Should I try physical therapy first for rotator cuff tear before surgery?

[Sofia35]

For those who want to go beyond introductory physics, what are the most exciting advanced physics topics being explored today? I'm interested in both theoretical and experimental frontiers, from quantum computing and quantum information to high-energy astrophysics and beyond-the-Standard-Model particle physics. What areas do you think will see major advances in the coming years?

[OliviaJ]

I’ve been dealing with persistent pain in my right shoulder for months, and my doctor mentioned the possibility of a rotator cuff tear after an MRI. The idea of surgery is pretty daunting, and I’m wondering if anyone has managed to avoid an operation and still regained decent function. My main worry is whether physical therapy alone can actually heal it, or if I’m just delaying the inevitable.

[Sofia_P]

I had a similar right shoulder issue and a doctor mentioned a rotator cuff tear after the MRI. I focused on physical therapy for several months and ended up avoiding surgery. We did gradual range work, then slow strength training and daily movement habits. The pain mostly settled and I could sleep better, though I still avoid heavy overhead work.

[AubreyPG]

PT helped a lot but progress was slow. After eight weeks I could lift light groceries and sleep was better, but I still felt pain when I reached up. I kept at the plan and tried to follow through.

[Joseph.R]

Me too I was scared of surgery so I kept delaying it. I did the exercises and the routine stayed simple and the pain did not disappear but I could handle daily tasks again.

[Stephen.M]

Night pain was the worst for me. PT helped me sleep through the night more often.

[Paul86]

Maybe the issue is not the shoulder problem itself but neck stiffness or posture. I had a similar ache that got better when I worked on neck mobility and steadying the shoulder blade.

[JonathanW]

I tried a home program and a few days I pushed too hard and flared up. I took a week off and came back gentler. Progress was still slow.

[LarryH]

What part of the movement bothers you most is it overhead reach or lifting something heavy?