Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Chesterfield, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily difficulties 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 these injuries. Our experienced physical therapy team in Chesterfield, MO is ready to provide the personalized care you need to feel like your old self again. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you love, whether it’s participating in sports, working, engaging in family activities, or just living without pain.

You can come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, make an appointment online, or contact the Axes location nearest you to get started with your recovery.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff represents a crucial component of the shoulder’s anatomy, consisting of 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 levels of severity, and how severe your tear is will direct your treatment approach and recovery timeline. The two main types of tears include:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: During a full-thickness tear, the tendon detaches from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. These tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are often more likely to necessitate surgical intervention. An incomplete full-thickness tear happens when there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear is when the tendon completely detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Recognizing the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you steer clear of injury or spot issues early:

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, such as lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, repetitive stress from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, the tendons gradually weaken, raising the likelihood of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Identifying the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, especially at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, notably when lifting the arm or stretching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

Recognizing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps clarify why prompt treatment is vital to prevent further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Chesterfield, 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. Should you already have a diagnosis by a doctor, we’ll partner with you and your Chesterfield, MO physician to provide you with the best possible treatment and outcome possible.

You can also come to 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 refer you for imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound to obtain a detailed view of the injury.

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

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Chesterfield, MO

Rotator cuff tears do not always necessitate surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can effectively alleviate pain and help restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that targets your specific needs.

Chesterfield, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is often the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists develop individualized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, increase flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s why physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to fortify the muscles around the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching and movement exercises to increase the range of motion and reduce stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Approaches including manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to ease pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Managing pain effectively is crucial for recovery. Based on the severity of your symptoms, we may advise a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice helps reduce inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective at reducing pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For severe symptoms, injections could be used to relieve pain and inflammation, although this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Chesterfield, MO physical therapists will guide you on how to modify daily activities to avoid strain, while still keeping some physical activity to promote healing.

Consistency is crucial in non-surgical treatment. Following your physical therapy plan, attending all scheduled sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you throughout your journey, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Chesterfield, MO

If non-surgical treatments fail to offer enough relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is more serious, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options can vary based 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 reattach to the bone.

Regardless of the type of surgery, physical therapy is crucial throughout the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy works to strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for restoring strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we create customized rehabilitation plans to support a smooth and successful recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Chesterfield, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs based on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery often requires a longer period, commonly 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

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

To optimize your recovery, it’s crucial to stick to your prescribed exercises, participate in every therapy session, and adjust your lifestyle as needed to protect your shoulder. Whether you are recovering from surgery or managing a tear through non-surgical means, our team is focused on guiding you to the best possible recovery and return to your normal activities. We’ll also instruct you in injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced 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 proficient at helping Chesterfield, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and get back their strength and mobility. We prioritize a compassionate, supportive approach, making sure 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 get back to the activities you enjoy.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Chesterfield, MO

If you are dealing with a rotator cuff tear, don’t put off starting your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team design a tailored treatment plan to help you return to the activities you enjoy. Not sure if it’s a tear? Take advantage of our free injury screening, so we can evaluate your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Contact the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Chesterfield.

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 by means of non-surgical care or post-surgical rehabilitation, we are here to help you throughout the process. Don’t let shoulder pain stop you—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.