Concussion treatment in Kirkwood, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Kirkwood, MO can be an effective part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible 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 periods of recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, call the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Kirkwood, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury commonly caused by an impact to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary interference in healthy brain function, influencing mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have significant 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 blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in all athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result 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 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 short-term and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and 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

• A headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Concentration and memory problems
• Grumpiness and other mood changes
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep problems
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will encounter all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Kirkwood, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and particular 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 Kirkwood, MO

Recognizing that you could have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, securing a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is key. Steer clear of physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, observing any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and treating 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 cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and decision-making abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, check-ups, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Kirkwood, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Kirkwood, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Kirkwood, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Kirkwood, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

One in five concussions take more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to address these multiple effects, enabling a more controlled and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Kirkwood, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate customized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities crafted to steadily restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to better balance and lessen 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 eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to safely 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 are able to relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education equips you to take an involved role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Kirkwood, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a dynamic approach that responds to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly enhance the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Kirkwood, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run 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 typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Kirkwood, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This vast experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the nuances of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by experienced professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take the forefront. Understanding that each concussion patient has distinct challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your particular needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our enthusiasm 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 patient-focused 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can occasionally be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the focus of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our all-encompassing approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Kirkwood, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to tackle all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Kirkwood, 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 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 Kirkwood, MO.