Shoulder
Rotator cuff tear: what should you ask a shoulder physician?
A good discussion separates pain relief, strength, tendon healing and the recovery demands of each option.
Read the guideReviews by topic · Conditions
When you are looking into rotator cuff care, the details people share can help you prepare for a conversation. These patient reviews mention the subject directly and link to the clinician and original source.
This collection shows written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars. These are individual experiences. A topic mention does not establish who performed a procedure, medical suitability or a typical result.
People behind your care
Clinician order rotates between visits. Each portrait stays with that clinician’s patient accounts. Read the full reviews for context.
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after two concurrent surgeries - a massive rotator cuff tear as well as a torn quadriceps tendon - Brett was instrumental in my regaining complete
Brett Pugh, PT, DPT
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Dr combs has operated on my body a few times.. rotator cuff, hip replacement, miniscule.
Christopher Combs, MD
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I'm filled with graduate for that chance to end up having my left rotator cuff surgery done by him.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
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I saw Dr. Millstein about 15 years ago for a torn rotator cuff.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
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At 60 I have had all types of joint pain over the years, knee operations, rotator cuff tears etc,
Sanjay Khurana, MD
Make it personal
Use the accounts here to think about the questions you want to bring to our team.
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Browse the written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars that match this topic. Filter by clinician, source, or rating.
17 written reviews
Highest rated first · Newest within each rating
Dr. Eric Millstein was my last minute second option, I'm filled with graduate for that chance to end up having my left rotator cuff surgery done by him. I can’t say enough good things about the entire experience. From my very first consultation, he was thorough, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable, he took the time to clearly explain my diagnosis, walk me through all my treatment options, and set realistic expectations for recovery. The surgery itself went smoothly, and I felt confident knowing I was in such capable hands. What really stood out, though, was the level of care and attention I received throughout the entire process, from pre-op to post-op follow-ups from the entire crew. Today, 10 weeks after the surgery, and only 5 weeks of physical therapy, I'm extremely happy and satisfied with my recovery progress, now I can see it thorough, full recovery is just around the corner. If you’re looking for a skilled, compassionate, and dedicated orthopedic surgeon, I highly recommend Dr. Millstein!!
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Dr combs has operated on my body a few times.. rotator cuff, hip replacement, miniscule. Always excellent work. No problems. Listens to you. I refer him, indeed. God bless him.
Christopher Combs, MD
Dr. Millstein restored my right rotator cuff to better-than-new condition nine years ago. My latest visit was to be examined for soreness in my left shoulder. X-rays and an examination by him indicated it was nothing more than a pulled ligament requiring some physical therapy. I found Dr. Millstein to be just as personable and professional as he was years ago. See him. Trust him. You’ll be glad you did.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
I saw Dr. Millstein about 15 years ago for a torn rotator cuff. He did surgery and brought me back to 100%. I have seen him since for other issues, and he has always been great. Surgery is always his last option, and he does everything he can to avoid it. Most recently, I saw him for a problem with my scapula. He immediately told me that X-rays and other procedures were not needed and explained that physical therapy is what is needed. He then proceeded to find me several providers near me. For a surgeon who makes his money doing surgery to avoid it as much as possible, you know he cares about his patients and doing the right thing.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
I can't say enough great things, about this doctor, his staff and the surgical center, where he performed my rotator cuff surgery, in November. Incredibly humble doctor, who doesn't think he's God, but truly is, in his field. Should my husband, or I need (fingers crossed that we won't) knees, or shoulders, he's our guy. Fabulous personality, too! Thanks Dr. Millstein, so happy to be back on the court!
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Excellent orthopedic very patient and professional. Torn meniscus and rotator cuff consultation with him. Highly recommend.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Brett Pugh, PT, DPT is a detailed and experienced physical therapist who got me back to functional health after two concurrent surgeries - a massive rotator cuff tear as well as a torn quadriceps tendon - Brett was instrumental in my regaining complete function and range of motion for both ailments! If you’re broken, let Brett fix you!
