Concussion treatment in Fenton, 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 experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Fenton, MO can be an essential part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love most safely and successfully.

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

• Helps in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

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

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by an impact to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in healthy brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. 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 soccer, but they can occur in any 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 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 aggressively inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, frequently involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are crucial to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

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

Not everyone will experience all these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Fenton, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments suited 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 Fenton, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is vital because the consequences of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see 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: Record your symptoms, noting any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information can be essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing 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 may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an continued physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Fenton, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it manages various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Fenton, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on the right rest and gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Fenton, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

One in five concussions need more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to tackle these multiple effects, facilitating a safer and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Fenton, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities intended to gradually restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with 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 use specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual 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 include exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises assist in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including activity modification 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 Fenton, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and successfully.

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

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Fenton, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Fenton, MO stands out as a top choice for multiple compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, strongly integrated in the Fenton, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are members of the local fabric, Axes brings a personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a clinical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over two decades of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Fenton, MO, Axes boasts a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This extensive experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by skilled professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

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

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A positive experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in creating an environment where patients feel cared for, listened to, and motivated. Our passion for helping others is evident in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as positive 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 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 breath of fresh air 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 comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Fenton, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

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

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