Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Woodson Terrace, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, 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 understand how a rotator cuff injury can affect your life and mental health. Our experienced physical therapy team in Woodson Terrace, MO is ready to provide the personalized care you need to regain your strength and mobility. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you love, whether that’s participating in sports, working, playing with your kids, or enjoying a pain-free life.

Feel free to come to 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 is an important component of the shoulder’s anatomy, consisting of four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. Together, these muscles stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate a wide range of motions, including lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are classified into different degrees of severity, impacting treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears are:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon is frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Despite being painful and limiting, partial tears typically respond well to conservative treatments including physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: During a full-thickness tear, the tendon detaches from the bone, often necessitating more intensive treatment. Such tears can cause considerable weakness in the shoulder and are often more likely to necessitate surgical intervention. A partial full-thickness tear means 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.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Knowing the common causes of rotator cuff tears may help you steer clear of injury or recognize issues sooner:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, might cause an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: As time passes, continuous strain from activities such as painting, lifting, or sports may weaken the tendons, resulting in a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the tendons naturally 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 essential for seeking timely treatment. Some common signs are:

• Continuous shoulder discomfort, especially at night or when resting on the affected side.
• Reduced strength in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, particularly when elevating the arm or stretching overhead.
• A grinding 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 avoid further damage and to regain normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Woodson Terrace, 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. Should you already have a diagnosis by a doctor, we’ll form a team with you and your Woodson Terrace, MO physician 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 begin with a thorough physical examination to assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If needed, we may recommend imaging tests including 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 have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Woodson Terrace, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Woodson Terrace, MO

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

Woodson Terrace, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is often the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists create individualized treatment plans to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and minimize pain. This is how physical therapy aids:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to fortify the muscles around the rotator cuff, helping to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Flexibility and motion exercises to enhance the range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

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

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow and eases muscle tension.
• 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, though this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Woodson Terrace, MO physical therapists will guide 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 completing your home exercises are critical to your recovery. Our team at Axes is dedicated to helping you at every stage, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Woodson Terrace, MO

If non-surgical treatments don’t bring adequate relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery could be 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: Needed when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.

Regardless of the type of surgery, physical therapy is a key factor before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy helps strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is essential 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 Woodson Terrace, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs according to whether or not you had surgery. For non-surgical treatments, recovery often takes 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.

Sticking to your physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Woodson Terrace, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program aimed at bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists provide ongoing support and adjustments to your plan, ensuring you make steady 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’re recovering from surgery or treating a tear through non-surgical means, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and get back to your normal routine. We’ll also show you injury prevention techniques so you can keep active and avoid pain.

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

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of expert physical therapists focuses on providing personalized care designed for each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Woodson Terrace, MO patients overcome rotator cuff tears and get back their strength and mobility. We believe in a compassionate, supportive approach, guaranteeing that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our customized treatment plans are crafted to help you reach the best possible outcomes and go back to doing what you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Woodson Terrace, 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 design a tailored 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 guide you toward the best course of action. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Woodson Terrace.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to assisting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and getting back to your daily routine with confidence. Our skilled team gives compassionate, individualized care crafted to fit your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical treatment or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Don’t let shoulder pain stop you—connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery.