Concussion treatment in Meacham Park, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that require specialized care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Meacham Park, MO can be an integral part of your treatment plan 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
• Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know is experiencing concussion symptoms, call the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Meacham Park, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury commonly caused by an impact to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, balance, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to 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 health and ability to function normally.

Concussions can occur in many different scenarios, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are often associated with forceful 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 slipping on ice, 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 rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are essential to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and prolonged 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 fog
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ringing in the ears
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Concentration and memory issues
• Grumpiness and other mood swings
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep problems
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Which symptoms you experience and how long they last depend on your specific injury and situation. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Meacham Park, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and particular 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 Meacham Park, MO

Acknowledging that you may have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you suspect you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to visit a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Refrain from physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that occur. This information is essential for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system must be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a set of instructions for slowly returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, check-ups, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only assists in your recovery but also lowers the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Meacham Park, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Meacham Park, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Meacham Park, 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 appropriate rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Meacham Park, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to address these varied effects, facilitating a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Meacham Park, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create tailored 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 exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to enhance balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize 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 comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to securely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential 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 changes in activity and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Meacham Park, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly improve the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and successfully.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Meacham Park, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Meacham Park, MO stands out as a leading choice for multiple compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, firmly entrenched in the Meacham Park, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are part of 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 more than 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Meacham Park, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad 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 led by experienced professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take the forefront. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your unique needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, understood, and motivated. Our passion 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 places a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the significance 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 often 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 Meacham Park, MO team understands the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Meacham Park, MO

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