Concussion treatment in Parkdale, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are intricate 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 Parkdale, MO can be an essential part of your healing journey 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:

• Is beneficial at managing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier returns and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Parkdale, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury commonly caused by an impact to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in normal brain function, affecting cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with high-impact or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in every athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result 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 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 the majority of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• Dizziness or visual disorientation
• Tinnitus
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Focus and memory issues
• Grumpiness and other emotional changes
• Increased 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 are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Parkdale, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments customized 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 Parkdale, MO

Acknowledging that you could have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is vital because the consequences of a concussion can be hard to notice and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is key. Steer clear of physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that arise. This information can be essential for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system ought to 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 reaction times and cognitive abilities might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a series of steps for progressively returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, check-ups, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also reduces the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Parkdale, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Parkdale, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Parkdale, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Parkdale, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions take longer than three weeks to resolve, 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 specific approach to address these multiple effects, enabling a more secure and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Parkdale, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities intended to steadily restore normal function without exacerbating 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 improve balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are critical 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 increase neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to securely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an involved role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Parkdale, 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 addressing the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly enhance the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Parkdale, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Parkdale, MO stands out as a premier choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, strongly integrated in the Parkdale, 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 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 more than two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Parkdale, MO, Axes features a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This extensive experience is in treating 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 well-versed in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

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

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A positive experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in establishing an environment where patients feel supported, understood, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a care-centered 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 occasionally be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

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

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Parkdale, 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 Parkdale, 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 securely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a protected and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Parkdale, MO.