Rotator Cuff Tear Physical Therapy in Chardon, OH
You were told you have a rotator cuff tear. Now what?
Lifting your arm hurts. Reaching behind your back, putting on a jacket, or sleeping on that side is hard. Maybe an MRI showed a tear and surgery was mentioned. You're not sure if you need it, or what happens if you don't.
You deserve clear answers, a plan you understand, and a provider you can trust.
We know how frustrating this is
Most of our clients come to us after other treatments didn't work. We know how discouraging it is to hurt, feel stuck, and not know who to trust. That's why the Doctors of Physical Therapy at Chardon Performance Therapy start by listening, until we understand your story and your goals.
We've helped thousands of active people regain confidence, strength, and control, even after other treatments didn't work.
Rotator cuff problems we treat
Rotator cuff tears, partial and full thickness
Rotator cuff tendinitis and tendinopathy
Shoulder impingement
Bicep tendon problems
Weakness lifting your arm overhead
Rehab after rotator cuff repair surgery
How it works
1. Share your story. Your initial assessment is a 75-minute, one-on-one visit with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. We listen to your goals, your history, and what you've already tried, so we understand what truly matters to you.
2. Get a comprehensive care plan. We test your shoulder strength with dynamometry, compare side to side, and look at your shoulder blade and upper back. Then we explain your options in clear, simple language, including whether surgery is worth considering.
3. Work with an accountable guide. Your follow-up sessions are a full hour, one-on-one. We use hands-on care, dry needling, and a progressive strength program, and coordinate with your surgeon if you have surgery.
Do you need surgery?
Not always. Research shows that many people with rotator cuff tears, including some full-thickness tears, do well with a focused physical therapy program and never need surgery. Others, especially after a sudden injury, do better with a repair. We'll help you understand which group you're likely in, and we'll support you either way.
What our clients say
"After having an MRI, I scheduled surgery but in the meantime decided to start PT to strengthen the weak areas of my shoulder… As I worked with Meagan and Brad, they saw such improvements that I decided to cancel my surgery!"
Doreen G. ★★★★★
"When I injured my shoulder and rotator cup I came back to him and within one month I have great mobility in my shoulder."
Damon D. ★★★★★
"I dealt with shoulder pain for over a year before finally trying Chardon Performance Therapy… I can lift my kids again without pain, which has been life-changing."
Stephanie E. ★★★★★
Rated 5.0 stars from 253 Google reviews.
Don't stay stuck
If you wait, a weak shoulder tends to get weaker and stiffer, and simple daily tasks get harder. Let's rebuild it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a doctor's referral for physical therapy in Ohio?
No. Ohio law lets you see a physical therapist directly, without a referral.
How long are the sessions?
Your initial assessment is 75 minutes. Follow-up sessions are 60 minutes, always one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Do you take insurance?
We're out of network with all insurance companies. We accept HSA and FSA cards, and many clients are reimbursed through their out-of-network benefits. We'll walk you through your options on a quick call.
Can a torn rotator cuff heal without surgery?
A torn tendon doesn't usually grow back together on its own, but many people regain strength and lose their pain by strengthening the muscles around it. That's why many tears can be managed without surgery.
How soon can I start after rotator cuff surgery?
As soon as your surgeon allows. We'll follow your surgeon's protocol and keep them informed.
Should I stop using my arm?
Usually not. Gentle, guided use helps recovery. We'll show you what's safe now and build you up from there.
When should I see a doctor instead?
If you suddenly can't lift your arm after a fall or injury, your shoulder looks deformed, or you have shoulder pain with chest pain or shortness of breath, see a physician or go to urgent care right away.
More shoulder help: Face Pull for Shoulder Stability (video) · ITY Raises for Upper Back Activation (video) · Thoracic Spine Mobility for Rounded Shoulders (video)
Serving Chardon and Northeast Ohio
Our clinic is at 520 5th Ave in downtown Chardon. Clients come to us from Chesterland, Mentor, Painesville, Perry, Eastlake, Willoughby, Pepper Pike, Cleveland Heights, and across Geauga and Lake County.