Role of Conservative Treatment vs Surgical Treatment for Rotator Cuff Tears: A Narrative Review

Purpose of Review: Rotator cuff tear is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and affects people of all ages. The purpose of this review is to discuss the role of conservative and surgical treatment in the management of rotator cuff tear injuries. Recent Findings: Conservative means of treatment include oral medications, physical therapy, and injections. Newer injections are being seen used more often, such as prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma, and stem cells. While conservative treatment still is generally the first-line treatment, surgery is considered the most definitive form of repair. Summary: Conservative treatment, generally starting with physical therapy and possibly combined with oral medication and/or an injection, has been the mainstay of initial treatment. Surgery is then often performed if conservative means fail. There is still no general consensus on when surgery is indicated as primary treatment; however, timing of injury, extent of tear, and impact on pain and function seem to be the general considerations when weighing out treatment options.