Most Common Shoulder Injury
Rotator Cuff Tear
A tear in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder and enable arm movement — causing persistent pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear affects the group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, stabilise it, and allow lifting, rotating, and reaching movements. The rotator cuff can be torn due to sudden injury, repetitive overhead activities, or gradual degeneration of the tendons with age. The condition is commonly seen in athletes, people involved in physically demanding work, and older adults. Rotator cuff tears range from partial tears to complete full-thickness tears. When the tear is severe or does not respond to conservative treatment, rotator cuff repair surgery may be recommended. Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu offers advanced rotator cuff repair in Hyderabad at Lux Hospitals — including arthroscopic repair, mini-open repair, superior capsular reconstruction, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty for the most complex cases.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Repetitive overhead movements during sports or work
- Sudden injury or trauma to the shoulder
- Degeneration of tendons due to ageing
- Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
- Poor shoulder posture or mechanics over time
- Reduced blood supply to the rotator cuff tendons with age
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Some fibres damaged — conservative treatment often effective
Complete tendon rupture — arthroscopic or open repair recommended
Minimally invasive repair with smaller incisions and faster recovery
Superior capsular reconstruction or reverse arthroplasty for irreparable tears
Several weeks to months with physiotherapy — varies by severity
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Rotator Cuff Repair in Hyderabad — Full Spectrum Care
Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu offers the complete range of rotator cuff tear repair options — from arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for most tears, to mini-open repair for larger complex tears, superior capsular reconstruction for irreparable massive tears, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty for severe combined damage. Every treatment is tailored to the patient's individual tear pattern, age, and activity goals. Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
- 1
Step 1: Assessment & Imaging
Clinical examination and MRI or ultrasound confirm the size, location, and severity of the rotator cuff tear and guide selection of the most appropriate treatment.
- 2
Step 2: Conservative Treatment
Partial and mild tears are initially managed with physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and activity modification. Many patients improve significantly without surgery.
- 3
Step 3: Arthroscopic or Open Repair
For significant or complete tears, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is performed — the torn tendon is reattached to the bone using specialised anchors through small keyhole incisions.
- 4
Step 4: Rehabilitation
The arm is supported in a sling initially. A structured physiotherapy programme progressively restores shoulder strength, stability, and full range of motion.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
TreatmentOptions
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Minimally invasive repair of the torn tendon using keyhole techniques. Preferred method for most rotator cuff tears.
Mini-Open / Open Rotator Cuff Repair
For larger or complex tears — performed through a small or traditional incision. Provides direct access for tendon reattachment.
Superior Capsular Reconstruction (SCR)
For massive irreparable rotator cuff tears — a graft tissue reconstructs the superior capsule to restore shoulder stability.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty
For severe rotator cuff damage combined with arthritis — the shoulder joint mechanics are reversed to restore arm movement.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Satish Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.