Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Lake St. Louis, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily difficulties that impact your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the frustration and discomfort that comes with these injuries. Our experienced physical therapy team in Lake St. Louis, MO is prepared to provide the personalized care you need to recover your strength and mobility. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities you enjoy, whether it’s being active, working, spending time with your children, or simply living pain-free.

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

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial part of the shoulder’s anatomy, made up of 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 actions, like 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 include:

1. Partial Tears: This type of tear occurs when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Even though they are painful and restrictive, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments like physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: A full-thickness tear occurs when, the tendon detaches from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are often more likely to require surgery. A partial full-thickness tear means 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 steer clear of injury or identify problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, may result in an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, repetitive stress from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, resulting in a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons gradually weaken, raising the likelihood of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Understanding the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is key to seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Continuous shoulder discomfort, particularly at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, particularly when lifting the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crackling sensation or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps explain why prompt treatment is essential to prevent further damage and to regain normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Lake St. Louis, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The faster you identify the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. If you have already been diagnosed by a doctor, we’ll partner with you and your Lake St. Louis, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome available.

You are welcome to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We begin with a thorough physical examination to assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If required, we may suggest imaging tests like 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, start your treatment, and perform several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Lake St. Louis, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Lake St. Louis, MO

Rotator cuff tears don’t always require surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments are effective at alleviating pain and help restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that targets your specific needs.

Lake St. Louis, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is typically the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists create personalized treatment plans to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder, boost flexibility, and ease pain. This is how physical therapy aids:

• Strengthening: Focused exercises to develop the muscles that support the rotator cuff, helping to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to enhance the range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Methods like manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Effective pain management is crucial 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 increases blood flow and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective at reducing pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections could be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, although this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is essential during the healing process. Our Lake St. Louis, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to aid in recovery.

Staying consistent is vital in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, attending all scheduled sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you throughout your journey, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Lake St. Louis, MO

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is severe, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options can vary based on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures may involve:

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

Whatever the surgical approach, physical therapy is crucial throughout the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy works to strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is vital to 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 Lake St. Louis, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear can vary according to whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take a few weeks to several 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.

Sticking to your physical therapy is essential to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Lake St. Louis, MO physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists offer ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, ensuring you make steady progress.

To enhance your recovery, it’s important to adhere to your exercise regimen, go to every therapy session, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. If you’re recovering from surgery or managing a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to supporting you in getting the best outcome and return to your normal 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 Lake St. Louis, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of expert physical therapists is dedicated to providing customized treatment focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Lake St. Louis, MO patients heal from rotator cuff tears and get back 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 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 Lake St. Louis, 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 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. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Lake St. Louis.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re committed to supporting 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 focused on meeting your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we are here to help 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.