Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Benton Park West, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily challenges that disrupt your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your day-to-day activities. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the frustration and discomfort that comes with such injuries. Our expert physical therapy team in Benton Park West, MO is here to provide the personalized care necessary 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 that’s being active, working, spending time with your children, or enjoying a pain-free life.

You’re welcome to come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule an appointment online, or call the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is an important part of the shoulder’s anatomy, including four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. They function in unison to stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of actions, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are classified into different degrees of severity, affecting treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears comprise:

1. Partial Tears: This type of tear occurs when the tendon gets frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears typically respond well to conservative treatments like physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: A full-thickness tear occurs when, the tendon is separated from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to necessitate surgical intervention. A partial full-thickness tear means there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A complete full-thickness tear occurs when the tendon completely detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Knowing the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you prevent injury or spot issues early:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, repeated stress from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons gradually weaken, raising the likelihood of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Understanding the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is crucial to seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:

• Persistent shoulder pain, particularly at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Shoulder weakness, making it difficult to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, especially when raising the arm or stretching overhead.
• A grinding sensation or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Recognizing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy clarifies why prompt treatment is crucial to avoid further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Benton Park West, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The faster you recognize 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 Benton Park West, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

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

The Direct Access Physical Therapy laws in both Missouri and Illinois permit us to evaluate and diagnose you, initiate your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Benton Park West, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Benton Park West, MO

Rotator cuff tears don’t always require surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments are effective at alleviating pain and return shoulder function to normal. At Axes Physical Therapy, we prioritize personalized, conservative care that targets your specific needs.

Benton Park West, 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, boost flexibility, and minimize pain. Here’s why physical therapy assists:

• Strengthening: Focused exercises to build the muscles around the rotator cuff, preventing 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 vital for recovery. According to the severity of your symptoms, we may advise a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice helps reduce inflammation, while heat increases blood flow and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections may be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, though this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Benton Park West, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to modify daily activities to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to support healing.

Consistency is key 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 here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Benton Park West, MO

In cases where non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is severe, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options can vary depending on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures are:

• 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 is essential before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy helps strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for restoring strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we design individualized rehab programs to help ensure a smooth and effective recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Benton Park West, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies according to whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery usually requires a longer period, generally 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Benton Park West, MO physical therapists lead you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists give ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, ensuring you make steady progress.

To optimize your recovery, it’s crucial to adhere to your exercise regimen, attend all therapy sessions, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. If you’re recovering from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is committed to ensuring you achieve the best results and resume your usual activities. We’ll also instruct you in injury prevention techniques so you can continue being active without pain.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Benton Park West, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled physical therapists is dedicated to providing individualized care adapted to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are skilled in helping Benton Park West, MO patients bounce back from rotator cuff tears and restore their strength and mobility. We prioritize a compassionate, supportive approach, making sure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our tailored treatment plans are crafted to help you reach the best possible outcomes and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Benton Park West, MO

When you’re facing a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team design a tailored treatment plan to get you back to the activities you love. Uncertain if you have a tear? Utilize our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and help you determine the best course of action. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Benton Park West.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on helping you overcome the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and getting back to your daily routine with confidence. Our expert team offers compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether with non-surgical therapy or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you along your entire journey. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—get in touch with us today to begin your journey to recovery.