Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Des Peres, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you’re probably facing daily difficulties that disrupt your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the frustration and discomfort that comes with such injuries. Our expert physical therapy team in Des Peres, MO is here to provide the personalized plan necessary to regain your strength and mobility. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities that you love most, whether that’s playing sports, working, spending time with your children, or just living without pain.

You can visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule an appointment online, or reach out to the Axes location nearest you to begin your recovery journey.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial element of the shoulder’s anatomy, comprising four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder joint and provide for a wide range of actions, like lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

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

1. Partial Tears: This happens when the tendon gets frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: In a full-thickness tear, the tendon is separated from the bone, often requiring more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are often more likely to necessitate surgery. An incomplete full-thickness tear happens when 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?

Being aware of the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you prevent injury or detect problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, such as lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, may result in an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: As time passes, repeated stress from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons naturally weaken, increasing the risk of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Identifying the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is essential for seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent shoulder pain, most notably at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
• Reduced strength in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, especially when raising the arm or stretching overhead.
• A crackling sensation or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy explains why prompt treatment is vital to stop further damage and for restoring normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Des Peres, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The earlier you detect the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. Should you already have a diagnosis by a physician, we’ll collaborate with you and your Des Peres, MO physician to provide you with the best possible treatment and outcome available.

Feel free to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We initiate a thorough physical examination to examine 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 enable us to evaluate and diagnose you, begin your treatment, and conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Des Peres, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Des Peres, MO

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

Des Peres, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is commonly the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists craft personalized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, enhance flexibility, and alleviate pain. Here’s why physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to fortify the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Flexibility and motion 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

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

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective at reducing pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections may be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is essential during the healing process. Our Des Peres, MO physical therapists will guide you on how to modify daily activities to avoid strain, while still keeping some physical activity to support healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, attending all scheduled sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are important for 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 Des Peres, MO

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options differ based on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures consist of:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgery 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.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is essential both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for regaining strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we develop personalized recovery plans to ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Des Peres, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies depending on whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery typically requires a longer period, typically 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

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

To optimize your recovery, it’s crucial to adhere to your exercise regimen, make it to all therapy appointments, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re healing from surgery or treating a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to ensuring you achieve the best results and return to your normal activities. We’ll also instruct you in injury prevention techniques so you can stay active and pain-free.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of expert physical therapists is dedicated to providing personalized care designed for each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Des Peres, MO patients heal from rotator cuff tears and rebuild their strength and mobility. We emphasize a compassionate, supportive approach, working to ensure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our customized treatment plans are intended to bring about the best possible outcomes and return to the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Des Peres, MO

If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start 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, where we’ll assess 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 Des Peres.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and getting back to your daily routine with confidence. Our expert team provides 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—reach out to us now to begin your journey to recovery.