Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Earth City, 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 know the frustration and discomfort that comes with these injuries. Our experienced physical therapy team in Earth City, MO is here to provide the personalized plan you need 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 being active, working, playing with your kids, or just living without pain.

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

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff forms a crucial part of the shoulder’s anatomy, including four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. They function in unison to stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate a wide range of motions, like lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears differ in severity, impacting treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears are:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon is frayed or damaged but not completely severed. While still painful and limiting, partial tears typically 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 injuries may cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are often more likely to necessitate surgical intervention. 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 completely detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

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

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, repeated stress from activities like painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, the tendons tend to weaken, heightening the chance of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Understanding the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, most notably at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it difficult to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, especially when raising the arm or stretching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Being aware of these symptoms and the underlying anatomy clarifies why prompt treatment is crucial to stop further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Earth City, 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 with conservative treatment. If you’ve already been diagnosed by a doctor, we’ll collaborate with you and your Earth City, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

You can also visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We begin with a thorough physical examination to assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. When needed, 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 permit us to evaluate and diagnose you, initiate your treatment, and perform several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Earth City, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Earth City, MO

Rotator cuff tears don’t always require surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can effectively alleviate pain and help restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we prioritize personalized, conservative care that focuses on your specific needs.

Earth City, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is often the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists craft individualized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, increase flexibility, and reduce pain. This is how physical therapy aids:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to build the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to expand 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

Managing pain effectively is vital for recovery. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and soothes muscles.
• 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: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Earth City, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to support healing.

Staying consistent is vital in non-surgical treatment. Following your physical therapy plan, showing up for all scheduled appointments, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you every step of the way, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Earth City, MO

When non-surgical treatments don’t bring adequate relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is more serious, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options are different depending 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: Required when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is crucial throughout the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy helps 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 ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Earth City, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies according to whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery typically takes a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery typically requires a longer period, usually 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is essential to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Earth City, MO physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program focused on restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and modifications to your program, ensuring you make steady progress.

To optimize your recovery, it’s important to stick to your prescribed exercises, attend all therapy sessions, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing a tear through non-surgical means, our team is focused on ensuring you achieve the best results 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 Earth City, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists focuses on providing tailored care adapted to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are proficient at helping Earth City, MO patients overcome rotator cuff tears and restore their strength and mobility. We focus on a compassionate, supportive approach, guaranteeing that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our personalized treatment plans are intended to bring about the best possible outcomes and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Earth City, MO

If you are dealing with a rotator cuff tear, don’t delay 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 it’s a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, where we’ll assess your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Earth City.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re committed to assisting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and resuming your everyday activities with confidence. Our highly trained team gives 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 keep you from living fully—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.