I had the surgery back in the early 90's followed by therapy.
Mine was a severe tear and so I did lose a certain percentage of use but that was due to the severity of it AND by prolonging the surgery. I have full use of my arm until I raise it above my shoulder height. I can only get my hand up even with my head. To comb my hair I have to use my other hand to boost it up farther.
Would I have the surgery again? Yes, but I wouldn't put it off. I would have it done before trying all the other methods first. They do the surgery laproscoproly (sp) now as opposed to the old fashioned way of cutting it wide open like mine was.My advise would be get it done ASAP.
Good luck to you in what ever you choose to do. Keep us informed of your progress.

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Barb


My GOD Bless our Country and our Troops, and rid the World of terroists.