Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Fairview Heights, IL. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily difficulties that impact your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your day-to-day activities. At Axes Physical Therapy, we know how a rotator cuff injury can affect your life and well-being. Our expert physical therapy team in Fairview Heights, IL is here to provide the personalized care necessary to restore your strength and mobility. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you enjoy, whether that’s being active, working, spending time with your children, or just living without pain.

You’re welcome to visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule an appointment through out website, or call the Axes location nearest you to begin your recovery journey.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff represents a crucial part of the shoulder’s anatomy, consisting of four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder joint and enable 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, determining treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears are:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears typically respond well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: A full-thickness tear occurs when, the tendon becomes detached from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to necessitate 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.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Recognizing the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you steer clear of injury or recognize issues sooner:

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, continuous strain from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, resulting in a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, the tendons tend to weaken, increasing the risk of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Recognizing the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is key to seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms 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.
• Restricted movement, particularly when elevating the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crunching feeling or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Understanding these symptoms and the underlying anatomy explains why prompt treatment is important to prevent further damage and to restore normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Fairview Heights, IL

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 with conservative treatment. Should you already have a diagnosis by a physician, we’ll collaborate with you and your Fairview Heights, IL physician to provide you with the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

You are welcome to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We initiate a thorough physical examination to evaluate your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If necessary, we may recommend imaging tests such as 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, initiate your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Fairview Heights, IL.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Fairview Heights, IL

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

Fairview Heights, IL Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists create individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, increase flexibility, and ease pain. Here’s how physical therapy benefits:

• Strengthening: Focused exercises to develop the muscles around the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to expand the range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

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

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections might be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, though this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Fairview Heights, IL physical therapists will guide you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still keeping some physical activity to aid in recovery.

Consistency is key in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, attending all scheduled sessions, and completing your home exercises are essential for recovery. Our team at Axes is dedicated to helping you every step of the way, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Fairview Heights, IL

When non-surgical treatments aren’t effective enough, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options vary according to the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures consist of:

• Arthroscopy: A less 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 reattach to the bone.

Regardless of the type of surgery, physical therapy is crucial both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy is beneficial in strengthening the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary for regaining 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 Fairview Heights, IL

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends according to whether or not you had surgery. 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 often requires a longer period, generally 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Fairview Heights, IL physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program aimed at restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists give ongoing support and plan adjustments, to ensure continuous improvement.

To enhance your recovery, it’s vital to stick to your prescribed exercises, participate in every therapy session, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you are recovering from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is focused on supporting you in getting the best outcome and resume your usual activities. We’ll also teach you injury prevention techniques so you can remain active without pain.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Fairview Heights, IL

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of dedicated physical therapists focuses on providing tailored care focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are experts in assisting Fairview Heights, IL patients bounce back from rotator cuff tears and regain their strength and mobility. We emphasize a compassionate, supportive approach, making sure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our personalized treatment plans are crafted to help you reach the best possible outcomes and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Fairview Heights, IL

If you’re struggling with a rotator cuff tear, don’t delay your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team craft an individualized treatment plan to bring 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. Contact the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Fairview Heights.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to assisting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and getting back to your daily routine with confidence. Our highly trained team gives compassionate, individualized care crafted to fit your unique needs. Whether with non-surgical therapy or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to assist you throughout the process. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.