Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Glen Carbon, IL. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily challenges 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 such injuries. Our expert physical therapy team in Glen Carbon, IL is ready to provide the personalized plan necessary to recover your strength and mobility. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities that you love most, whether that’s participating in sports, working, playing with your kids, or simply living pain-free.

You’re welcome to visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, make an appointment online, or reach out to the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.

Understanding 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 collaborate to 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 are classified into different levels of severity, determining treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears include:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. While still painful and limiting, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: A full-thickness tear occurs when, the tendon separates from the bone, often requiring more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to require surgery. 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

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

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, continuous strain from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons naturally 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. Typical symptoms may include:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, especially at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Shoulder weakness, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, notably when lifting the arm or reaching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

Understanding these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps clarify why prompt treatment is vital to avoid further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Glen Carbon, IL

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 without invasive procedures. If you have already been diagnosed by a doctor, we’ll collaborate with you and your Glen Carbon, IL doctor to provide you with the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

You can also come to any Axes location for a free injury screening. We begin with a thorough physical examination to evaluate your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If 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, initiate your treatment, and perform several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Glen Carbon, IL.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Glen Carbon, IL

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

Glen Carbon, IL Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

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

• Strengthening: Focused exercises to fortify the muscles around the rotator cuff, helping to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching and movement exercises to expand the range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Approaches including 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: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective at reducing pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections could be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, although this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Glen Carbon, IL physical therapists will guide you on how to modify daily activities to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to aid in recovery.

Consistency is key in non-surgical treatment. Following your physical therapy plan, making it to all your sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are essential for recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you every step of the way, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Glen Carbon, IL

In cases where non-surgical treatments aren’t effective enough, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options are different based on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures are:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure where small instruments are used to repair the tear.
• Open Repair: A standard procedure for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Performed when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is a key factor before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical 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 Glen Carbon, IL

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs according to whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery generally requires a longer period, commonly 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 Glen Carbon, IL physical therapists lead you through a tailored rehabilitation program aimed at bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, helping you make consistent progress.

To optimize your recovery, it’s important to follow your prescribed exercises, go to every therapy session, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. If you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with a tear through non-surgical means, our team is committed to guiding you to the best possible recovery and resume your usual activities. We’ll also teach you injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Glen Carbon, IL

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of dedicated physical therapists is committed to providing personalized care designed for each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are skilled in helping Glen Carbon, IL patients overcome rotator cuff tears and restore their strength and mobility. We focus on a compassionate, supportive approach, working to ensure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our tailored 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 Glen Carbon, IL

When you’re facing a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start 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 you have a tear? Utilize our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and guide you toward the best course of action. Contact the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Glen Carbon.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re committed to guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our highly trained team provides compassionate, individualized care focused on meeting your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from living fully—reach out to us now to begin your journey to recovery.