The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that help the shoulder function and provide active stability. Rotator cuff tears are a common injury that can result from either degenerative changes (age-related) or trauma. These tears are classified as either partial thickness (tearing on the top of the tendon, bottom of the tendon or within the tendon) or full thickness (tearing through the tendon). A great way to think about tendon tears is to think about the tendon as a blanket. If you have some of the thread fraying on the top or bottom, think of that as a partial tendon tear. If you can see a hole in the blanket, think of that as a full thickness tendon tear. The great thing is the tendon can often still do its job with many different tear sizes, just like a blanket can still keep you warm with fraying or a hole in it. Diagnosis is made by clinical examination and MRI, but having an MRI is not usually necessary and we recommend reading this BLOG for more information. Some of the signs and symptoms associated with a rotator cuff injury can include: pain or difficulty reaching overhead and pain with shoulder strength testing.
Can physical therapy help? YES! Correctly dosed physical therapy can help reduce pain, improve non-optimal movement strategies and strengthen the intact rotator cuff tendon complex to improve your quality of life. If you are considering shoulder surgery, we recommend reading this BLOG which outlines who often benefits from working with us first. If you have surgery planned or just had surgery and want to find out what to expect after surgery, this BLOG can help set appropriate expectations and provide general guidelines. One of our physical therapists also published an article on rotator cuff rehabilitation after surgery in the Journal of Shoulder Elbow Surgery Reviews, Reports, and Techniques with one of the best local orthopedic surgeons which you can read HERE.
Olivia
Patient
Nick was so attentive to my needs and he structured his schedule to fit mine. My therapy was focused on my strengths and weaknesses; therefore, my recovery time was much shorter than expected. I highly recommend Nevada Physical Therapy for any lingering pain you may be experiencing.
Read More ReviewsAleem
Patient
I cannot say enough positive things about this place. Came in with an ACL injury. I spent a few weeks working with jonathan. His evidence-based approach and motivational ability was really really inspiring. He helped me get back to normal and then some!
Read More ReviewsNadine
Patient
DAKOTA EZELL is at the top of MY list as a highly skilled, intuitive, present professional who values and treats me as a whole person, not just someone to fill a time slot
Read More ReviewsShahbaz
Patient
The best Physical Therapy place I have ever visited. Rare to see an emphasis on finding the best method to improve injury instead of giving everyone the same plan. But the best part about this place is it's approach to well being during and after PT.
Read More ReviewsEP
Patient
I was referred to Brian Fearnley by someone with significant credibility. I consider working with Brian a huge stroke of luck. This specific 'PT' is increasing my recovery potential a hundred fold. Brian knows his stuff. He is well versed in PT. He has athletic history at UNR and is active in our local community. He is clearly in this profession to help people recover and get under their own power.
Read More ReviewsJoyce
Patient
After two plus years of hip pain, three other physical therapists, quarterly injections and no relief, Crista made the pain go away! If I could give her and this practice 10 stars I'd do it!
Read More ReviewsPerris
Patient
As a professional athlete, injuries can make or break a career. Luckily, in my case, I had Nevada Physical Therapy on my side. Not only did they physically help me recover from a meniscus surgery, but they provided the best emotional support you could ask for in such a difficult time.
Read More ReviewsRoss
Patient
Phenomenal. I had some brutal injuries that resulted in four surgeries and seriously disrupted my life. There can be no doubt that the quality of life I enjoy today was a direct result of working with Nevada Physical Therapy.
Read More ReviewsBrandon
Patient
I attended Nevada Physical Therapy for my post surgery physical therapy and have nothing but great things to say. For any of you reading this, this place is by far the best physical therapy place I have ever attended with exceptional staff. I had the pleasure to work with Dakota who is extremely knowledgeable, patient and would go above and beyond to make sure you're taken care of.
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