7 mm Rotator Cuff Tear: Severity, Treatment Options, and Recovery Timeline

Understanding a 7 mm Rotator Cuff Tear

A 7 mm full-thickness tear is classified as large (tears >5 cm are massive; 3–5 cm large; 1–3 cm medium; <1 cm small). It involves significant tendon disruption, causing pain, weakness, and limited overhead motion.

Common Causes

• Repetitive overhead activity (throwing, swimming, painting).
• Acute trauma (fall on outstretched arm).
• Degenerative wear with age (>60 years).

Treatment Algorithm

1. Conservative (first-line for many): Activity modification, NSAIDs, structured physical therapy (scapular stabilization, rotator cuff strengthening). 3–6 month trial.
2. Injection: Subacromial corticosteroid for pain relief to facilitate PT.
3. Surgery (arthroscopic repair): Indicated if conservative fails, acute traumatic tear in young active patient, or tear >1 cm with retraction. Double-row suture anchor repair.

Recovery

• Post-op: Sling 4–6 weeks; passive motion → active motion → strengthening.
• Full recovery: 6–12 months.
• Re-tear risk: 10–30% depending on tear size, tissue quality, age, compliance.

When to See a Specialist

Persistent shoulder pain >6 weeks, night pain, weakness on empty can test, or functional limitation.