Surgery for shoulder pain

Is surgery right for shoulder pain?

Shoulder surgery is usually considered only when pain or weakness continues to limit daily life even after a period of focused, conservative care. Many people with shoulder pain, including rotator cuff–related shoulder pain or frozen shoulder (condition with pain and motion loss), improve without surgery.

Your doctor may talk about surgery if:

• Pain stays the same or gets worse after a structured program of exercise and guided rehabilitation
• You have nerve-related symptoms(like numbness or tingling), major weakness, or trouble lifting the arm
• Imaging shows a full-thickness tendon tear or other structural issue that can be repaired
• An injury such as a dislocation or fracture caused sudden loss of function

Surgery is never automatic. The right choice depends on your goals, the type of shoulder problem you have, and how much pain affects your life. A shared conversation with your doctor can help you make an informed decision.

Common surgical options for shoulder pain

Here are procedures your surgeon may discuss, depending on your diagnosis:

Rotator cuff repair

Repairs torn shoulder tendons to restore strength and movement. Often considered for full-thickness tears that do not improve with conservative care or follow an injury.

Capsular release

Used for adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder (loss of motion due to capsule adhesions) that does not improve over many months. Releases tight tissue to improve motion.

Shoulder stabilization

Helps people with recurrent shoulder (joint popping out) or instability sensation (popping out feeling). Tightens or repairs stretched or torn tissues.

Shoulder replacement

Used mainly for severe arthritis when pain and stiffness limit basic daily activities. Replaces the damaged joint surfaces with artificial metallic joint parts.

What to expect during recovery

Recovery looks different for every person. Your timeline depends on the type of surgery, your overall health, and how long the shoulder has been painful.

• Pain and swelling are common in the first days or weeks. Ice, medications, and supported positioning help early comfort.
• Movement restrictions may be needed at first, especially after rotator cuff repair or stabilization surgery, to protect healing tissues.
• Rehabilitation is a major part of recovery before and after surgery. Most people work on gentle motion first, then gradually rebuild strength and control.
• Daily activities such as dressing, reaching, or lifting may feel limited for weeks to months.
• Possible risks include infection, bleeding, stiffness, incomplete symptom relief, or the need for additional procedures, although these are uncommon.

Research shows that recovery after shoulder surgery for tendon tear can take several months and varies based on tear size, tissue quality, and pre-surgery function¹. Good preparation and steady participation in rehab can help you return to the activities that matter most.

Can surgery be avoided?

Often, yes. Many people recover from shoulder pain without surgery.

A structured program of education and exercise improves strength, reduces pain, and supports long-term shoulder health. Clinical guidelines recommend starting with conservative care because it is effective for most cases of rotator cuff–related pain and frozen shoulder [2].

You can explore more on the Physical Therapy for Shoulder Pain subpage.

Digital rehabilitation can also support recovery. In a large randomized study, digital physical therapy helped people reduce pain and disability as effectively as in-person programs for chronic shoulder pain³.

Sword’s own research shows that members following digital care programs stay highly engaged with rehabilitation, which is a key part of recovery success⁴.

How Sword can support you before and after surgery

Physical therapy can play an important role in preparing for surgery, supporting recovery, and, in some cases, helping people manage symptoms without surgery. Sword offers physical therapy programs designed to support you at different points along that journey.

Sword supports recovery before and after surgery, with care designed to fit into your life. You receive high-quality physical therapy at home, guided by licensed clinicians and supported by smart technology.

• Care that adapts as your body and recovery needs change
• Licensed physical therapists guiding your care at every stage
• Non-invasive, evidence-based physical therapy programs

Support for preparation, recovery, and long-term movement health

Clinical insight

Guidelines from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommend considering rotator cuff repair only when a tear is confirmed on imaging and symptoms continue despite focused nonoperative treatment. This highlights the importance of shared decision-making and a strong trial of conservative care before surgery⁷.