Concussion Treatment in Crestwood, MO | Physical Therapy for Concussions

Concussion treatment in Crestwood, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require expert care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Crestwood, MO can be an effective part of your healing journey that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research demonstrates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

Aids in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love is experiencing concussion symptoms, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Crestwood, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by an impact to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a brief disruption in normal brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and quality of life.

Concussions can occur in many different scenarios, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in any 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 you don’t need a direct blow to the head to get a concussion, as any action that causes the brain to move violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can vary widely depending on the person and the details of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

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

Immediate Symptoms

A headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
A sense of dizziness or “seeing stars”
Ringing in the ears
Feeling nauseous or vomiting
Difficulty speaking clearly
Delayed response to questions
Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

Persistent headaches
Focus and memory complaints
Irritability and other changes in mood
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 persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Crestwood, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and particular concussion treatments suited to your needs. You can visit any of our locations for a free injury screening.

What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Crestwood, MO

Identifying that you could have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you believe you have a concussion:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is important 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 essential. Avoid physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any alterations or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
Stay Away From 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 approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations closely. This might include a series of steps for slowly returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Crestwood, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Crestwood, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Crestwood, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Crestwood, MO with safety, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

One in five concussions need longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to address these multiple effects, aiding in a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Crestwood, MO may include:

Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop customized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities intended to steadily restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises assist 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 associated with concussions.
Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Crestwood, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that evolves with the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly improve the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and effectively.

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

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Crestwood, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Crestwood, MO stands out as a leading choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, firmly entrenched in the Crestwood, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run 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 typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Crestwood, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This vast 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 led 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 every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your specific needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, listened to, and motivated. Our passion for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable 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 power 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 holistic approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Crestwood, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.

Concussion Treatment in Crestwood, MO | Vestibular Therapy | Physical Therapy for Concussions Near Crestwood

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Crestwood, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Crestwood, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop an research-supported 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 Crestwood, MO.