Concussion treatment in Gray Summit, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Gray Summit, MO can be an integral part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.
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
- Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
- Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms
If you or someone you know is experiencing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location most convenient for you or request an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Gray Summit, MO today.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being 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 blows to the head during daily activities. 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 typically occur from incidents such as falling on icy surfaces, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to mention that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, 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 the majority of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause not only immediate and longer-term symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
- Disorientation or feeling as if in a haze
- Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
- Ringing in the ears
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Delayed response to questions
- Fatigue
Long-Term Symptoms
- Continual headaches
- Focus and memory problems
- Grumpiness and other changes in mood
- Increased sensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep disturbances
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not every person will experience all these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Gray Summit, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable 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 Gray Summit, MO
Recognizing that you may have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you think you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the consequences of a concussion can be not always obvious and often delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, keeping an eye on any alterations or new symptoms that occur. This information is crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
- Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect 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, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and judgment might be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.
Remember, taking these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Gray Summit, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Gray Summit, MO
Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Gray Summit, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Gray Summit, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.
20% concussions take longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to manage these diverse effects, aiding in a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Gray Summit, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate customized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to gradually restore normal function without aggravating 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 better balance and lessen 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 vital for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to securely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring physical endurance, 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 activity modification and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education enables you to take an active role in your recovery.
Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Gray Summit, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that evolves with the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly enhance 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 Gray Summit, MO
Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Gray Summit, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Gray Summit, MO stands out as a top choice for several compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a locally owned entity, strongly integrated in the Gray Summit, MO community. This local connection fosters a greater 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 customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a standard procedure.
Expertise and Experience
With in excess of 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Gray Summit, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by skilled professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take center stage. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized 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 equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in establishing an environment where patients feel supported, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as positive and positive as possible.
Emphasis on Relationships
As a patient-focused business, Axes sets 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 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 Gray Summit, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to tackle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Gray Summit, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Gray Summit, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create an evidence-backed 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 comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Gray Summit, MO.