Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Desoto, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you’re probably facing daily difficulties that affect your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your day-to-day activities. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand how these injuries can affect your life and mental health. Our experienced physical therapy team in Desoto, MO is prepared to provide the personalized care necessary to feel like your old self again. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return 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, schedule an appointment through out website, or contact 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. Together, these muscles stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate a wide range of motions, like 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 comprise:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: With a full-thickness tear, the tendon is separated from the bone, often requiring more intensive treatment. These tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to need surgical intervention. 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 completely detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Recognizing the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you avoid injury or identify problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, such as lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, repeated stress from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons gradually 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 key to seeking timely treatment. Typical symptoms may include:

• Continuous shoulder discomfort, particularly 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 elevating the arm or reaching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

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

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Desoto, 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 partner with you and your Desoto, MO physician to get you the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

You are welcome to visit 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. When needed, we may suggest 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 permit us to evaluate and diagnose you, start your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Desoto, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Desoto, MO

Rotator cuff tears aren’t always surgical cases; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can effectively alleviate pain and return shoulder function to normal. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that addresses your specific needs.

Desoto, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is commonly the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists design personalized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, boost flexibility, and alleviate pain. This is how physical therapy assists:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to fortify the muscles that support the rotator cuff, helping to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines 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 vital for recovery. According to the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice helps reduce inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections could be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Desoto, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to aid in recovery.

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

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Desoto, MO

When non-surgical treatments fail to offer enough relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery may 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 traditional surgery for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Needed when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.

Whatever the surgical approach, physical therapy plays a critical role before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary for regaining 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 Desoto, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies based on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery often takes weeks to months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery typically requires a longer period, generally 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Desoto, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program focused on restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists offer ongoing support and plan adjustments, to ensure continuous improvement.

To maximize your recovery, it’s crucial to adhere to your exercise regimen, attend all therapy sessions, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re healing from surgery or managing a tear through non-surgical means, our team is committed to supporting you in getting the best outcome and resume your usual 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 Desoto, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of dedicated physical therapists specializes in providing individualized care designed for each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Desoto, MO patients heal from rotator cuff tears and regain their strength and mobility. We believe in a compassionate, supportive approach, making sure 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 Desoto, 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 develop a customized treatment plan to assist you in getting back to what you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and help you determine the best course of action. Phone the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Desoto.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re committed to helping you overcome the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our highly trained team delivers 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 every step of the way. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—reach out to us now to begin your journey to recovery.