However, older, multiply injured, multiply injected tendon in a smoker may tear with no injury at all. Full thickness tears do not heal by themselves because the muscles pull the edges of the tear apart. However, it is possible for full or partial thickness tears to stabilize, leaving the shoulder with reasonable comfort and function. A surgeon experienced in shoulder surgery can repair a rotator cuff tear if there is enough good quality tendon tissue. The more force necessary to produce a tear, the more likely it is that the tear will be surgically repairable.
Healthy tendon requires a major force to tear it.
Tears resulting from major injury can usually be repaired successfully if surgery is not delayed more than several weeks. Weakened, degenerative cuff tissue is more easily torn, even by normal activities. Durable repair of these tears may not be possible because of the lack of sufficient quantity and quality of tendon tissue. For these reasons, patients should seek prompt evaluation of shoulder weakness by an experienced shoulder surgeon, especially if the weakness comes on suddenly, or after an injury. Disclaimer Please honor our copyrights and disclaimer.