Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Crestwood, MO. If you are suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily difficulties that disrupt your ability to work, exercise, or be able to relax pain-free. At Axes Physical Therapy, we know how these injuries can affect your life and mental health. Our experienced physical therapy team in Crestwood, MO is prepared to provide the personalized care necessary to recover your strength and mobility. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you enjoy, whether that’s participating in sports, working, engaging in family activities, or just living without pain.

Feel free to come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule an appointment through out website, or call the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.

Understanding 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 movements, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are classified into different levels of severity, influencing treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears include:

1. Partial Tears: This happens when the tendon is 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 detaches from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are often more likely to necessitate surgical intervention. A full-thickness incomplete tear occurs when there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear means the tendon fully detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Understanding the common causes of rotator cuff tears may help you avoid injury or identify the root cause of your symptoms:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, continuous strain from activities including painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, the tendons naturally 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 is essential for seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, particularly at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, especially when raising the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crunching feeling or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

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

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Crestwood, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The earlier you recognize the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery with conservative treatment. If you’ve already been diagnosed by a doctor, we’ll form a team with you and your Crestwood, MO doctor to get you the best possible treatment and outcome possible.

You are welcome to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We begin with a thorough physical examination to check your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If needed, we may recommend 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, initiate your treatment, and conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Crestwood, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Crestwood, MO

Rotator cuff tears do not always necessitate 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.

Crestwood, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is often the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists craft individualized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, boost flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s the way physical therapy benefits:

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

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Proper pain management is important for recovery. Based on the severity of your symptoms, we may propose a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat increases blood flow and eases muscle tension.
• 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, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Crestwood, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to support healing.

Consistency is crucial in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, making it to all your sessions, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you throughout your journey, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Crestwood, MO

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options are different depending on 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 more conventional surgery for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Used when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy plays a critical role throughout the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy helps strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is vital to 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 Crestwood, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends based on whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery may take anywhere from 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, generally 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Sticking to your physical therapy is essential to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Crestwood, MO physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program aimed at bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists provide ongoing support and modifications to your program, ensuring you make steady progress.

To maximize your recovery, it’s essential to stick to your prescribed exercises, make it to all therapy appointments, and adjust your lifestyle as needed to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re healing from surgery or dealing with a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to ensuring you achieve the best results and return to your daily life. 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 Crestwood, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of expert physical therapists specializes in providing personalized care adapted to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Crestwood, MO patients heal from rotator cuff tears and regain 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 focused on achieving the best possible outcomes and return to the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Crestwood, MO

If you’re struggling with a rotator cuff tear, don’t hesitate to begin 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 you have a tear? Make use of our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Phone the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Crestwood.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to helping you overcome the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and resuming your everyday activities with confidence. Our expert team offers compassionate, individualized care crafted to fit your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—get in touch with us today to begin your journey to recovery.