Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Pevely, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you are likely facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or simply enjoy life. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand how these injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our experienced physical therapy team in Pevely, MO is ready to provide the personalized plan necessary 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 that’s participating in sports, working, engaging in family activities, or enjoying a pain-free life.
You’re welcome to come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule an appointment through out website, or contact the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.
About Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is 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 provide for a wide range of actions, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.
Types of Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears vary in severity, determining treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears are:
- Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears typically respond well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
- Full-Thickness Tears: In a full-thickness tear, the tendon detaches from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to need surgical intervention. An incomplete full-thickness tear happens 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.
What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?
Being aware of the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you prevent 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: As time passes, continuous strain from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, resulting in a tear.
- Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, 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 key to seeking timely treatment. Typical symptoms may include:
- Continuous shoulder discomfort, especially at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
- Reduced strength in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
- Reduced mobility, notably when lifting the arm or stretching overhead.
- A crunching feeling or audible popping when moving the shoulder.
Understanding these symptoms and the underlying anatomy explains why prompt treatment is vital to stop further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.
Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Pevely, 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 with conservative treatment. If you’ve already been diagnosed by a physician, we’ll form a team with you and your Pevely, MO doctor to ensure you receive 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. If necessary, we may recommend 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 allow us to evaluate and diagnose you, begin your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Pevely, MO.
Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Pevely, MO
Rotator cuff tears do not always necessitate surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can effectively alleviate pain and restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that addresses your specific needs.
Pevely, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears
Physical therapy is typically the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists design individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, boost flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s how physical therapy aids:
- Strengthening: Focused exercises to build the muscles that support the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
- Mobility Improvement: Flexibility and motion 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
Proper pain management is important for recovery. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest a combination of:
- Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice helps reduce 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: For severe symptoms, injections could be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, although this is typically a short-term solution.
- Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is essential during the healing process. Our Pevely, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to support healing.
Being consistent is essential 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 at every stage, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.
Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Pevely, MO
If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options are different 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: Performed when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.
No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is a key factor both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy works to strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is vital to regaining strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we develop personalized recovery plans to help ensure a smooth and effective recovery.
Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Pevely, MO
Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies according to whether or not you had surgery. For non-surgical treatments, recovery typically takes anywhere from 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, generally 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.
Consistent physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Pevely, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program focused on restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists provide ongoing support and plan adjustments, helping you make consistent progress.
To optimize your recovery, it’s essential to adhere to your exercise regimen, attend all therapy sessions, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with 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 show you injury prevention techniques so you can remain active without pain.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Pevely, MO
At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled physical therapists focuses on providing customized treatment focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are experts in assisting Pevely, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and restore their strength and mobility. We emphasize a compassionate, supportive approach, ensuring that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our individualized treatment plans are focused on achieving the best possible outcomes and get back to the activities you enjoy.
Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Pevely, MO
If you’re struggling with a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start 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, where 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 Pevely.
At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and returning to your normal activities with confidence. Our expert team provides compassionate, individualized care crafted to fit your unique needs. Whether with non-surgical therapy or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to support you at every stage. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—contact us today to begin your journey to recovery.
