If a rotator cuff tear is causing significant symptoms, which are affecting the activities of daily living, recreation, and/or work, then the patient needs to see a physician for treatment. The treatment can be in the form of non-operative means like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, with or without cortisone injections. If the patient has no relief at all with these non-operative means, then he may need a surgical intervention in the form of repair to take care of his pain and other symptoms.