If you have a rotator cuff tear several factors influence whether or not you are a good surgical candidate. These can include level of function, age, extent of the tear, and if it was a traumatic injury or developed chronically over time. Current research shows that in many cases conservative management like physiotherapy has similar outcomes when compared to surgery. Physiotherapy for rotator cuff injuries focuses on strength, posture, and mobility, all of which help to decrease shoulder pain and improve function. In cases requiring surgery, those who engage in physiotherapy while waiting for surgery have improved outcomes post operatively.