Rotator Cuff Repair

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow smooth, controlled movement of the arm. These tendons keep the ball of the shoulder joint centered in the socket while lifting, rotating, and reaching.

When the rotator cuff is torn, the shoulder can become painful, weak, and less stable. Everyday movements like reaching overhead, lifting objects, or sleeping on the shoulder may become difficult.

Patients with a rotator cuff tear may experience:

• Pain when lifting or lowering the arm

• Weakness with overhead activity

• Night pain or difficulty sleeping on the shoulder

• Clicking or catching during motion

• Reduced range of motion or stiffness

Symptoms can develop suddenly after an injury or gradually over time.

Rotator cuff injuries can result from:

• A fall onto the shoulder

• Lifting something heavy overhead

• Repetitive overhead activity in sports or work

• Age-related tendon wear

• Shoulder impingement over time

Tears are common in athletes who perform overhead motions, including baseball, tennis, and swimming.

Dr. Pearle specializes in arthroscopic shoulder surgery, using advanced minimally invasive techniques to repair rotator cuff tears while protecting surrounding tissue.

He evaluates tear size, tendon quality, shoulder mechanics, and patient activity level to determine the best repair strategy. His goal is to restore strength and stability while preserving the long-term health of the shoulder joint.

Rotator cuff repair is performed arthroscopically using small incisions and a specialized camera.

During the procedure, Dr. Pearle:

• Removes inflamed tissue and prepares the bone surface

• Reattaches the torn tendon to the bone using small anchors

• Restores the natural tension and alignment of the tendon

This minimally invasive approach reduces tissue disruption while allowing precise repair.

Recovery from rotator cuff repair occurs in phases:

• Early healing: The shoulder is protected in a sling while the tendon begins to heal

• Motion recovery: Gentle physical therapy restores range of motion

• Strength rebuilding: Progressive strengthening restores stability and function

Most patients gradually return to daily activities, sports, and overhead movement as strength improves.

All procedures are performed at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), the nation’s #1 orthopedic hospital. Patients benefit from specialized anesthesia, orthopedic nursing, advanced imaging, and expert rehabilitation.

To relieve pain, restore shoulder strength and motion, and allow patients to return to the activities they enjoy.