The decision for a surgery for a rotator cuff repair is made after discussion between the patient and the physician. The patient may decide not to get surgery done and, in such case, they may decide to be treated conservatively in the form of anti-inflammatory medication, cortisone injections, and physical therapy.
These patients will usually get a little better with all these management, but there may be deterioration over time due to decreasing effect of the medications, as well as chances of worsening of the tear. Patient can, later, decide to undergo surgery once they feel that they have failed all of the conservative measures for the management of the rotator cuff tear.