Concussion treatment in Dardenne Prairie, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that require specialized care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Dardenne Prairie, 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 easing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment online to begin your concussion treatment in Dardenne Prairie, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by an impact to the head or a forceful jolt that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary interference in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not diminish 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 can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are often associated with intense 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 slipping on ice, 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 sufficient 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 length and intensity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the specific individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and management, frequently involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a fog
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Tinnitus
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Focus and memory complaints
• Irritability and other mood changes
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will encounter each of these symptoms, and their severity can differ. 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 Dardenne Prairie, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right 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 Dardenne Prairie, MO

Recognizing that you could have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right 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 visit a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts of a concussion can be not always obvious and sometimes 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 concentration or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any differences or new symptoms that occur. This information is crucial 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 directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and judgment could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only aids in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Dardenne Prairie, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Dardenne Prairie, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Dardenne Prairie, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on the right rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Dardenne Prairie, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

20% concussions need longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to manage these varied effects, facilitating a more secure and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Dardenne Prairie, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop customized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to gradually restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at 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 assist in the recovery of these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Dardenne Prairie, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a dynamic approach that adapts to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly boost the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and effectively.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Dardenne Prairie, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Dardenne Prairie, MO stands out as a premier choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Dardenne Prairie, MO community. This local connection fosters a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are integrated into the local fabric, Axes brings a tailored 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 Dardenne Prairie, MO, Axes presents a team of extremely skilled 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 directed by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take center stage. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, helping you resume 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 establishing an environment where patients feel encouraged, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others is evident 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 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 emphasis of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our holistic approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Dardenne Prairie, MO team acknowledges the complex 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 Dardenne Prairie, 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 Dardenne Prairie, 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 safely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a safe and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Dardenne Prairie, MO.