibiotic pills for you to take at home. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic, such as a skin rash or hives, so they can choose the safest medicine for you.

Blood thinners and clot prevention

Because you will be moving your arm and body less than usual while you recover, there is a small risk of developing blood clots. To help keep your blood flowing well, your clinician may recommend blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants. These medicines help prevent clots from forming in your veins.

Your clinician may suggest different options based on your needs, such as:

• Aspirin: A common medicine often used in low doses to help prevent clots.
• Prescription thinners: Specific medicines designed to reduce clotting risk for those with higher risk factors.
• Movement: Simple exercises for your hand, wrist, and elbow to keep blood circulating.

If you have a history of bleeding problems or easy bruising, be sure to share that with your care team so they can manage your recovery safely.

Emergency warning signs

While complications are not common, it is important to act quickly if you suspect a severe reaction to surgery or anesthesia. Seek immediate medical care if you experience sudden or severe symptoms that feel life-threatening.

Although rare, deep infections or reactions to anesthesia can occur. Look out for signs such as high fever, shaking chills, or trouble breathing. If you feel very ill or notice these symptoms, do not wait to get help.

Call your surgeon or clinic if…

Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on when to contact them. Generally, you should call your surgeon’s office if you notice signs that your recovery is not going as planned. According to clinical guidelines, you should report the following symptoms:

• Signs of infection: Fever, chills, or increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the incision.
• Drainage issues: Bleeding or fluid leaking from the incision site.
• Pain changes: Pain that gets worse or is not relieved by your prescribed medication.
• Nerve symptoms: Numbness or tingling in your arm or hand.

Expected vs concerning symptoms

Recovering from rotator cuff repair takes time, and it can be hard to tell the difference between normal recovery and a problem. Most people have some pain and stiffness, but certain changes may signal a complication.

Pain levels: It is normal to feel pain after surgery, which usually improves with rest and medication. However, pain that suddenly increases or becomes unmanageable may be a sign of a problem, such as an infection or an issue with the repair.

Stiffness and movement: Some stiffness is expected, and you will likely need physical therapy to regain motion. However, if your shoulder becomes completely stiff (frozen shoulder) or if you feel a sudden weakness suggesting the tendon has not healed properly, let your clinician know.

Non-surgical treatments

Many people find relief from shoulder pain without needing surgery. Your clinician may suggest starting with conservative care to reduce swelling and improve how your shoulder moves. These treatments focus on managing symptoms and keeping the joint functional.

• Physical therapy: This is often the first step. It involves specific exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your shoulder joint. Strengthening these muscles can help take the pressure off the injured tendon.
• Activity modification: Your clinician may suggest avoiding overhead reaching or lifting heavy objects to give the tendons time to rest.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, may help reduce pain and swelling.
• Steroid injections: If pain interferes with your sleep or daily life, a corticosteroid injection into the shoulder joint may be used to provide temporary relief from inflammation.

Watchful waiting

In some cases, your clinician may recommend "watchful waiting." This means monitoring your shoulder over time rather than starting an intensive treatment or surgery right away. This is often an option if your tear is small and does not cause significant pain or limit your daily activities.

During this period, you might continue light exercises to keep the joint from becoming stiff. It is important to stay in touch with your healthcare team, as they will want to check if the tear is getting larger or if your symptoms are changing. For many people with lower activity levels, this approach can be an effective way to manage the condition without more invasive steps.

When surgery becomes the best option

While many people improve with rest and therapy, surgery may be the best choice if your symptoms do not get better after several months of non-surgical care. Your clinician may suggest a repair if you have a large tear or if the shoulder weakness makes it hard to perform your job or daily tasks.

Other factors that might lead to a surgical recommendation include:

• Acute injury: If the tear was caused by a sudden trauma, such as a fall, a prompt repair is often recommended.
• Persistent pain: If pain continues even while you are resting or if it keeps you awake at night despite other treatments.
• Loss of function: If you cannot lift your arm to perform basic movements or if the weakness is getting worse.

The main goal of moving to surgery is to reattach the tendon to the bone. This helps restore strength and prevents the tear from getting larger or the muscle from shrinking over time.

