Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Shrewsbury, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily challenges that impact your ability to work, exercise, or simply enjoy life. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize how a rotator cuff injury can affect your life and well-being. Our expert physical therapy team in Shrewsbury, MO is ready 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 love, whether it’s being active, working, engaging in family activities, or simply living pain-free.

You can visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule an appointment online, or call the Axes location nearest you to begin your recovery journey.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial element 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 facilitate a wide range of actions, including lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears 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: This happens when the tendon gets frayed or damaged but not completely severed. While still painful and limiting, partial tears often 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 demanding more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to need 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 fully detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Understanding the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you avoid injury or recognize issues sooner:

• 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, continuous strain from activities like painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, causing 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

Identifying the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is crucial to seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, most notably at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, especially when raising the arm or stretching overhead.
• A grinding sensation or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

Recognizing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy explains why prompt treatment is vital to prevent further damage and for restoring normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Shrewsbury, MO

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

You can also visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We begin with a thorough physical examination to examine your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If necessary, we may suggest imaging tests including 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 conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Shrewsbury, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Shrewsbury, MO

Rotator cuff tears do not always necessitate surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can relieve pain effectively and restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that focuses on your specific needs.

Shrewsbury, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists develop personalized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s how physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to build the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Flexibility and motion exercises to expand the range of motion and minimize 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 vital for recovery. Based on the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat increases blood flow and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections might be used to relieve pain and inflammation, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Shrewsbury, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to promote healing.

Consistency is crucial in non-surgical treatment. Following your physical therapy plan, attending all scheduled sessions, and completing your home exercises are essential for recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you at every stage, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Shrewsbury, MO

If non-surgical treatments fail to offer enough relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options are different depending on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures may involve:

• 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: Used when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

Whatever the surgical approach, physical therapy is crucial both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy helps strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for restoring 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 Shrewsbury, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs depending on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery often takes a few weeks to several 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.

Sticking to your physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Shrewsbury, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program aimed at restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists offer ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, helping you make consistent progress.

To maximize your recovery, it’s crucial to stick to your prescribed exercises, attend all therapy sessions, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re healing from surgery or dealing with a tear through non-surgical means, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and return to your normal activities. We’ll also instruct you in injury prevention techniques so you can remain active without pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists is committed to providing individualized care focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Shrewsbury, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and regain 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 customized treatment plans are crafted to help you reach the best possible outcomes and return to the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Shrewsbury, 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 help you return to the activities you enjoy. Uncertain 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 Shrewsbury.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to assisting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and getting back to your daily routine with confidence. Our highly trained team offers compassionate, individualized care crafted to fit your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to assist you throughout the process. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—contact us today to begin your journey to recovery.