Rotator Cuff Repair
Charlotte, NC
Arthroscopic and open rotator cuff repair for partial and full-thickness tears — with rehabilitation tailored to your activity level and goals.
What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons — the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor — that surround the shoulder joint. Together they stabilize the ball of the upper arm within the shoulder socket and power virtually every shoulder movement.
Rotator cuff tears are extremely common, affecting millions of Americans each year. They range from small partial tears to complete full-thickness ruptures and can occur from acute injury (a fall, lifting) or gradually from repetitive overhead activity and age-related degeneration.
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear
- Pain with overhead activity, reaching behind the back, or lifting
- Weakness in the shoulder — difficulty raising the arm
- Night pain, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder
- A cracking or popping sensation with shoulder movement
- Pain that radiates down the upper arm toward the elbow
Surgical Approach
Dr. Vasileff performs most rotator cuff repairs arthroscopically — using small incisions and a camera. Suture anchors are placed in the bone, and the torn tendon is stitched back to its original footprint. This technique results in excellent healing rates with less post-operative pain and faster recovery than open surgery.
For very large or retracted tears, a mini-open or open approach may be required to achieve full repair. Dr. Vasileff will discuss the appropriate technique for your specific tear during your consultation.
Recovery Timeline
Arm in a sling to protect the repair. Gentle pendulum exercises only. Pain management.
Begin passive range-of-motion exercises with therapist. Sling use decreasing.
Active-assisted and active range-of-motion exercises. Begin gentle strengthening.
Progressive resistance training. Functional activities resume. Sport-specific training.
Return to overhead sport and heavy labor. Full recovery typically 6–12 months depending on tear size.
Do All Rotator Cuff Tears Need Surgery?
No. Many rotator cuff tears — particularly small partial tears and degenerative tears in older, less-active patients — respond well to physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and cortisone injections. Dr. Vasileff will always recommend conservative treatment first when clinically appropriate.
Surgery is generally recommended for full-thickness tears in active patients, acute tears following trauma, or partial tears that have failed to respond to at least 3–6 months of conservative treatment.
Shoulder pain keeping you sidelined?
Dr. Vasileff evaluates rotator cuff injuries with MRI-confirmed diagnosis and an honest, individualized treatment plan.