Hospital services that commonly perform this surgery

Rotator cuff repairs are typically performed in Orthopedic Surgery departments. These departments specialize in treating conditions that affect the bones, joints, and muscles. Depending on your needs, your clinician may recommend a large hospital or a specialized Outpatient Surgery Center, where you can often go home the same day as your procedure.

Many facilities also have Sports Medicine clinics. These teams focus on helping people return to their regular activities and sports. Additionally, Radiology departments are involved before surgery to provide imaging, such as MRIs, to help the surgical team plan the repair.

Patient resources and support services

Support for a rotator cuff repair often starts before the surgery and continues long after. Most hospitals provide Physical Therapy services, which are essential for regaining strength and movement in the shoulder. A physical therapist will guide you through specific exercises tailored to your stage of healing.

Other helpful resources may include:

• Occupational Therapy: These specialists help you learn how to manage daily tasks, like bathing or dressing, while your arm is healing in a sling.
• Pain Management Services: These teams help coordinate your comfort levels immediately after surgery.
• Patient Education Programs: Many centers offer classes or guides to help you and your caregivers prepare your home for recovery.

Questions for choosing where to have surgery

When deciding where to have your procedure, it can be helpful to gather information about the facility's experience and the support they offer. You might consider asking the following questions:

• How many rotator cuff repairs are performed at this facility each year?
• Is physical therapy available at the same location for my follow-up appointments?
• Does the facility offer specialized care for complex or repeat repairs if they are needed?
• What resources are available if I have questions about my recovery after I go home?
• Will the surgery be performed as an outpatient procedure, or is an overnight stay common?

Conditions commonly treated by this procedure

Rotator cuff repair is most often used to treat rotator cuff tears. These occur when the tendons that connect your muscles to your shoulder bone are damaged. Your clinician may suggest surgery if you have a complete tear or a partial tear that has not improved with other treatments like physical therapy or rest.

Common conditions that may lead to this procedure include:

• Acute injuries: Sudden damage caused by a fall or lifting something heavy.
• Degenerative tears: Wear and tear that happens slowly over time, often due to repetitive stress or aging.
• Failed previous repairs: In some cases, a previous surgery may need to be repeated if the tendon does not heal correctly or tears again.

Your healthcare provider might also consider this repair if you have chronic shoulder pain that makes it hard to perform daily activities or sleep comfortably.

Related symptoms people search for

People who need a rotator cuff repair often experience a variety of shoulder issues. These symptoms can vary depending on the size of the injury and how long it has been present. It is important to have these symptoms evaluated by a clinician to determine the cause.

Commonly reported symptoms may include:

• A dull ache deep within the shoulder joint.
• Weakness in the arm, especially when trying to lift or rotate it.
• Difficulty reaching behind your back or overhead to brush your hair.
• Pain that worsens at night or makes it hard to sleep on the affected side.

You might also notice a clicking or popping sensation when moving your arm in certain directions. While these signs can be associated with a rotator cuff injury, your clinician will use physical exams or imaging to confirm the diagnosis.

Evidence overview

Rotator cuff repair is a well-established procedure used to fix torn tendons in the shoulder. Medical research indicates that for many patients, this surgery is effective at reducing pain and improving shoulder strength and function. It is typically considered when non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, rest, or medications, have not provided enough relief.

Surgeons may use different techniques depending on the size and location of the tear. These range from traditional open surgery to minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, which uses small cameras and instruments. Evidence suggests that the vast majority of these repairs heal successfully, helping patients return to their daily activities.

Safety notes and individualized care

While rotator cuff repair is generally safe, all surgeries carry some risks. Your care team will discuss these with you to help you make an informed decision. Potential complications are relatively rare but can include infection, bleeding, or nerve injury. Some patients may also experience stiffness in the shoulder joint during recovery.

The success of the surgery often depends on individual health factors. Your clinician will evaluate specific details that might affect how well your tendon heals, such as:

• Tear size and quality: Large or long-standing tears may be more difficult to repair than smaller, newer ones.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking or using nicotine products can slow down healing and increase the risk of the tendon tearing again.
• Age and tissue health: As we age, tendon tissue may become thinner, which can influence the surgical approach and recovery time.

Recovery requires patience and commitment to rehabilitation. Following your clinician’s instructions regarding rest and physical therapy is essential to protect the repair and restore movement.

Sources used

The content provided here is based on medical information and patient education materials from reputable academic medical centers and health organizations, including the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine.