Concussion treatment in Shrewsbury, 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 experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Shrewsbury, MO can be an essential part of your healing journey that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and effectively.

According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research shows that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Helps in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Shrewsbury, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a brief disruption in healthy brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, 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.” Nevertheless, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during daily activities. In sports, concussions are often associated with high-impact 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 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 aggressively inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• A sense of dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Tinnitus
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Delayed response to questions
• Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Focus and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other mood swings
• 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 think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Shrewsbury, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right 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 Shrewsbury, MO

Acknowledging that you may 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 see a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms appear mild, getting a proper diagnosis is important because the consequences of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any differences or new symptoms that arise. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, avoid driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only aids in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Shrewsbury, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Shrewsbury, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Shrewsbury, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on proper rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Shrewsbury, MO with safety, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

20% concussions take longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to manage these multiple effects, enabling a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Shrewsbury, 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 designed to steadily restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to better balance and reduce 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 eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to safely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Shrewsbury, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, strongly integrated in the Shrewsbury, MO community. This local connection creates a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run by physical therapists who are members of the local fabric, Axes brings a personalized 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 Shrewsbury, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced clinicians. This vast 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 guided by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take center stage. 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 specific needs, helping you get back 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 as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, understood, and motivated. Our enthusiasm 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 patient-focused business, Axes puts 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can occasionally 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 overall wellness is always in view. Our Shrewsbury, MO team understands the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Shrewsbury, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Shrewsbury, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop 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 secure and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Shrewsbury, MO.