Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Fenton, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily difficulties that affect your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your day-to-day activities. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand the frustration and discomfort that comes with a rotator cuff injury. Our experienced physical therapy team in Fenton, MO is prepared to provide the personalized plan you need 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 being active, working, engaging in family activities, or enjoying a pain-free life.

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

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is an important element of the shoulder’s anatomy, comprising four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. Together, these muscles stabilize the shoulder joint and provide for a wide range of movements, like lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears vary in severity, affecting 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. While still painful and limiting, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: During a full-thickness tear, the tendon becomes detached from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to require surgical intervention. A full-thickness incomplete tear occurs when 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?

Being aware of the common causes of rotator cuff tears will help you steer clear of injury or identify problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, may result in an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: As time passes, repetitive stress from activities like painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons tend to weaken, heightening the chance of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Recognizing the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is essential for seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:

• Continuous shoulder discomfort, most notably at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it difficult to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, particularly when raising the arm or reaching overhead.
• A grinding sensation or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

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

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Fenton, MO

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

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. If needed, we may suggest imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound to obtain 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 perform several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Fenton, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Fenton, MO

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

Fenton, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is typically the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists develop individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and ease pain. Here’s how physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to build the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, helping to prevent 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 reduce pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Effective pain management is vital for recovery. Based on the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections could be used to relieve 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 Fenton, MO physical therapists will guide you on how to modify daily activities to avoid strain, while still keeping some physical activity to promote healing.

Consistency is key in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, making it to all your sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is dedicated to helping you throughout your journey, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Fenton, MO

If non-surgical treatments fail to offer enough relief, 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 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.

Regardless of the type of surgery, 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 essential for rebuilding strength, mobility, and overall 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 Fenton, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends depending on 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 often requires a longer period, generally 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Fenton, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program designed to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists provide ongoing support and plan adjustments, ensuring you make steady progress.

To optimize your recovery, it’s important to stick to your prescribed exercises, participate in every therapy session, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or treating a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to guiding you to the best possible recovery and return to your normal activities. We’ll also guide you on injury prevention techniques so you can continue being active without pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled 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 Fenton, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and restore 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 designed to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and return to the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Fenton, MO

If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear, don’t hesitate to begin 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 if you have a tear? Utilize our free injury screening, where we’ll assess your symptoms and guide you toward the best course of action. Call the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Fenton.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and returning to your normal activities with confidence. Our expert team delivers compassionate, individualized care crafted to fit your unique needs. Whether with non-surgical therapy or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you throughout the process. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—get in touch with us today to begin your journey to recovery.