Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Grantwood Village, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you’re likely facing daily challenges that disrupt your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand how such injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our experienced physical therapy team in Grantwood Village, MO is prepared to provide the personalized care you need 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 it’s playing sports, 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 reach out to the Axes location nearest you to get started with your recovery.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff represents an important component 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 enable a wide range of movements, like lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears can vary in severity, impacting treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears include:

1. Partial Tears: This happens when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Though still painful and restrictive, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: A full-thickness tear occurs when, the tendon is separated from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to need surgery. 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 completely detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Being aware of the common causes of rotator cuff tears will help you avoid injury or identify the root cause of your symptoms:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, such as lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, repeated stress from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, 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. Common symptoms include:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, particularly at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, especially when elevating the arm or reaching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

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

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Grantwood Village, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The earlier you identify the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. If you’ve already been diagnosed by a physician, we’ll collaborate with you and your Grantwood Village, MO physician to get you the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

You can also come to 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. When needed, we may suggest 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, begin your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Grantwood Village, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Grantwood Village, MO

Rotator cuff tears do not always necessitate surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can relieve pain effectively and help restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that focuses on your specific needs.

Grantwood Village, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is often the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists create individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and ease pain. This is how physical therapy benefits:

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

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

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

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat increases blood flow and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections might be used to reduce pain and inflammation, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is essential during the healing process. Our Grantwood Village, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to promote healing.

Being consistent is essential 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 committed to supporting you through the entire process, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Grantwood Village, MO

When non-surgical treatments don’t bring adequate relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery might be required. Surgical options can vary based on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures are:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgery where small instruments are used to repair the tear.
• Open Repair: A more conventional surgery 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 essential both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for rebuilding strength, mobility, and overall function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we create customized rehabilitation plans to ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Grantwood Village, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends based on whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery may take a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery usually requires a longer period, typically 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is key to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Grantwood Village, MO physical therapists lead you through a tailored rehabilitation program designed to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists offer ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, helping you make consistent progress.

To optimize your recovery, it’s crucial to do your recommended exercises, go to every therapy session, and make 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 focused on guiding you to the best possible recovery and resume your usual activities. We’ll also show you injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled physical therapists focuses on providing individualized care adapted to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are experts in assisting Grantwood Village, MO patients bounce back from rotator cuff tears and restore 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 personalized treatment plans are focused on achieving the best possible outcomes and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Grantwood Village, MO

If you’re suffering from 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 help you return to the activities you enjoy. Not sure if you have a tear? Take advantage of our free injury screening, so we can evaluate your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Grantwood Village.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to helping you overcome the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and getting back to your daily routine with confidence. Our experienced team delivers compassionate, individualized care crafted to fit your unique needs. Whether by means of non-surgical care or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you along your entire journey. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—get in touch with us today to begin your journey to recovery.