Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Sunset Hills, MO. If you are suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily challenges that impact your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize how such injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our experienced physical therapy team in Sunset Hills, MO is here to provide the personalized care 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 playing sports, working, playing with your kids, or just living without pain.

You’re welcome to visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, schedule an appointment through out website, or call the Axes location nearest you to begin your recovery journey.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a crucial part of the shoulder’s anatomy, including four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. Together, these muscles stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate a wide range of actions, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears vary in severity, affecting treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears include:

1. Partial Tears: This happens when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Even though they are painful and restrictive, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: With a full-thickness tear, the tendon becomes detached from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to necessitate surgical intervention. An incomplete full-thickness tear happens when 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?

Being aware of the common causes of rotator cuff tears will help you avoid injury or recognize issues sooner:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, for example, lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, continuous strain from activities like painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons naturally 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. Frequent symptoms are:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, particularly at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, particularly when elevating the arm or stretching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Being aware of these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps explain why prompt treatment is crucial to avoid further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Sunset Hills, 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 Sunset Hills, MO physician to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome possible.

Feel free to visit 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. When needed, we may refer you for imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound to obtain a detailed view of the injury.

The Direct Access Physical Therapy laws in both Missouri and Illinois allow us to evaluate and diagnose you, start your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Sunset Hills, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Sunset Hills, MO

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

Sunset Hills, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists create personalized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, boost flexibility, and alleviate pain. Here’s why physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to develop the muscles around the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Flexibility and motion exercises to expand the range of motion and reduce stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Techniques such as 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 advise a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective at reducing pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections could 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 essential during the healing process. Our Sunset Hills, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still ensuring you stay somewhat active to support healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, making it to all your sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are essential for recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you throughout your journey, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Sunset Hills, MO

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is more serious, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options differ according to the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures include:

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

Regardless of the type of surgery, 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 necessary for rebuilding strength, mobility, and overall function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we develop personalized recovery plans to support a smooth and successful recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Sunset Hills, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends based on whether or not you had surgery. For non-surgical treatments, recovery may take 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, with a gradual return to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Sunset Hills, MO physical therapists assist you through a tailored rehabilitation program designed to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and plan adjustments, helping you make consistent progress.

To maximize your recovery, it’s vital to adhere to your exercise regimen, make it to all therapy appointments, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. Whether you are recovering from surgery or treating a tear through non-surgical means, our team is focused on guiding you to the best possible recovery and return to your daily life. We’ll also instruct you in injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists is committed to providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Sunset Hills, MO patients overcome rotator cuff tears and regain their strength and mobility. We prioritize 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 get back to the activities you enjoy.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Sunset Hills, MO

If you are dealing 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 create a personalized 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, to assess your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Phone the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Sunset Hills.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to supporting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and returning to your normal activities with confidence. Our highly trained team provides compassionate, individualized care designed to meet your unique needs. Whether with non-surgical therapy or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—get in touch with us today to begin your journey to recovery.