Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Ellisville, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily difficulties that disrupt your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize how these injuries can affect your life and mental health. Our expert physical therapy team in Ellisville, MO is prepared to provide the personalized plan you need to feel like your old self again. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities that you love most, whether it’s participating in sports, working, playing with your kids, or just living without pain.

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

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial element of the shoulder’s anatomy, including 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 movements, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

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

1. Partial Tears: This type of tear occurs when the tendon becomes 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: In a full-thickness tear, the tendon becomes detached from the bone, often requiring more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to need surgical intervention. 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?

Understanding the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you avoid 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: With time, repeated stress from activities like painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, resulting in 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

Identifying the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is key to seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, particularly at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
• Shoulder weakness, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, especially when elevating the arm or stretching overhead.
• A crackling sensation or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps clarify why prompt treatment is vital to stop further damage and to restore normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Ellisville, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The faster you identify the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery with conservative treatment. Should you already have a diagnosis by a doctor, we’ll form a team with you and your Ellisville, MO physician to get you the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

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. When needed, we may refer you for imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound to capture a detailed view of the injury.

The Direct Access Physical Therapy laws in both Missouri and Illinois permit us to evaluate and diagnose you, begin your treatment, and conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Ellisville, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Ellisville, MO

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

Ellisville, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists develop individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, increase flexibility, and ease pain. This is how physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to build the muscles that support the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching and movement exercises 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

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

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat increases blood flow and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation, although this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Ellisville, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still keeping some physical activity to support healing.

Consistency is key in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, attending all scheduled sessions, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are essential for recovery. Our team at Axes is dedicated to helping you through the entire process, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Ellisville, MO

In cases where non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options can vary according to the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures may involve:

• 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: Used when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is a key factor both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is vital to regaining strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we design individualized rehab programs to support a smooth and successful recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Ellisville, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear can vary according to whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take 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, slowly returning to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is key to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Ellisville, MO physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program designed to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and plan adjustments, to ensure continuous improvement.

To maximize your recovery, it’s crucial to do your recommended exercises, make it to all therapy appointments, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. If you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with a tear through non-surgical means, our team is focused on supporting you in getting the best outcome and return to your normal activities. We’ll also guide you on injury prevention techniques so you can stay active and pain-free.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of dedicated physical therapists is dedicated to providing customized treatment adapted to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are proficient at helping Ellisville, MO patients bounce back from rotator cuff tears and regain their strength and mobility. We focus on a compassionate, supportive approach, making sure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our tailored treatment plans are focused on achieving the best possible outcomes and return to the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Ellisville, MO

If you’re struggling with a rotator cuff tear, don’t put off starting your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team develop a customized treatment plan to get you back to the activities you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Utilize our free injury screening, where we’ll assess your symptoms and recommend the best path forward. Phone the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Ellisville.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re committed to guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and resuming your everyday activities with confidence. Our skilled team offers compassionate, individualized care focused on meeting your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we are here to help you along your entire journey. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—get in touch with us today to begin your journey to recovery.