Concussion treatment in Brentwood, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Brentwood, MO can be an essential part of your recovery process that returns you to the activities you love most safely and successfully.
According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research indicates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:
- Aids in easing post-concussion symptoms
- Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
- Is widely recognized as safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you love is dealing with concussion symptoms, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Brentwood, MO today.
About Concussions
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a blow to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a brief disruption in healthy brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and quality of life.
Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with high-impact or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in any athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions typically occur from incidents such as ice-related falls, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to note that you don’t need a direct blow to the head to get a concussion, 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 temporary and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause not only immediate and prolonged symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- A headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
- Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
- Disorientation or feeling as if in a fog
- Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
- Ear ringing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Slowed response to questions
- Exhaustion
Lingering Symptoms
- Ongoing headaches
- Concentration and memory issues
- Irritability and other emotional changes
- Hypersensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep disturbances
- 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 persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Brentwood, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments tailored to your needs. You can go to any of our locations for a free injury screening.
What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Brentwood, MO
Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you think you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms seem mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be subtle and sometimes delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in evaluating and addressing your concussion.
- Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system must be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and cognitive abilities could be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, check-ups, or an extended physical therapy plan.
Remember, following these steps not only assists in your recovery but also reduces the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Brentwood, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Brentwood, MO
Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Brentwood, 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 safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Brentwood, MO with safety, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
20% concussions need longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to manage these diverse effects, aiding in a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Brentwood, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities designed to steadily restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to better balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to assist in the recovery of these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises assist in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to manage symptoms. This education empowers you to take an involved role in your recovery.
Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Brentwood, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly improve the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and effectively.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Brentwood, MO
Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Brentwood, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Brentwood, MO stands out as a top choice for many compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a community-based entity, firmly entrenched in the Brentwood, MO community. This local connection fosters a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are part 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 in excess of two decades of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Brentwood, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This extensive 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 guided by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your recovery and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your particular needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A positive experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, and motivated. Our passion for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as pleasant and positive as possible.
Emphasis on Relationships
As a service-oriented business, Axes sets a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the importance 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 sometimes be overlooked in healthcare.
Comprehensive Approach to Wellness
While the emphasis of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our all-encompassing approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Brentwood, MO team recognizes the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to handle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Brentwood, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Brentwood, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an evidence-backed treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love securely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a secure and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Brentwood, MO.