• Pain in the front and side of the shoulder, sometimes radiating down to the upper arm.
• Pain is often worse when lying on the affected shoulder.
• If the tear is large, the patient may be unable to lift the arm.
• Weakness in the arm due to muscle wasting around the shoulder.

• A torn rotator cuff tendon cannot heal by itself.
• The tear tends to enlarge over time.
• If left untreated, the tendon retracts and may no longer be repairable, leading to future shoulder arthritis.
• Diagnosis requires MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).

Treatment
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
The torn tendon is repaired using anchors and special sutures.
The procedure is performed with a 4 mm arthroscope and fine surgical instruments.
Typically, 5 small incisions (about 1 cm each) are made around the shoulder.

• Shoulder pain decreases significantly.
• Improved ability to lift and move the arm.
• Patients can resume normal daily activities such as carrying objects, combing hair, or reaching behind the back.
• Night pain reduces, allowing for better sleep.

• A sling is required for about 4 weeks to allow tendon healing.
• The healing rate of the tendon is generally 80–90%, depending on surgical technique and tissue quality.
• Full recovery of pain relief and shoulder function usually takes 4–5 months after surgery.
• Physiotherapy after surgery is essential to prevent shoulder stiffness and optimize recovery.