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Can athletes recover from a rotator cuff tear without surgery?

Not all rotator cuff tears require surgery, especially if the tear is partial or mild. Many athletes benefit from a non-surgical approach that includes physical therapy, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, regenerative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may also be considered to encourage healing.

That said, more severe tears—especially those that affect strength and range of motion—often do not heal on their own. For competitive athletes, the decision to pursue surgical repair often depends on the level of play, the demands of the sport, and how much the injury impacts performance.

If you’re unsure whether surgery is necessary for your rotator cuff injury, consulting a specialist at Badia Hand to Shoulder Center can help you understand your options and create a recovery plan tailored to your athletic goals.

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- Cutting-edge diagnostic capabilities,
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- A dedicated rehabilitation center , and
- OrthoNOW®, a walk-in immediate care center

Contact us today for an appointment or Telemedicine consultation from anywhere around the world. You don’t have to face this alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common shoulder injuries in athletes?

What are the most common shoulder injuries in athletes? Athletes often place heavy demands on their shoulders, especially in sports that require repetitive overhead motions such as baseball, tennis, swimming, and volleyball. The most common injuries seen in this group include rotator cuff tears, labral tears, impingement syndrome, dislocations, and tendonitis. These conditions develop either from sudden trauma, like a fall or collision, [...]
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