Concussion treatment in Benton Park West, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Benton Park West, MO can be an essential part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

Based on research from the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Helps in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, contact the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Benton Park West, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary interference in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and ability to function normally.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with forceful or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in every athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result from incidents such as ice-related falls, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to mention that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, as any action that causes the brain to move aggressively inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the specific individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, often involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• Dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Tinnitus
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other mood changes
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Which symptoms you experience and how long they last depend on your specific injury and situation. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Benton Park West, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments tailored to your needs. You can come to any of our locations for a free injury screening.

What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Benton Park West, MO

Identifying that you might have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be not always obvious and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and addressing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reflexes and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations closely. This might include a set of instructions for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only helps in your recovery but also reduces the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Benton Park West, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Benton Park West, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Benton Park West, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on the right rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Benton Park West, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

One in five concussions take more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to address these varied effects, aiding in a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Benton Park West, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop customized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to effectively increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Benton Park West, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly enhance the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and successfully.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Benton Park West, MO

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Benton Park West, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Benton Park West, MO stands out as a top choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Benton Park West, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are members of the local fabric, Axes brings a customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a standard procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Benton Park West, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by skilled professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take center stage. Understanding that each concussion patient has distinct challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your specific needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, understood, and motivated. Our passion for helping others is evident in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as positive and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a care-centered business, Axes sets a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the significance of connection and relationship-building in a healthcare setting means you’re not just a patient; you’re part of the Axes family. This emphasis on human connection is a breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can occasionally be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the emphasis of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Benton Park West, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to handle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Benton Park West, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Benton Park West, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop an evidence-backed treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love with confidence and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a protected and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Benton Park West, MO.