Non-operative Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tears – Is it OK?

Do full-thickness rotator cuff tears always require surgery, or is that just long-standing dogma? In this evidence-based session, we'll challenge traditional assumptions by examining high-quality data on asymptomatic tears, randomized controlled trials, and post-surgical healing rates. Discover why conservative care may not only be appropriate, but often the preferred first-line approach. Walk away with practical strategies for patient counseling and a clear, effective therapy protocol you can confidently implement in practice.

• -Evaluate current evidence regarding the natural history and prognosis of asymptomatic rotator cuff tears
• -Distinguish between tears requiring surgical intervention and those appropriate for conservative management based on clinical presentation and imaging findings
• -Review outcomes from randomized controlled trials comparing surgical versus non-operative approaches for rotator cuff pathology
• -Develop practical patient counseling strategies to manage expectations and improve compliance with conservative care protocols
• -Implement evidence-based manual therapy and exercise protocols for rotator cuff tear management in clinical practice
• -Identify red flags and contraindications that would necessitate surgical consultation or referral