Rotator cuff surgery is very slow to heal, with post-surgical pain lasting up to six months. Patients are advised to be diligent about physical therapy to regain complete use of their arms. Click ...

However, in a 2019 study involving 135 people who received arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery, the average time for full recovery was 14 months. So, recovery can vary from person to person.

Rotator cuff injuries prevent patients from raising their arms overhead. Dr. Gasbarro opted for cuff augmentation surgery, using Owings’ own bicep to reattach his tendons.

Dear Dr. Roach: I had an MRI that showed three of my four rotator cuff tendons have complete tears. I can only lift my right arm midway. I cannot comb my hair, and I’m right-handed.