Expert Rotator Cuff Repair for Shoulder Pain & Sports Injuries
A rotator cuff tear can make simple daily activities such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, exercising, or sleeping comfortably difficult and painful. Whether caused by a sports injury, repetitive overhead motion, or age-related tendon degeneration, a torn rotator cuff can significantly affect shoulder strength, stability, and function. When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, rotator cuff repair may help restore shoulder performance and reduce pain.
Dr. Richard Judd Robins, a dual board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty certification in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine, specializes in advanced rotator cuff repair for patients throughout Salt Lake City, Park City, Farmington, South Jordan, and surrounding Utah communities. Utilizing modern arthroscopic techniques and personalized rehabilitation plans, Dr. Robins helps patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence in their shoulder function.
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What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles in the shoulder joint including the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles originate in the scapula and attach to the head of the humerus through tendons. The rotator cuff forms a sleeve around the humeral head and glenoid cavity, providing stability to the shoulder joint while enabling a wide range of movements.
Injury to the rotator cuff may occur due to pressure on the rotator cuff from part of the shoulder blade (scapula). It may occur due to repeated use of the arm for overhead activities or while playing sports. A forceful injury such as trauma can cause one or more of these tendons to tear, a condition called rotator cuff tear.
What is Rotator Cuff Repair?
Rotator cuff repair is a surgery to repair an injured or torn rotator cuff. It is usually performed arthroscopically on an outpatient basis. An arthroscope, a small, fiber-optic instrument consisting of a lens, light source, and video camera. The camera projects images of the inside of the joint onto a large monitor, allowing your doctor to look for any damage, assess the type of injury and repair it. Large rotator cuff tears may require open surgery.
When is Rotator Cuff Repair Necessary?
Your doctor may suggest surgery to treat rotator cuff tears if you:
- do not respond to non-surgical treatment options
- have severe shoulder pain and experience loss of strength
- you want to return to sports soon
What Does Preparation for Rotator Cuff Repair Involve?
Your doctor will assess your symptoms and take your medical history. Imaging tests such as X-ray, MRI or CT-scan may be ordered. Talk to your doctor about the medicines you are taking prior to the procedure and if you are allergic to any medicines or anesthesia. Arrange for someone to drive you home.
What is the Procedure for Rotator Cuff Repair?
The procedure is performed under general or regional and involves the following steps:
- One or more incisions are made at the skin near the shoulder joint.
- An arthroscope is inserted through the incision.
- Miniature surgical instruments are inserted to remove the damaged part of the tendon and injured surrounding tissue.
- The damaged ends of the tendon are sewn together. Care is taken to prevent damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels.
- A suture anchor may be used to reattach a completely torn tendon to the bone.
- The incision is closed and covered with a bandage.
What Does Postoperative Care for Rotator Cuff Repair Involve?
Prescription pain medicines or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are used to manage pain. Your shoulder will be placed in a brace or cast and you will be encouraged to keep weight off. You will be allowed to perform specific physical therapy exercises as you heal. You may return to normal activities after 6 months.
What are the Risks and Complications of Rotator Cuff Repair?
As with any surgery, there are associated risks and complications may occur. Those related to rotator cuff repair may include:
- Anesthetic complications
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Stiffness
- Tendon re-tear
Richard Judd Robins
MD, FAAOS, FAANA Dual Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
Dr. Robins brings more than 26 years of experience in military service, orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, clinical care, and academic leadership. Throughout his distinguished career, he has dedicated himself to caring for active-duty military personnel, athletes, and patients with complex orthopaedic injuries while advancing education, research, and mentorship in orthopaedic sports medicine.
Why Choose Dr. Richard Judd Robins for Rotator Cuff Repair?
Choosing a highly trained sports medicine specialist is important when treating a rotator cuff tear. Successful outcomes depend on accurate diagnosis, surgical expertise, and a comprehensive rehabilitation program.
Dr. Robins offers:
- Dual board certification in Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
- Fellowship training in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
- Extensive experience treating athletes, active adults, and shoulder injuries
- Advanced expertise in arthroscopic shoulder surgery and rotator cuff repair
- Individualized treatment plans based on your injury, activity level, and goals
- Comprehensive care from diagnosis through recovery and rehabilitation
- Commitment to helping patients return safely to sports, work, and daily activities
Whether your rotator cuff tear developed gradually or resulted from a traumatic injury, Dr. Robins is dedicated to providing expert care focused on long-term shoulder health and function.
Rotator Cuff Repair FAQs
What is a rotator cuff tear?
A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons that stabilize the shoulder become partially or completely torn. Tears may develop from repetitive use, aging, sports injuries, or traumatic accidents.
When is rotator cuff repair surgery recommended?
Surgery may be recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to relieve symptoms, when significant weakness or loss of shoulder function is present, or when a patient wishes to return to sports or demanding physical activities.
Is rotator cuff repair performed arthroscopically?
Yes. Many rotator cuff repairs are performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques through small incisions. Larger or more complex tears may occasionally require open surgical repair.
How long does recovery take after rotator cuff repair?
Recovery varies depending on the size of the tear and the repair performed. Most patients participate in physical therapy for several months, with full recovery often taking four to six months or longer.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Yes. Physical therapy is a critical part of recovery and helps restore shoulder strength, flexibility, range of motion, and overall function.
Can a repaired rotator cuff tear again?
Although rotator cuff repairs are generally successful, a re-tear can occur, particularly with large tears, premature return to activity, or additional injury. Following postoperative instructions can help reduce this risk.
Schedule a Rotator Cuff Repair Consultation in Salt Lake City, UT
If shoulder pain, weakness, or limited mobility is preventing you from enjoying work, sports, or daily activities, expert evaluation can help determine the best treatment option. Dr. Richard Judd Robins provides advanced rotator cuff repair and comprehensive shoulder care for patients throughout Salt Lake City, Park City, Farmington, South Jordan, and surrounding Utah communities.
Schedule your consultation today to learn more about your treatment options and whether rotator cuff repair can help relieve pain, restore shoulder function, and get you back to the activities you enjoy with confidence.
