Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Town and Country, MO. If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize how these injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our experienced physical therapy team in Town and Country, MO is ready to provide the personalized plan necessary to feel like your old self again. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities you love, whether that’s playing sports, working, playing with your kids, or simply living pain-free.

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

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff forms 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 allow for a wide range of actions, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears can 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 type of tear occurs when the tendon gets 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: A full-thickness tear occurs when, the tendon is separated from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. These tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to require surgical intervention. A partial full-thickness tear means 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 will help you avoid injury or detect problems early:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: With time, continuous strain from activities including painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, resulting in a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, 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 crucial to seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:

• Continuous shoulder discomfort, most notably at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Reduced strength in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Reduced mobility, especially when lifting the arm or reaching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

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

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Town and Country, 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. Should you already have a diagnosis by a doctor, we’ll partner with you and your Town and Country, 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 assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If required, we may recommend imaging tests including 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 Town and Country, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Town and Country, MO

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

Town and Country, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is typically the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists craft individualized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, increase flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s why physical therapy assists:

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

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Effective pain management is vital for recovery. According to the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat increases blood flow and soothes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections might be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, although this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Town and Country, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to promote healing.

Staying consistent is vital in non-surgical treatment. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, making it to all your sessions, and completing your home exercises are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you throughout your journey, making sure you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Town and Country, MO

In cases where non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options differ based on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures consist of:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally 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.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is essential both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy helps strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary for restoring strength, mobility, and 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 Town and Country, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies based on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery may take 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, typically 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 Town and Country, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program focused on restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists provide ongoing support and modifications to your program, helping you make consistent progress.

To enhance your recovery, it’s crucial to follow your prescribed exercises, go to every therapy session, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to guiding you to the best possible recovery and get back to your normal routine. We’ll also guide you on injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Town and Country, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists is dedicated to providing tailored care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are skilled in helping Town and Country, MO patients bounce back from rotator cuff tears and rebuild their strength and mobility. We focus on a compassionate, supportive approach, guaranteeing 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 resume the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Town and Country, MO

When you’re facing a rotator cuff tear, don’t hesitate to begin your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team develop a customized treatment plan to bring you back to the activities you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and recommend the best path forward. Call the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Town and Country.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our highly trained team offers compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether by means of non-surgical care or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to support you along your entire journey. Don’t allow shoulder pain to limit you—reach out to us now to begin your journey to recovery.