Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment The Hill, St. Louis, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you’re probably facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we know how these injuries can affect your life and mental health. Our expert physical therapy team in The Hill, St. Louis, MO is here to provide the personalized plan you need to feel like your old self again. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you love, whether that’s being active, working, engaging in family activities, or simply living pain-free.

You can come to 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.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is an important part of the shoulder’s anatomy, comprising four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. Together, these muscles stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of movements, 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 include:

1. Partial Tears: This happens when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Though still painful and restrictive, partial tears typically respond well to conservative treatments like physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: A full-thickness tear occurs when, the tendon becomes detached from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to require surgical intervention. A full-thickness incomplete tear occurs when there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear means the tendon completely detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Understanding the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you prevent injury or spot issues early:

• 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: As time passes, repeated stress from activities like painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, 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 is key to seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Persistent shoulder pain, most notably at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Shoulder weakness, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, particularly when elevating the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crackling sensation or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

Being aware of these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps clarify why prompt treatment is essential to prevent further damage and to restore normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in The Hill, St. Louis, 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 without invasive procedures. If you have already been diagnosed by a doctor, we’ll form a team with you and your The Hill, St. Louis, MO doctor to get you the best possible treatment and outcome available.

You can also visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We start with a thorough physical examination to assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If required, we may recommend imaging tests like 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, initiate your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in The Hill, St. Louis, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in The Hill, St. Louis, 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 addresses your specific needs.

The Hill, St. Louis, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is typically the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists create individualized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and alleviate pain. Here’s why physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to build the muscles that support the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching and movement exercises to enhance 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

Managing pain effectively is vital for recovery. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and relaxes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For severe symptoms, injections might be used to reduce pain and inflammation, though this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Restricting activities that irritate your shoulder is essential during the healing process. Our The Hill, St. Louis, 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.

Staying consistent is vital in non-surgical treatment. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, making it to all your sessions, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is dedicated to helping you every step of the way, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in The Hill, St. Louis, MO

In cases where non-surgical treatments fail to offer enough relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options are different according to the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures include:

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

Whatever the surgical approach, physical therapy plays a critical role before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy works to strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for regaining strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we design individualized rehab programs to help ensure a smooth and effective recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in The Hill, St. Louis, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs based on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. 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 typically requires a longer period, usually 4 to 6 months, with a gradual return to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists offer ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, helping you make consistent progress.

To ensure the best recovery, it’s vital to follow your prescribed exercises, make it to all therapy appointments, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you are recovering from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is committed to supporting you in getting the best outcome and resume your usual 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled physical therapists is dedicated 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO patients heal 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 individualized treatment plans are intended to bring about the best possible outcomes and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in The Hill, St. Louis, 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 help you return to the activities you enjoy. Not sure if it’s a tear? Make use of our free injury screening, where we’ll assess your symptoms and recommend the best path forward. Phone the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near The Hill, St. Louis.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to supporting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our experienced team offers compassionate, individualized care focused on meeting your unique needs. Whether with non-surgical therapy or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to support you at every stage. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.