Concussion treatment in Columbus Square, MO. Concussions are more than just 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 got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Columbus Square, MO can be an effective part of your treatment plan 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:

• Aids in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is dealing with concussion symptoms, call the Axes location most convenient for you or request an appointment online to initiate your concussion treatment in Columbus Square, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly caused by an impact to the head or a forceful jolt that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary disruption in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health 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 blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in any athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result from incidents such as slipping on ice, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to note 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 sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and management, often involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a sensation 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
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Long-Term Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Irritability and other emotional changes
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will encounter all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Columbus Square, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and specific 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 Columbus Square, MO

Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to visit a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is crucial. Avoid physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, observing any changes or new symptoms that occur. This information becomes crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations closely. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only aids in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Columbus Square, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Columbus Square, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Columbus Square, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also giving guidance on proper rest and gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Columbus Square, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

One in five concussions take longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to tackle these multiple effects, facilitating a more secure and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Columbus Square, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop individualized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities intended to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from 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 affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to securely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises aid in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Columbus Square, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that evolves with the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and successfully.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Columbus Square, MO

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Columbus Square, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Columbus Square, MO stands out as a premier choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Columbus Square, MO community. This local connection builds a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are part of the local fabric, Axes brings a personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over 20 years of experience in the physical therapy industry in Columbus Square, MO, Axes boasts a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This vast experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the nuances of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by knowledgeable professionals who are experts in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our passion for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as pleasant and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a care-centered business, Axes places 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can occasionally be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the concentration of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Columbus Square, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Columbus Square, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Columbus Square, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create 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 safe and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Columbus Square, MO.