Up to 2 million Americans suffer rotator cuff injuries each year due to trauma, physical activity, and general wear-and-tear. At Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West in Sun City West, Arizona, experienced physical therapist Kimberly Hilditch, PT, MSPT, and the team offer full-service treatment for rotator cuff injuries, including stretches, strengthening exercises, and manual therapies. They can speed up your healing process and help you return to your favorite activities. Call Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West today to receive treatment for a rotator cuff injury, or book your appointment online.

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What are rotator cuff injuries?

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that hold the ball of your upper arm joint inside its socket. These tissues are incredibly tough and assist you with lifting, reaching, and grabbing, but they’re also susceptible to injury and overuse.

Several types of injuries can affect your rotator cuff, including:

  • Impingement
  • Tendinitis
  • Tendinosis
  • Partial, complete, and acute tears

Minor rotator cuff injuries often improve with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication, but if your symptoms continue or keep you from work or exercise, seeking treatment is essential.

Can I ignore a rotator cuff injury?

No. Rotator cuff injuries aren’t something to take lightly. Without treatment, they can lead to lasting damage, affecting your range of motion and ability to use your arm.

If your doctor determines that your rotator cuff injury won’t heal on its own, they refer you to Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West. Physical therapy provides a safe and noninvasive treatment option that’s far less risky than surgery.

Can physical therapy successfully treat rotator cuff injuries?

Yes. Physical therapy practices, like stretches, strengthening exercises, and manual therapies, have a proven track record of success when it comes to rotator cuff injuries. One study found that conservative treatments like physical therapy provided significant relief for up to 80% of people with complete rotator cuff tears.

Because physical therapy is noninvasive, there’s no risk of infection or other surgery-related complications. What’s more, most people see an improvement in their symptoms after just one or two therapy sessions.

What does physical therapy for rotator cuff injuries involve?

The Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West team treats rotator cuff injuries using a conservative and patient-centered approach. Depending on the type and severity of your rotator cuff injury, they might suggest:

  • Therapeutic exercises
  • Manual stretching
  • Manual traction
  • Myofascial release
  • Trigger point release
  • Deep soft tissue mobilization
  • Muscle energy techniques
  • Ultrasound therapy
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
  • Mechanical traction
  • Iontophoresis
  • Laser Touch One™

The team usually recommends a combination of complementary therapies. Together, these services can relieve pain, reduce swelling, and encourage the body’s healing process.

To learn more about physical therapy for rotator cuff injuries, make an appointment at Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West by calling the office today, or book your visit online.