Don’t Jump Straight into Rotator Cuff Surgery

By Dr. Lauren Rueda | Phoenix Men’s Health Center

If you’ve been told you need rotator cuff surgery, you’re not alone.

A lot of men walk into our clinic after imaging shows a tear. They’ve seen the surgeon, and the next step seems obvious: get on the rotator cuff surgery schedule. But hold up—before you go under the knife, let’s talk about some powerful alternatives that could help you heal without surgery.

Why Surgery Isn’t Always the First Step

Surgery should be considered the last stop on your treatment journey—not the first. Once you’ve had rotator cuff surgery, the recovery is long, and your options afterward are limited. That’s why it’s important to explore other treatments first—especially if you rely on your arms for work, family life, or just everyday movement.

Rotator Cuff Surgery vs PRP

One option to consider is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). This treatment uses your own blood, spun down to extract potent healing factors, which are then injected directly into the tear. PRP can stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and help you recover without the downtime of surgery.

It’s your body doing the work—just supercharged in the right direction.

Rotator Cuff Surgery vs Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate

Another advanced option is Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC). This involves drawing a small amount of bone marrow, usually from your hip, and concentrating it to extract growth factors and stem cells. These are then injected into the damaged area to help regenerate tissue and support healing.

BMAC is a great option for guys who can’t take months off work or hit pause on their lives for surgery. It’s regenerative medicine, built for real life.

Know Your Options Before Committing

Every injury is different, and not all tears will respond the same way. But one thing is certain: you owe it to yourself to consider all your options before scheduling surgery.

At Phoenix Men’s Health Center, we help you make informed choices with expert guidance—no pressure, no rush. Just the information and support you need to take control of your health.

Let’s Talk.

If you’re dealing with shoulder pain or a diagnosed rotator cuff tear, let’s talk about what’s right for you. Whether it’s PRP, BMAC, or something else entirely, we’re here to help you find the best path forward.