Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment University City, 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 simply enjoy life. At Axes Physical Therapy, we know the frustration and discomfort that comes with these injuries. Our experienced physical therapy team in University City, MO is ready to provide the personalized plan necessary to recover your strength and mobility. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities that you love most, whether that’s participating in sports, working, playing with your kids, or just living without pain.

Feel free to visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, make an appointment online, or call the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff forms an important element of the shoulder’s anatomy, made up of four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles collaborate to stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of actions, including lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

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

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 like physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: During a full-thickness tear, the tendon detaches from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to require surgery. A full-thickness incomplete tear occurs 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?

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

• Acute Injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: As time passes, repetitive stress from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, leading to a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: Over the years, the tendons gradually 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 is crucial to seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, particularly at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Reduced strength in the shoulder, which makes it tough to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, particularly when lifting the arm or reaching overhead.
• A crackling sensation or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Understanding these symptoms and the underlying anatomy clarifies why prompt treatment is crucial to avoid further damage and for restoring normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in University City, 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. If you have already been diagnosed by a doctor, we’ll collaborate with you and your University City, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome available.

You can also come to any Axes location for a free injury screening. We initiate 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 conduct several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in University City, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in University City, MO

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

University City, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first line of defense against rotator cuff tears. Our therapists create individualized treatment plans to build up the muscles surrounding the shoulder, enhance flexibility, and alleviate pain. Here’s how physical therapy assists:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to develop the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to increase the range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to ease pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Proper pain management is important for recovery. Based on the severity of your symptoms, we may propose 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) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections might 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 crucial during the healing process. Our University City, MO physical therapists will instruct you on how to adjust your daily routine to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to promote healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, attending all scheduled sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are vital to your recovery. Our team at Axes is committed to supporting you through the entire process, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in University City, MO

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is more serious, surgery might be required. Surgical options can vary depending on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures consist of:

• 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: Used when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.

Whatever the surgical approach, physical therapy plays a critical role both before and after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for rebuilding strength, mobility, and overall 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 University City, MO

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

Sticking to your physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our University City, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program designed to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists offer ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, to ensure continuous improvement.

To optimize your recovery, it’s important to follow your prescribed exercises, go to every therapy session, and implement necessary lifestyle changes to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re healing from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is focused on supporting you in getting the best outcome 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 University City, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of dedicated physical therapists is committed to providing individualized care focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding University City, MO patients overcome rotator cuff tears and get back their strength and mobility. We prioritize a compassionate, supportive approach, ensuring 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 return to the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in University City, MO

If you are dealing with a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to the activities you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Take advantage of our free injury screening, where we’ll assess your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Contact the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near University City.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re committed to supporting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and returning to your normal activities with confidence. Our expert team delivers compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether with non-surgical therapy or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you along your entire journey. Don’t let shoulder pain stop you—get in touch with us today to begin your journey to recovery.