Concussion Treatment in Preston Woods, MO | Physical Therapy for Concussions

Concussion treatment in Preston Woods, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that require professional care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Preston Woods, MO can be an integral part of your recovery process that returns you to the activities you love most safely and successfully.

Based on research from the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

Helps in managing post-concussion symptoms
Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
Is widely recognized as safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love is dealing with concussion symptoms, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Preston Woods, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by an impact to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a brief disruption in healthy brain function, impacting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening 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 overall health and day-to-day life.

Concussions can occur in many different scenarios, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto 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 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 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 aggressively inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can vary widely 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 complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

Pain in the head or a sense of pressure in the head
Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
Dizziness or visual disorientation
Ringing in the ears
Nausea or vomiting
Difficulty speaking clearly
Delayed response to questions
Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

Ongoing headaches
Concentration and memory issues
Irritability and other mood swings
Increased sensitivity to light and noise
Sleep disturbances
Disorders of taste and smell
Disorders of balance and coordination

Not everyone will suffer from all these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Preston Woods, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and particular 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 Preston Woods, MO

Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you suspect you have a concussion:

Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting 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 key. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information becomes crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system should be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reaction times and cognitive abilities might be impaired.
Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only aids in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Preston Woods, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Preston Woods, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Preston Woods, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Preston Woods, MO safely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

20% concussions take longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to tackle these multiple effects, aiding in a safer and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Preston Woods, MO may include:

Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities designed to gradually restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to better balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to securely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring stamina, 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 vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to manage symptoms. This education enables 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 Preston Woods, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that adapts to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly enhance the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Preston Woods, MO community. This local connection builds a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are integrated into the local fabric, Axes brings a customized 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 Preston Woods, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This extensive experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by experienced professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized 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 as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in creating an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our passion for helping others manifests 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 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 breath of fresh air 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 complete wellness is always in view. Our Preston Woods, MO team recognizes the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to tackle all aspects of your health.

Concussion Treatment in Preston Woods, MO | Vestibular Therapy | Physical Therapy for Concussions Near Preston Woods

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Preston Woods, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Preston Woods, 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 with confidence 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 Preston Woods, MO.