Concussion treatment in Pevely, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that require professional care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Pevely, MO can be an essential part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and effectively.
According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research indicates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:
- Is beneficial at decreasing post-concussion symptoms
- Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
- Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms
If you or someone you know is facing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Pevely, MO today.
About Concussions
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a brief disruption in healthy brain function, impacting cognitive processes, balance, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and day-to-day life.
Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with forceful or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in any 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 violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.
It’s important to note that most of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause not only immediate and longer-term symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- Pain in the head or a sense of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
- Disorientation or feeling as if in a cloud
- Dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
- Ear ringing
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Slowed response to questions
- Exhaustion
Lingering Symptoms
- Persistent headaches
- Concentration and memory problems
- Irritability and other emotional changes
- Hypersensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep disturbances
- 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 prolonged symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Pevely, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and particular concussion treatments tailored 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 Pevely, MO
Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you suspect you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms seem mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the effects of a concussion can be subtle and sometimes delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is essential. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information becomes valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and addressing your concussion.
- Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system must be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities might 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, check-ups, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.
Remember, following these steps not only assists in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Pevely, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Pevely, MO
Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Pevely, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease 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 the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Pevely, MO with safety, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.
A fifth of concussions take more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to tackle these diverse effects, enabling a safer and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Pevely, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create customized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities intended to gradually restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to assist in the recovery of these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without intensifying concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is educating 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 Pevely, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that evolves with the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly improve 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 Pevely, MO
Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Pevely, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Pevely, MO stands out as a top choice for many compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a locally operated entity, deeply rooted in the Pevely, MO community. This local connection builds 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 tailored touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.
Expertise and Experience
With more than 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Pevely, MO, Axes boasts a team of highly experienced clinicians. This extensive experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities 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 priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your specific needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on quality 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 cared for, understood, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others is evident 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 sets 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 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 holistic approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Pevely, MO team recognizes the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Pevely, 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 Pevely, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish 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 protected and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Pevely, MO.