Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Washington, MO. If you are suffering from a rotator cuff tear or shoulder pain, you’re likely facing daily challenges that impact your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the frustration and discomfort that comes with such injuries. Our experienced physical therapy team in Washington, MO is here to provide the personalized plan necessary to regain your strength and mobility. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you enjoy, whether it’s participating in sports, working, spending time with your children, or simply living pain-free.

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

About Rotator Cuff Tears

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

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are classified into different levels of severity, impacting 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. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: With a full-thickness tear, the tendon is separated from the bone, often requiring more intensive treatment. These tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to necessitate surgical intervention. 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 fully detaches from the bone.

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Understanding the common causes of rotator cuff tears may help you avoid injury or identify the root cause of your symptoms:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, may result in an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: As time passes, continuous strain from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports can deteriorate the tendons, causing a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons gradually 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 key to seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Persistent shoulder pain, particularly at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Reduced strength in the shoulder, making it difficult to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, especially when elevating the arm or stretching overhead.
• A crunching feeling or a clicking noise when moving the shoulder.

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

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Washington, 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’ve already been diagnosed by a physician, we’ll collaborate with you and your Washington, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome achievable.

You can also come to any Axes location for a free injury screening. We begin with a thorough physical examination to check your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If needed, we may suggest imaging tests including an MRI or ultrasound to obtain a detailed view of the injury.

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

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Washington, MO

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

Washington, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists create individualized treatment plans to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder, increase flexibility, and ease pain. Here’s why physical therapy benefits:

• Strengthening: Specialized exercises to build the muscles around the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching and movement exercises to expand the range of motion and minimize stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to ease pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Managing pain effectively is essential for recovery. According to the severity of your symptoms, we may propose a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For severe symptoms, injections could be used to relieve pain and inflammation, though this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Avoiding activities that strain your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Washington, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to modify daily activities to avoid strain, while still keeping some physical activity to support healing.

Consistency is crucial in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, attending all scheduled sessions, and doing your prescribed exercises at home are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you throughout your journey, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Washington, MO

In cases where non-surgical treatments fail to offer enough relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is more serious, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options can vary according to the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures may involve:

• 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: Required 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 works to strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is critical 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 Washington, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear depends depending on whether the treatment was surgical or non-surgical. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery generally requires a longer period, typically 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Regular physical therapy is key to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Washington, MO physical therapists assist you through a tailored rehabilitation program crafted to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, to ensure continuous improvement.

To maximize your recovery, it’s vital to do your recommended exercises, make it to all therapy appointments, and adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to ensuring you achieve the best results and return to your normal activities. We’ll also guide you on injury prevention techniques so you can continue being active without pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled physical therapists specializes in 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 Washington, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and restore 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 focused on achieving the best possible outcomes and resume the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Washington, MO

If you’re suffering from a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to start your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team craft an individualized treatment plan to assist you in getting back to what you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, so we can evaluate 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 Washington.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to supporting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and returning to your normal activities with confidence. Our expert team offers compassionate, individualized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’re here to assist you at every stage. Don’t let shoulder pain stop you—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.