Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Affton, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize how these injuries can affect your life and mental health. Our experienced physical therapy team in Affton, MO is ready to provide the personalized care you need to feel like your old self again. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities you enjoy, whether it’s participating in sports, working, spending time with your children, or just living without pain.

Feel free to come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, request an appointment online, or contact the Axes location nearest you to begin your recovery journey.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff represents an important component of the shoulder’s anatomy, comprising four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles collaborate to stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of actions, including lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are classified into different degrees of severity, and how severe your tear is will direct your treatment approach and recovery timeline. The two main types of tears comprise:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon gets frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Though still painful and restrictive, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: With a full-thickness tear, the tendon is separated from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to require surgery. A partial full-thickness tear means there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear means the tendon fully detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Being aware of the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you steer clear of injury or identify the root cause of your symptoms:

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, repeated stress from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons gradually weaken, heightening the chance of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Understanding the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is key to seeking timely treatment. Typical symptoms may include:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, especially at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Reduced strength in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, notably when raising the arm or stretching overhead.
• A crackling sensation or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps explain why prompt treatment is crucial to avoid further damage and to restore normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Affton, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The sooner you detect the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. If you have already been diagnosed by a doctor, we’ll collaborate with you and your Affton, MO physician to get you the best possible treatment and outcome available.

You are welcome to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We start with a thorough physical examination to check your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If required, we may refer you for imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound to get a detailed view of the injury.

The Direct Access Physical Therapy laws in both Missouri and Illinois allow us to evaluate and diagnose you, begin your treatment, and conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Affton, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Affton, MO

Rotator cuff tears don’t always require surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments are effective at alleviating pain and help restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that addresses your specific needs.

Affton, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is typically the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists design personalized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. This is how physical therapy assists:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to fortify the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to expand the range of motion and reduce stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Methods like manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Proper pain management is crucial for recovery. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may advise a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections could be used to relieve pain and inflammation, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Affton, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to modify daily activities to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to promote healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Following your physical therapy plan, showing up for all scheduled appointments, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you at every stage, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Affton, MO

If non-surgical treatments don’t bring adequate relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options vary depending on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures consist of:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure where small instruments are used to repair the tear.
• Open Repair: A standard procedure for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Needed when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

Regardless of the type of surgery, physical therapy plays a critical role before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for rebuilding strength, mobility, and overall function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we develop personalized recovery plans to ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Affton, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear can vary based on whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery often takes a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery generally requires a longer period, commonly 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Sticking to your physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Affton, MO physical therapists lead you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists provide ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, helping you make consistent progress.

To enhance your recovery, it’s vital to adhere to your exercise regimen, go to every therapy session, and adjust your lifestyle as needed to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with a tear through non-surgical means, our team is committed to ensuring you achieve the best results and get back to your normal routine. We’ll also show you injury prevention techniques so you can stay active and pain-free.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Affton, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists focuses on providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are skilled in helping Affton, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and regain their strength and mobility. We believe in a compassionate, supportive approach, guaranteeing that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our tailored treatment plans are focused on achieving the best possible outcomes and resume the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Affton, MO

If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team create a personalized treatment plan to bring you back to the activities you love. Not sure if it’s a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, so we can evaluate your symptoms and help you determine the best course of action. Call the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Affton.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to supporting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and resuming your everyday activities with confidence. Our expert team provides compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you at every stage. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.