Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Peerless Park, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your day-to-day activities. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand how such injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our experienced physical therapy team in Peerless Park, MO is ready to provide the personalized care necessary to regain 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 participating in sports, working, playing with your kids, or just living without pain.

Feel free to come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, request an appointment online, or contact the Axes location nearest you to get started with your recovery.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff forms an important part of the shoulder’s anatomy, comprising four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. They function in unison to stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of motions, like lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

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

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon gets frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears typically respond well to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: During a full-thickness tear, the tendon separates from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to need surgical intervention. A full-thickness incomplete tear occurs when there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A complete full-thickness tear occurs when the tendon fully detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Knowing the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you steer clear of injury or identify problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, repetitive stress from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons tend to 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 plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent shoulder pain, most notably at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Reduced strength in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, particularly when elevating the arm or reaching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy clarifies why prompt treatment is important to avoid further damage and to restore normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Peerless Park, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The earlier you detect the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery with conservative treatment. If you have already been diagnosed by a physician, we’ll partner with you and your Peerless Park, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome possible.

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. If necessary, 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 have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Peerless Park, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Peerless Park, MO

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

Peerless Park, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is commonly the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists craft personalized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, increase flexibility, and ease pain. This is how physical therapy benefits:

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

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Proper pain management is essential 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 boosts circulation and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can 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: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Peerless Park, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still keeping some physical activity to support healing.

Consistency is key in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, showing up for all scheduled appointments, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you at every stage, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Peerless Park, MO

In cases where non-surgical treatments fail to offer enough relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options can vary based on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures consist of:

• Arthroscopy: A less invasive procedure where small instruments are used to repair the tear.
• Open Repair: A traditional surgery for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Required when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

Regardless of the type of surgery, physical therapy is essential both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for regaining 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 Peerless Park, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends depending on whether or not you had surgery. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery generally requires a longer period, usually 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Peerless Park, MO physical therapists assist you through a tailored rehabilitation program focused on bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and plan adjustments, to ensure continuous improvement.

To enhance your recovery, it’s important to follow your prescribed exercises, make it to all therapy appointments, and adjust your lifestyle as needed to protect your shoulder. If 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 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 Peerless Park, MO

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

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Peerless Park, 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 develop a customized treatment plan to bring you back to the activities you love. Not sure if it’s a tear? Take advantage of our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and recommend the best path forward. Call the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Peerless Park.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on assisting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and resuming your everyday activities with confidence. Our experienced team delivers compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we are here to help you at every stage. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—reach out to us now to begin your journey to recovery.