Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Union, MO. If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, you’re probably facing daily difficulties that disrupt your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your day-to-day activities. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize how such injuries can affect your life and mental health. Our expert physical therapy team in Union, MO is prepared to provide the personalized care 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 it’s playing sports, working, spending time with your children, or just living without pain.

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

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff represents a crucial component of the shoulder’s anatomy, made up of four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of movements, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

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

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon is frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears often respond well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: In a full-thickness tear, the tendon separates from the bone, often requiring more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to necessitate surgery. A full-thickness incomplete tear occurs when there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A complete full-thickness tear occurs when the tendon completely detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

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

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, 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 like painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons gradually weaken, raising the likelihood of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Identifying the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is key to seeking timely treatment. Typical symptoms may include:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, most notably at night or when sleeping on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, particularly when elevating the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crackling sensation or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

Knowing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy clarifies why prompt treatment is essential to stop further damage and to restore normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Union, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The earlier you recognize the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. Should you already have a diagnosis by a doctor, we’ll partner with you and your Union, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome available.

Feel free to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We initiate a thorough physical examination to examine your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If needed, we may suggest imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound to get 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 conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Union, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Union, MO

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

Union, 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, boost flexibility, and reduce pain. Here’s why physical therapy assists:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to build the muscles that support the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Flexibility and motion exercises to expand the range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Methods like manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Managing pain effectively is crucial for recovery. Based on the severity of your symptoms, we may advise a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and relaxes muscles.
• 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 crucial during the healing process. Our Union, 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.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Sticking to your physical therapy schedule, attending all scheduled sessions, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you through the entire process, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Union, MO

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

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgery 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 reattach to the bone.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is essential before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy works to strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is vital to rebuilding strength, mobility, and overall function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we create customized rehabilitation plans to help ensure a smooth and effective recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Union, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear varies according to whether or not you had surgery. For non-surgical treatments, recovery typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery usually requires a longer period, commonly 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Union, MO physical therapists assist you through a tailored rehabilitation program aimed at restore strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists offer ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, to ensure continuous improvement.

To optimize your recovery, it’s crucial to follow your prescribed exercises, participate in every therapy session, and adjust your lifestyle as needed to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is focused on ensuring you achieve the best results and get back to your normal routine. 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 Union, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of experienced physical therapists focuses on providing customized treatment adapted to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Union, MO patients bounce back from rotator cuff tears and get back their strength and mobility. We emphasize a compassionate, supportive approach, working to ensure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our tailored treatment plans are designed to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and resume the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Union, MO

If you are dealing with 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. Not sure if it’s a tear? Take advantage of our free injury screening, to 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 Union.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our experienced team offers compassionate, individualized care designed to meet your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you throughout the process. Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from living fully—contact us today to begin your journey to recovery.