Maryland Heights, MO

Maryland Heights, MO

Call Axes to get back to the activities you love with safe and effective physical therapy treatments.

Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Maryland Heights, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily difficulties that affect your ability to work, exercise, or simply enjoy life. At Axes Physical Therapy, we know how these injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our experienced physical therapy team in Maryland Heights, MO is prepared to provide the personalized plan necessary to regain your strength and mobility. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities that you love most, whether that’s being active, working, playing with your kids, or enjoying a pain-free life.

Feel free to visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule 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 is an important 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.

Rotator Cuff Tear in Maryland Heights, MO | Physical Therapy Near Maryland Heights

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 include:

  1. Partial Tears: This happens when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Though still painful and restrictive, partial tears typically respond well to conservative treatments like physical therapy.
  2. Full-Thickness Tears: With a full-thickness tear, the tendon is separated from the bone, often requiring more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to require surgical intervention. A partial full-thickness tear means there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear is when the tendon completely detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Knowing the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you steer clear of injury or identify the root cause of your symptoms:

  • Acute Injuries: Abrupt, strong movements, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
  • Chronic Degeneration: Over time, continuous strain from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, causing a tear.
  • Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons gradually weaken, raising the likelihood of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Recognizing the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

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 Maryland Heights, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The faster you detect the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. Should you already have a diagnosis by a doctor, we’ll form a team with you and your Maryland Heights, MO physician to provide you with the best possible treatment and outcome available.

Feel free to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We initiate a thorough physical examination to examine your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If required, we may recommend imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound to capture 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 Maryland Heights, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Maryland Heights, MO

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

Maryland Heights, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is often the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists craft individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and minimize pain. Here’s the way physical therapy aids:

  • Strengthening: Specialized exercises to fortify the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
  • Mobility Improvement: Stretching and movement exercises to increase the range of motion and prevent stiffness.
  • Pain Relief: Methods like manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to ease pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Effective pain management is vital for recovery. According to 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 alleviate pain and inflammation, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
  • Activity Modification and Rest: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is essential during the healing process. Our Maryland Heights, 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. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, making it to all your sessions, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are essential for 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 Maryland Heights, MO

When non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is severe, surgery could be 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 surgery 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.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy plays a critical role throughout the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for restoring 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 Maryland Heights, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs according to whether or not you had surgery. For non-surgical treatments, recovery typically takes a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery often requires a longer period, usually 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Maryland Heights, MO physical therapists support you through a tailored rehabilitation program aimed at bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and plan adjustments, ensuring you make steady progress.

To optimize your recovery, it’s vital to do your recommended exercises, make it to all therapy appointments, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is dedicated to guiding you to the best possible recovery and return to your daily life. We’ll also teach you injury prevention techniques so you can continue being active without pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists is committed to providing individualized care designed for each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are experts in assisting Maryland Heights, MO patients overcome rotator cuff tears and regain their strength and mobility. We emphasize a compassionate, supportive approach, working to ensure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our customized treatment plans are designed to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and resume the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Maryland Heights, 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 craft an individualized treatment plan to bring you back to the activities you love. Uncertain if you have a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, where we’ll assess your symptoms and recommend the best path forward. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Maryland Heights.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on supporting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our experienced team offers compassionate, individualized care focused on meeting your unique needs. Whether by means of non-surgical care or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to assist you at every stage. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—reach out to us now to begin your journey to recovery.

Services Offered

Services Offered
  • Physical Therapy
    • Pre/Post Surgical Rehabilitation
    • Acute Injury Management
    • Chronic Injury Management
  • Vestibular Therapy and Post-Concussion Rehabilitation
  • Sports Physical Therapy
  • dorsaVi Video Motion Analysis
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Pediatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Geriatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTYM)
  • Spine Specialty – Manual Therapy Certified
  • Free Injury Screenings
  • Kinesio Taping®
  • Blood Flow Restriction Therapy

Our Team

Shelby Ellis
Front Office
David Grant
MPT, COMT, FAAOMPT

Locations

Begin Your Recovery Today

Injuries and pain shouldn’t keep you from moving and doing the things you love.