Concussion treatment in Lafayette Square, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that require expert care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Lafayette Square, MO can be an effective part of your recovery process 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
- Enables earlier returns and/or shorter periods of recovery
- Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Lafayette Square, MO today.
About Concussions
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by a hit to the head or a forceful jolt that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, influencing cognitive processes, balance, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and ability to complete daily tasks.
Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in all 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 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 sufficient to cause a concussion.
It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and intensity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause both immediate and longer-term symptoms:
Short-Term Symptoms
- Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
- Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
- Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
- Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
- Tinnitus
- Nausea or vomiting
- Impaired speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Fatigue
Long-Term Symptoms
- Continual headaches
- Concentration and memory issues
- Grumpiness and other emotional changes
- Hypersensitivity to light and noise
- Trouble sleeping
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not all individuals will suffer from 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 Lafayette Square, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments tailored to your needs. You can visit any of our locations for a free injury screening.
What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Lafayette Square, MO
Acknowledging that you may have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you think you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem 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 see a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any differences or new symptoms that arise. This information is essential for healthcare providers in evaluating and addressing your concussion.
- Stay Away From 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 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 gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.
Remember, taking these steps not only aids in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Lafayette Square, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Lafayette Square, MO
Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Lafayette Square, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on proper rest and gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Lafayette Square, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.
A fifth of concussions need more 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 specific approach to manage these varied effects, facilitating a more controlled and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Lafayette Square, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to slowly 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 enhance balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to effectively 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 are able to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips 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 Lafayette Square, 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 addressing the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly enhance the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and effectively.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Lafayette Square, MO
Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Lafayette Square, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Lafayette Square, MO stands out as a leading choice for several compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a community-based entity, firmly entrenched in the Lafayette Square, 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 part 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 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Lafayette Square, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced 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 guided by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your recovery and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A rewarding experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel encouraged, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others manifests 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 importance 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 total wellness is always in view. Our Lafayette Square, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Lafayette Square, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Lafayette Square, 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 safely 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 Lafayette Square, MO.