Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Calverton Park, MO. If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand the frustration and discomfort that comes with such injuries. Our experienced physical therapy team in Calverton Park, MO is here to provide the personalized plan you need to restore your strength and mobility. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities that you love most, whether that’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, make an appointment through out website, or call the Axes location nearest you to begin your recovery journey.
Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is an important element 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 provide for a wide range of movements, like lifting, rotating, and reaching.
Types of Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears are classified into different levels of severity, determining treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears comprise:
- Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Even though they are painful and restrictive, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments like physical therapy.
- Full-Thickness Tears: In a full-thickness tear, the tendon detaches from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are often more likely to require surgery. 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 fully detaches from the bone.
What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?
Recognizing the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you steer clear of injury or detect problems early:
- Acute Injuries: Abrupt, strong movements, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
- Chronic Degeneration: As time passes, continuous strain from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, resulting in a tear.
- Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons tend to weaken, increasing the risk of tears, especially in individuals over 40.
Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff
Understanding the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:
- Persistent shoulder pain, particularly at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
- Weakness in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
- Limited range of motion, especially when elevating the arm or reaching 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 to regain normal shoulder function.
Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Calverton Park, 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 with conservative treatment. Should you already have a diagnosis by a physician, we’ll partner with you and your Calverton Park, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome available.
You can also come to any Axes location for a free injury screening. We start with a thorough physical examination to examine your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If necessary, we may refer you for imaging tests including an MRI or ultrasound to obtain 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 have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Calverton Park, MO.
Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Calverton Park, MO
Rotator cuff tears don’t always require surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can effectively alleviate pain and return shoulder function to normal. At Axes Physical Therapy, we emphasize personalized, conservative care that focuses on your specific needs.
Calverton Park, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears
Physical therapy is frequently the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists develop individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, enhance flexibility, and minimize pain. This is how physical therapy benefits:
- Strengthening: Specialized exercises to develop the muscles around the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
- Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to expand the range of motion and minimize stiffness.
- Pain Relief: Techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain.
Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears
Proper pain management is crucial for recovery. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest a combination of:
- Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and soothes muscles.
- Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
- Corticosteroid Injections: For severe symptoms, injections could be used to relieve pain and inflammation, though this is typically a short-term solution.
- Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Calverton Park, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to promote healing.
Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, making it to all your sessions, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is dedicated to helping you at every stage, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.
Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Calverton Park, MO
If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is severe, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options differ according to the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures consist of:
- Arthroscopy: A less invasive procedure where small instruments are used to repair the tear.
- Open Repair: A standard procedure for larger or more complex tears.
- Tendon Transfer: Used 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 is beneficial in strengthening the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary for restoring strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we create customized rehabilitation plans to help ensure a smooth and effective recovery.
Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Calverton Park, MO
Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs depending on whether your injury required surgery or not. 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 typically requires a longer period, commonly 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.
Regular physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Calverton Park, MO physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, ensuring you make steady progress.
To maximize your recovery, it’s crucial to do your recommended exercises, participate in every therapy session, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. If you’re recovering from surgery or treating a tear through non-surgical means, our team is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and return to your normal activities. We’ll also teach you injury prevention techniques so you can stay active and pain-free.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Calverton Park, MO
At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of dedicated physical therapists focuses on providing tailored care focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are proficient at helping Calverton Park, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and restore their strength and mobility. We focus on a compassionate, supportive approach, guaranteeing that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our customized treatment plans are crafted to help you reach the best possible outcomes and go back to doing what you love.
Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Calverton Park, 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 craft an individualized treatment plan to help you return to the activities you enjoy. Not sure if you have a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and recommend the best path forward. Phone the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Calverton Park.
At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re committed to helping you overcome the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and returning to your normal activities with confidence. Our highly trained team gives compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether by means of non-surgical care or post-surgical rehabilitation, we are here to help you along your entire journey. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.