Concussion treatment in Lakeshire, MO. Concussions are more than just 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 experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Lakeshire, MO can be an integral part of your recovery process that returns you to the activities you love most safely 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 comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
- Is widely recognized as safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you know is dealing with concussion symptoms, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Lakeshire, MO today.
About Concussions
A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a brief disruption in healthy brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have significant 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 virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly 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 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 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 temporary and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and seriousness of symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are critical to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause not only immediate and prolonged symptoms:
Short-Term Symptoms
- 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
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Slowed response to questions
- Exhaustion
Long-Term Symptoms
- Ongoing headaches
- Focus and memory problems
- Grumpiness and other changes in mood
- Hypersensitivity to light and noise
- Trouble sleeping
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not all individuals will suffer from each of these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Lakeshire, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments suited 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 Lakeshire, MO
Acknowledging that you could have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should 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. Refrain from physical activities, notably sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing your concussion.
- Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system should 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 cognitive abilities could be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an continued physical therapy plan.
Remember, adhering to these steps not only helps in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Lakeshire, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Lakeshire, MO
Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Lakeshire, 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 the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on the right rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Lakeshire, MO securely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.
A fifth of concussions take more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to address these multiple effects, facilitating a more secure and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Lakeshire, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use 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 frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to securely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises aid in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential 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 manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an involved role in your recovery.
Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Lakeshire, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly boost the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and successfully.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Lakeshire, MO
Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Lakeshire, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Lakeshire, MO stands out as a premier choice for many compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a community-based entity, firmly entrenched in the Lakeshire, MO community. This local connection builds a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are members of 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 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Lakeshire, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This vast 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 directed by skilled professionals who are highly proficient 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 patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your particular needs, helping you return to 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 fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, listened to, 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 care-centered business, Axes places 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 focus 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 Lakeshire, MO team recognizes the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to handle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Lakeshire, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Lakeshire, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop 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 protected and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Lakeshire, MO.