Updated September 13, 2026.

There is no single new treatment that is best for every rotator cuff tear. Treatment decisions should start with the diagnosis, the effect on your daily activities, and the evidence for the proposed treatment—not simply whether it is advertised as new.

What does the evidence say about PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is prepared from a person’s own blood. Its use for shoulder problems is still being studied. The 2025 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons guideline does not support routine PRP injections for rotator cuff tendinopathy or partial-thickness tears. This recommendation is different from a promise that PRP repairs a torn tendon. Ask which diagnosis a proposed injection is intended to treat and what benefit is realistically expected.

Are stem cell treatments approved for rotator cuff tears?

The FDA’s patient guidance on regenerative medicine states that regenerative medicine therapies have not been approved for orthopedic conditions such as shoulder pain. Marketing a product as “regenerative” or using a patient’s own cells does not establish that it is an approved or proven treatment. Ask about the product’s regulatory status, evidence for your condition, risks, and costs before making a decision.

Where do rehabilitation and surgery fit?

Established options remain important. Depending on the tear, nonsurgical care can include modifying painful activities and an individualized physical therapy program. Surgery may be considered when symptoms, weakness, injury characteristics, or functional demands warrant it. The goal is better comfort and function; no treatment can guarantee a particular outcome. See AAOS’s overview of rotator cuff treatment.

Questions to take to an appointment

• What is my diagnosis, and do I need imaging to clarify it?
• What improvement should we measure: sleep, reaching, strength, or return to work?
• How does this option compare with rehabilitation or surgical evaluation?
• What are the risks and out-of-pocket costs?
• When should we reassess if the plan is not helping?

Bring previous imaging reports, treatment details, and a description of the tasks your shoulder makes difficult. That information is more useful than choosing a treatment based on a headline.

Discuss shoulder rehabilitation in Wichita

Learn about our sports rehabilitation services and physical therapy team. For an appointment at Wichita Physical Therapy Group, contact the clinic or call (316) 358-9942. The team can confirm your visit location and discuss the next steps for an evaluation.

This article provides general education and does not determine which treatment is appropriate for an individual injury.