Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Shrewsbury, MO. When you are suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, you are likely facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or be able to relax pain-free. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand how such injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our experienced physical therapy team in Shrewsbury, MO is ready to provide the personalized care you need to restore your strength and mobility. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you love, whether that’s being active, working, playing with your kids, or simply living pain-free.

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 begin your recovery journey.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial component of the shoulder’s anatomy, consisting of 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, like 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: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Though still painful and restrictive, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: During a full-thickness tear, the tendon is separated from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. These tears can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to necessitate surgery. A partial full-thickness tear means 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

Recognizing the common causes of rotator cuff tears may help you prevent injury or detect problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, such as lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, repeated stress from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, resulting in a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons naturally weaken, increasing the risk 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:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, particularly at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, especially when raising the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crackling sensation or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps clarify why prompt treatment is crucial 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 earlier you detect the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. Should you already have a diagnosis by a physician, we’ll form a team with you and your Shrewsbury, MO doctor to provide you with the best possible treatment and outcome possible.

Feel free to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We start with a thorough physical examination to evaluate your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. When needed, we may suggest 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 have 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 are effective at alleviating pain and restore shoulder function. At Axes Physical Therapy, we prioritize personalized, conservative care that addresses your specific needs.

Shrewsbury, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is typically the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists craft individualized treatment plans to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder, enhance flexibility, and ease pain. Here’s how physical therapy benefits:

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

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Proper pain management is important for recovery. According to the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest 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) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For severe symptoms, injections could be used to reduce 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 Shrewsbury, MO physical therapists will guide you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to promote healing.

Staying consistent is vital in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, attending all scheduled sessions, and completing your home exercises are essential for recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you at every stage, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Shrewsbury, MO

When non-surgical treatments don’t bring adequate relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options vary according to 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 more conventional surgery for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Needed when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.

Regardless of the type of surgery, physical therapy is crucial throughout the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy helps strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is vital to restoring strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we create customized rehabilitation plans to ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Shrewsbury, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends according to whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery typically takes weeks to months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery typically requires a longer period, commonly 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Shrewsbury, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists offer ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, ensuring you make steady progress.

To enhance your recovery, it’s important to adhere to your exercise regimen, attend all therapy sessions, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. Whether you are recovering from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to ensuring you achieve the best results and return to your normal activities. We’ll also teach you injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled physical therapists specializes in 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 Shrewsbury, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and restore their strength and mobility. We believe in a compassionate, supportive approach, guaranteeing that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our personalized treatment plans are focused on achieving the best possible outcomes and go back to doing what you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Shrewsbury, MO

If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team craft an individualized treatment plan to assist you in getting back to what you love. Not sure if it’s a tear? Make use of our free injury screening, so we can evaluate your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Shrewsbury.

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 skilled team delivers compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether via non-surgical options or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to support you along your entire journey. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—reach out to us now to begin your journey to recovery.