Concussion treatment in Sunset Hills, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Sunset Hills, MO can be an effective part of your healing journey that returns you 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:

• Aids in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier returns and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know is dealing with concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment online to initiate your concussion treatment in Sunset Hills, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, impacting mental functions, balance, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have profound 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 almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense 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 ice-related falls, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to mention that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, as any action that causes the brain to move violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are short-term 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 person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are critical to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache 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
• Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ringing in the ears
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Focus and memory problems
• Irritability and other mood changes
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals 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 lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Sunset Hills, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments suited to your needs. You can come to any of our locations for a free injury screening.

What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Sunset Hills, MO

Recognizing that you may have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms seem mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is key. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in evaluating and addressing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system must be avoided unless explicitly 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 decision-making abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a set of instructions for progressively 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 reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Sunset Hills, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Sunset Hills, MO

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

20% concussions take more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to address these multiple effects, facilitating a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Sunset Hills, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to securely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises aid in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to manage symptoms. This education empowers you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Sunset Hills, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly improve the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Sunset Hills, 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 integrated into 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 expertise in the physical therapy industry in Sunset Hills, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable 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 experienced professionals who are experts in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your recovery and needs take the forefront. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your particular needs, helping you resume 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 takes pride in creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, understood, and motivated. Our dedication 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 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 focus 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 Sunset Hills, MO team understands the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Sunset Hills, 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 Sunset Hills, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create an scientifically validated 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 Sunset Hills, MO.