Brett Pugh, PT, DPT
I visited Dr. Millstein for a torn rotator cuff and then two months later for a fractured kneecap. Dr. Millstein is incredibly knowledgeable and is conservative in his treatment. I've heard that surgeons are quick to want to perform surgery, but Dr. Millstein listened carefully, looked at test results and determined that surgery was not necessary for either of my injuries. His skillset is top-notch and he answers all questions without rushing you. His staff is also as phenomenal as he - they are very efficient, kind and follow through with all calls, forms, etc. If I could give Dr. Millstein 10 stars, I would. He is deserving.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Dr Millstein is a superstar! Fixed my fully torn rotator cuff 6 years ago and I'm doing yoga 5+ days a week. First choice for shoulder or knee problems.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Would give this guy 100 stars if I could! Was referred by both one of my best friends and my son who is an insurance defense lawyer who uses both drs Kaye and Millstein as their ortho experts. Had rotator cuff surgery and was expecting the worst, given all of the people I talked to who had the same procedure done. Couldn't have been easier. Little pain and discomfort, but that should be expected why you get high quality care. Dr. Millstein was out of network but paid his fee in cash happily. I'm playing golf this weekend, 14 weeks post surgery. Dr. Millstein's CV is ridiculous, as are his doctor and surgical skills.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Best Orthopedic surgeon I have ever had the experience of being treated by! From the moment I called to make the appointment and spoke to Beth, until I left the office. Dr Millstein was down to earth, honest, professional and straightforward with me. I am in my 70's, have travelled extensively my entire life, so I've had a lot of experience with many types of doctors, with several broken bones in my life, I speak from experience. I highly recommend this wonderful surgeon (also the reviews demonstrate this along, with some of his previous and current patients with whom I spoke) And of course, it all trickles from the top, suggesting that every staff member in Dr Millstein's facility followed suite, all being kind, professional, efficient and caring. I had a torn rotator cuff and 3 out of 4 shredded tendons in my right shoulder. No more! So, in conclusion, go to the best orthopedic surgeon and staff I have ever encountered, Dr Millstein and his staff will put you at ease and change your life for the better, forever.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Dr. Millstein is a wonderful doctor. I went to him for knee replacement surgery, as well as for his opinion regarding rotator cuff surgery. He suggested that no surgery was necessary at this time. I trust Dr. M and his opinions.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Hello to my fellow back pain sufferers. At 60 I have had all types of joint pain over the years, knee operations, rotator cuff tears etc, but nothing is worse than back pain which I felt severely limited my quality of life. After 5 years of severe back pain, acupuncture treatments, chiroprator visits, physical therapy and stretching exercizes, and 4 spine specialists (2 told me I needed back surgery, 2 told me surgery could make my back worse!) I finally came to know Dr. Khurana through a friend my age with simimar back issues who sang his praises. Long story short, Dr. Khurana is something of a miracle worker if you ask me. Had my surgery 8 months ago and after a few weeks of post surgery discomfort my back has been virtually pain free. No more frantically looking around for a chair when in a conversation, now I walk the Topanga hills of the SM mountains for exercize, no problem. Back pain is no joke, if you tried and tried to do things to alleviate the pain but nothing is really working...do yourself a favor and go see Dr. Khurana. If you elect to have surgery, ask to go to Docs hospital by San Vicente and Fairfax, a doctor owned facility which is a far sight better than one of those huge hospitals.
Sanjay Khurana, MD
I’m a physical therapist and struggling to be the patient now after tearing my rotator cuff. Dr. Millstein got me in quickly for a consultation and made me feel confident that I will be able to get back 100% to my very physical work and all the sporting activities I love! Thank you!
Eric S. Millstein, MD
I was referred to Dr Millstein by a friend who was happy with him. I'm glad I was. He performed my rotator cuff surgery. I was scared and nervous as this was my first time ever having any issues with my body, let alone surgery. Dr Millstein took ample time to sit with me prior to surgery and go through in detail what would happen. He's quite busy, but it made me feel good to know he was so generous with his time. The surgery went well and the recovery, although long and painful, has went well too. I'm now 7 months removed from surgery and it appears I'll be almost as good as new. The nurses and his staff are super nice too both in their demeanor and responsiveness. Further as I only had Catastrophic insurance and therefore was going to be paying for this out of pocket they helped me understand the exact costs prior to surgery and were honest and forthright. When the bills came due it was just as they said months prior. Dr. Millstein is quite busy - but he's worth the wait. If you're unlucky enough to have an issue get an appointment with him and don't look back.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
Today I received probably the worst news an athlete could have expected on a first visit - a potential Rotator Cuff tear (needs further diagnosis via MRI). The positive is I felt I was dealing with a total professional, nice, human who understood that, though in my 40's, I am still a competitive athlete who just wants to continue doing what I love. No lectures, no obvious impatience with my chosen lifestyle, etc. He introduced himself as Eric (i of couse said nice to meet you Dr....) and then walked me through what he saw at this point in my examination - explained on his iPad (yes the dude is tech savvy) how the rotator cuff is comprised, its function, and why I am feeling the pain I do. In the midst of all this potential bad news, I felt comforted, his staff was top notch, facilities clean etc... Yes I have an MRI to go - maybe surgery (maybe not!!!) but all I can say is if you are in the same boat I am, don't muck around, call his office, go see him - then make your decisions based on what you learn. Oh and though I saw him in Beverly Hills I was in and out in an hour... Lovely.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
I wish I had my mind sharper at the time. I discovered in retrospect that I was getting sick. There were more questions about a life and the timing around the operation with or without the perspective rotator cuff operation. I suppose I can formulate my thoughts and send my questions in later.
Eric S. Millstein, MD
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Shoulder
A good discussion separates pain relief, strength, tendon healing and the recovery demands of each option.
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