ORTHOPAEDIC · CONDITION GUIDE
Rotator Cuff Tear
A partial or complete tear of the tendons forming the rotator cuff — the group of muscles that stabilise and move the shoulder — causing pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting the arm.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling a wide range of arm movements. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons are partially or completely torn away from the bone. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, particularly in adults over 40, athletes, and individuals performing repetitive overhead activities. Tears can result from a sudden injury — such as falling on an outstretched arm — or develop gradually through years of wear and degeneration. Left untreated, a significant tear can lead to progressive weakness and eventually make the shoulder nearly non-functional. Dr. Sai Kishan Sirasala offers expert rotator cuff repair at Lux Hospitals using the latest arthroscopic techniques.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Age-related degeneration of the rotator cuff tendons over time
- Acute trauma such as a fall on an outstretched arm or lifting a heavy object
- Repetitive overhead activities in sport or occupation causing gradual wear
- Bone spurs beneath the shoulder rubbing and fraying the tendons
- Poor blood supply to the tendons making them more prone to tearing
- Previous shoulder injuries or untreated partial tears that worsen over time
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Partial thickness or full thickness; small, medium, large, or massive
Arthroscopic repair, open repair, or superior capsular reconstruction
Arthroscopic keyhole repair is the preferred approach for most tears
Sling for 4–6 weeks; full recovery typically in 4–6 months
Light daily activities in 6–8 weeks; overhead sport in 4–6 months
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Dr. Sai Kishan completed his Fellowship in Shoulder Surgery at the Royal Blackburn Hospital, NHS, UK, where he trained in advanced arthroscopic rotator cuff repair techniques. He applies the latest anchor and suture methods to achieve strong, durable repairs and optimal functional recovery.
Dr. Sai Kishan trained at the Royal Blackburn Hospital, NHS UK, applying the latest anchor and suture techniques for strong, durable rotator cuff repairs and optimal functional recovery.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Clinical examination and MRI imaging are used to characterise the tear size, thickness, and tissue quality, and to assess any concurrent shoulder pathology.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Treatment is planned based on tear size, chronicity, and patient goals — ranging from physiotherapy and injections for partial tears to surgery for full-thickness tears.
- 3
Surgical Procedure
Arthroscopic surgery is used to reattach the torn tendon to the bone using suture anchors. Open or mini-open repair is performed for larger, more complex tears.
- 4
Rehabilitation & Recovery
A sling is worn for 4–6 weeks after surgery, followed by a progressive physiotherapy programme. Full strength and function are typically restored within 4–6 months.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Rotator Cuff Repair
The torn tendons in your shoulder are reattached to the bone using anchors and sutures — restoring shoulder strength and allowing you to lift, reach, and move your arm without pain.
Mini-Open / Open Rotator Cuff Repair
For larger or more complex tendon tears, the surgeon repairs the damage through a small or full incision — directly stitching the torn tendon back to the bone for a durable repair.
Superior Capsular Reconstruction
When the rotator cuff tear is too large to repair, a graft is used to reconstruct the roof of the shoulder joint, stabilising the shoulder and significantly reducing pain.
Subacromial Decompression / Acromioplasty
Bone spurs and inflamed tissue pressing on your rotator cuff tendons are removed, creating more space for the tendons to move freely and relieving impingement pain.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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