Concussion treatment in Dellwood, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require specialized care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Dellwood, MO can be an integral part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and effectively.

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 returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know is experiencing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online to begin your concussion treatment in Dellwood, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is basically a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, 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 ability to function normally.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently 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 typically occur 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 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 adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the individual and the details of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, frequently 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 prolonged symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a cloud
• Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

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

Not everyone will experience all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Dellwood, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments customized 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 Dellwood, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is vital because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, keeping an eye on any alterations or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, avoid driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Dellwood, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Dellwood, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on proper rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Dellwood, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

One in five concussions require longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can disrupt 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 better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Dellwood, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including 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 manage symptoms. This education enables 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 Dellwood, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that evolves with the evolving 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 get back to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Dellwood, MO community. This local connection builds a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run 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 leadership in the physical therapy industry in Dellwood, MO, Axes presents a team of extremely skilled 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 experts in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your specific needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on establishing an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication 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 puts 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can often 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 total wellness is always in view. Our Dellwood, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Dellwood, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an research-supported 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 protected and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Dellwood, MO.