Concussion Treatment in Desoto, MO | Physical Therapy for Concussions

Concussion treatment in Desoto, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious 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 an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Desoto, MO can be an effective part of your recovery process 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:

Helps in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
Enables earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or make an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Desoto, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in healthy brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and day-to-day life.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, 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 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 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 rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

Headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
Confusion or feeling as if in a haze
Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
Tinnitus
Stomach upset or vomiting
Slurred speech
Slowed response to questions
Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

Persistent headaches
Focus and memory issues
Grumpiness 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 suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Desoto, 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 tailored to your needs. You can come to any of our locations for a free injury screening.

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

Acknowledging that you might 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 Right Away: It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is crucial. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that occur. This information can be essential for healthcare providers in evaluating and addressing your concussion.
Stay Away From 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 cleared by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities might be impaired.
Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, check-ups, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Desoto, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Desoto, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also giving guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Desoto, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to manage these multiple effects, facilitating a more controlled and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Desoto, MO may include:

Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create individualized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities crafted 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 reduce dizziness-related problems.
Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to securely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises assist in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity 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 may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Desoto, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a dynamic approach that evolves with the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly boost the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Desoto, MO community. This local connection creates 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 customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over two decades of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Desoto, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This extensive experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by experienced professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most efficient 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 individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your specific needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to establishing an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, and motivated. Our passion for helping others is evident 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 sets 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 refreshing approach 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 comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Desoto, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

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

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Desoto, 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 Desoto, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop an scientifically validated 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 comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Desoto, MO.