Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Glendale, MO. If you are suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, you are likely facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we know the frustration and discomfort that comes with a rotator cuff injury. Our experienced physical therapy team in Glendale, MO is prepared to provide the personalized plan necessary to regain your strength and mobility. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities that you love most, whether that’s participating in sports, working, spending time with your children, or simply living pain-free.

Feel free to come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, request an appointment through out website, or reach out to the Axes location nearest you to begin your recovery journey.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial part of the shoulder’s anatomy, comprising four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles collaborate to stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of movements, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears differ in severity, and how severe your tear is will direct your treatment approach and recovery timeline. The two main types of tears comprise:

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 like physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: In a full-thickness tear, the tendon detaches from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to need surgical intervention. An incomplete full-thickness tear happens when there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear means the tendon fully detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Understanding the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you avoid injury or spot issues 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 such as painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, the tendons gradually 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 plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Persistent shoulder pain, particularly at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, especially when elevating the arm or reaching above your head.
• A grinding sensation or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps clarify why prompt treatment is essential to avoid further damage and for restoring normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Glendale, 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 with conservative treatment. If you’ve already been diagnosed by a physician, we’ll partner with you and your Glendale, MO physician to get you the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

You are welcome to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We begin with a thorough physical examination to examine your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If needed, we may refer you for imaging tests including an MRI or ultrasound to capture a detailed view of the injury.

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

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Glendale, MO

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

Glendale, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is typically the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists design individualized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, boost flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s why physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Focused exercises to build the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines 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

Effective 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 increases blood flow and soothes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections could be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, though this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Glendale, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to support healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, attending all scheduled sessions, and completing your home exercises are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you through the entire process, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Glendale, MO

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options vary depending on 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 standard procedure for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Required when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

Whatever the surgical approach, physical therapy plays a critical role both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy works to 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 ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Glendale, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies based on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery typically 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 typically requires a longer period, typically 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Glendale, MO physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists provide ongoing support and modifications to your program, ensuring you make steady progress.

To ensure the best recovery, it’s crucial to do your recommended exercises, go to every therapy session, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re healing from surgery or managing a tear through non-surgical means, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible 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 Glendale, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists is dedicated to providing individualized care focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are experts in assisting Glendale, MO patients overcome rotator cuff tears and get back their strength and mobility. We prioritize a compassionate, supportive approach, guaranteeing that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our personalized treatment plans are designed to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and go back to doing what you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Glendale, 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 create a personalized treatment plan to assist you in getting back to what you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Utilize our free injury screening, where we’ll assess your symptoms and help you determine the best course of action. Phone the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Glendale.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted 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 tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether via non-surgical options or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to assist you throughout the process. Don’t let shoulder pain stop you—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.