Depending on the severity of the rotator cuff issue or injury will depend if you can get orthopedic treatments and continue healing at home, or if an orthopedic doctor will need to perform surgery. If the pain is severe and lingers for more than a few months, it is a sign you will most likely need surgery. However, before an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair can be completed on your shoulder, we will need to ensure that is the main issue by a diagnosis of the area. This is why visiting an orthopedic clinic is a better option than other physicians, as orthopedic doctors specialize in the muscles and tendons within the body. If treatment can be completed with at-home treatments, our orthopedic surgeon will recommend you ice the area for a certain timeframe, and possibly use over-the-counter pain relievers like naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin to help with swelling and to ease any pain you may be dealing with. They may also recommend you visit a physical therapist to help restore your shoulder strength. If surgery is necessary due to previous steps not providing relief, the orthopedic surgeon can schedule you in, and go over what needs to be completed before and after surgery to ensure success. To be considered for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for your shoulder, you will need to meet some of the following: - Shoulder has not improved within 6 to 12 months - You have begun to lose strength within the shoulder - Find it painful to move the shoulder - Diagnostic imaging tests have confirmed you have a tear in your rotator cuff tendon - You actively rely on your shoulder strength for workouts, sports, or your job