Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Maplewood, MO. When you are suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or be able to relax pain-free. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the frustration and discomfort that comes with these injuries. Our expert physical therapy team in Maplewood, MO is prepared to provide the personalized care you need to feel like your old self again. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you enjoy, whether it’s participating in sports, working, engaging in family activities, or just living without pain.

Feel free to visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, request an appointment online, or contact the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff represents a crucial element 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 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, 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 is frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Even though they are painful and restrictive, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: With a full-thickness tear, the tendon detaches from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to require surgical intervention. A full-thickness incomplete tear occurs 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.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

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

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, for example, 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 wear down the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, 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 essential for seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:

• Persistent shoulder pain, especially at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it difficult to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, notably when raising the arm or reaching above your head.
• A grinding sensation or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Being aware of these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps explain why prompt treatment is essential to stop further damage and to restore normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Maplewood, 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 physician, we’ll partner with you and your Maplewood, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

Feel free to visit 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. When needed, we may refer you for imaging tests including 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 conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Maplewood, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Maplewood, MO

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

Maplewood, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists develop personalized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, enhance flexibility, and minimize pain. Here’s the way physical therapy benefits:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to fortify the muscles that support the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to expand the range of motion and minimize stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Approaches including manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Managing pain effectively is vital for recovery. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective at reducing pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections might be used to reduce 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 Maplewood, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to aid in recovery.

Being consistent is essential 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 committed to supporting you at every stage, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Maplewood, MO

When non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options can vary according to the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures are:

• Arthroscopy: A less 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 reattach to the bone.

Whatever the surgical approach, physical therapy is crucial throughout the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy is beneficial in strengthening the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for restoring strength, mobility, and 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 Maplewood, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies based on whether or not you had surgery. For non-surgical treatments, recovery may take weeks to 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 key to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Maplewood, MO physical therapists assist you through a tailored rehabilitation program designed to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists provide ongoing support and plan adjustments, to ensure continuous improvement.

To optimize your recovery, it’s important to stick to your prescribed exercises, make it to all therapy appointments, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or treating a tear through non-surgical means, our team is committed to ensuring you achieve the best results and return to your normal activities. We’ll also guide you on injury prevention techniques so you can remain active without pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled 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 Maplewood, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and rebuild their strength and mobility. We prioritize a compassionate, supportive approach, making sure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our customized treatment plans are intended to bring about the best possible outcomes and return to the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Maplewood, MO

When you’re facing a rotator cuff tear, don’t delay your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team develop a customized treatment plan to assist you in getting back to what you love. Not sure if it’s a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, so we can evaluate your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Call the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Maplewood.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to assisting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our highly trained team offers compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether by means of non-surgical care or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to assist 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.