Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Dellwood, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily challenges that impact 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 these injuries. Our experienced physical therapy team in Dellwood, MO is here to provide the personalized care necessary to regain your strength and mobility. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities you enjoy, whether it’s playing sports, working, engaging in family activities, or simply living pain-free.

You’re welcome to visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, make an appointment online, or call the Axes location nearest you to get started with your recovery.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial element of the shoulder’s anatomy, made up of four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. Together, these muscles 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 degrees 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 gets frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears typically respond well 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 need surgery. A partial full-thickness tear means there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear is when the tendon fully detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Understanding the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you steer clear of injury or identify problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Abrupt, strong movements, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, may result in an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, repetitive stress from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons tend to weaken, heightening the chance of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Recognizing the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is essential for seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Continuous shoulder discomfort, particularly at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it difficult to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, notably when lifting the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crunching feeling or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Being aware of these symptoms and the underlying anatomy explains why prompt treatment is important to avoid further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Dellwood, MO

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

You can also visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We initiate a thorough physical examination to assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If required, we may refer you for 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 enable us to evaluate and diagnose you, start your treatment, and perform several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Dellwood, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Dellwood, MO

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

Dellwood, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists design individualized treatment plans to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder, boost flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s why physical therapy benefits:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to develop the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching and movement exercises to enhance the range of motion and minimize stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Approaches including manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Effective pain management is essential for recovery. According to the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice helps reduce inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and soothes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections might be used to relieve pain and inflammation, though this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is essential during the healing process. Our Dellwood, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to support healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Following your physical therapy plan, making it to all your sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you at every stage, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Dellwood, MO

When non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is more serious, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options vary based 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 traditional surgery for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Performed when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is crucial before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy is beneficial in strengthening the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for restoring strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we develop personalized recovery plans to help ensure a smooth and effective recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Dellwood, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends based on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery often 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, typically 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

Sticking to your physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Dellwood, MO physical therapists assist you through a tailored rehabilitation program focused on bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and plan adjustments, helping you make consistent progress.

To enhance your recovery, it’s crucial to adhere to your exercise regimen, attend all therapy sessions, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re healing from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is dedicated to guiding you to the best possible recovery and return to your normal activities. We’ll also guide you on injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

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

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

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Dellwood, MO

If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear, don’t hesitate to begin your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team develop a customized treatment plan to bring you back to the activities you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Utilize 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 Dellwood.

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 skilled team provides compassionate, individualized care focused on meeting 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—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.