Shoulder Pain

I've been diagnosed with a small tear in left rotator cuff (MRI) and bone spurs in both shoulders (x-rays).  Any advantage/disadvantage to avoiding surgery.  Everyday motion very painful.  Is damage being done?  What is typical recovery time from surgical procedures.  

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Since the changes are early and the tear is small, surgery may nor particularly be required unless severely symptomatic not responding to conservative management. Though these are no major disadvantages of doing a surgery, I would suggest an initial trial of anti-inflammatory medication and physiotherapy and see if these seem to help. Surgical procedure may take a few days/ weeks for recovery depending on the exact procedure performed. I would suggest discussing the situation and the management plan in detail with your treating orthopedician. Hope this helps.

Take care!