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Shoulder Rotator Cuff Tears: Modern Repair Options
A rotator cuff tear can be a painful and limiting condition, making everyday activities—like lifting a grocery bag or reaching for a high shelf— challenging. While some people try to manage the discomfort without surgery, leaving a rotator cuff tear untreated often leads to worsening symptoms over time. Understanding the long term effects of neglecting a rotator cuff tear and the available treatment options can help individuals make informed decisions about their shoulder health.
Rotator cuff tears do not typically heal on their own. Instead, they tend to worsen over time, leading to:
- Increased Pain: Many people find their discomfort progressively intensifies, impacting their daily activities and sleep.
- Tear Enlargement: What starts as a small tear can gradually become larger, making future treatment more complex.
- Muscle Degeneration: Over time, the muscles around the tear weaken and develop fatty deposits, reducing strength and function.