Concussion treatment in West Alton, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in West Alton, MO can be an essential part of your recovery process 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:

• Aids in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is experiencing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in West Alton, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, influencing cognitive processes, balance, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life.

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 commonly 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 typically occur 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 a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, as any action that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the specific individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
• Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• A sense of dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Ringing in the ears
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Fatigue

Long-Term Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory issues
• Irritability and other changes in mood
• 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 lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in West Alton, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments suited 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 West Alton, MO

Identifying that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you think 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 feel mild, securing a proper diagnosis is vital because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is key. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that arise. This information is crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing 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 cleared by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your reflexes and decision-making abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only helps in your recovery but also reduces the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in West Alton, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in West Alton, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed treatment plans. West Alton, 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 the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in West Alton, MO safely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

20% concussions require longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to address these multiple effects, enabling a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in West Alton, MO may include:

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

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in West Alton, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a dynamic approach that adapts to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly improve the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and successfully.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in West Alton, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in West Alton, MO stands out as a leading choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, firmly entrenched in the West Alton, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper 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 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 expertise in the physical therapy industry in West Alton, MO, Axes boasts a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This extensive experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by knowledgeable professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most efficient 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 patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your particular needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on establishing an environment where patients feel encouraged, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication 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 service-oriented 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 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 comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our West Alton, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in West Alton, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in West Alton, 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 securely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a safe and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in West Alton, MO.