Concussion Treatment in Wilbur Park, MO | Physical Therapy for Concussions

Concussion treatment in Wilbur Park, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require specialized care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Wilbur Park, MO can be an essential part of your recovery process that returns you to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.

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

Aids in managing post-concussion symptoms
Facilitates earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Wilbur Park, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by an impact to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a brief disruption in healthy brain function, impacting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, 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 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 rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be sufficient 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 extent and severity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific individual and the details of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, frequently involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial 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:

Short-Term Symptoms

A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
Ringing in the ears
Stomach upset or vomiting
Impaired speech
Delayed response to questions
Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

Persistent headaches
Concentration and memory problems
Irritability and other mood swings
Hypersensitivity to light and noise
Sleep problems
Disorders of taste and smell
Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will suffer from all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Wilbur Park, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and specific 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 Wilbur Park, MO

Recognizing 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 think you have a concussion:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts of a concussion can be not always obvious and occasionally delayed.
Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is crucial. Refrain from physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing your concussion.
Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system ought to be avoided unless explicitly 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 closely. This might include a set of instructions for progressively returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only helps in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Wilbur Park, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Wilbur Park, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Wilbur Park, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on appropriate rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Wilbur Park, MO safely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions require longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to manage these diverse effects, enabling a more secure and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Wilbur Park, MO may include:

Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities crafted to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to enhance balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to securely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education enables you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Wilbur Park, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly improve the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and successfully.

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

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Wilbur Park, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Wilbur Park, MO stands out as a premier choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Wilbur Park, MO community. This local connection builds 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 Wilbur Park, MO, Axes boasts a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad 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 led by skilled professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective 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 specific needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory 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, listened to, 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 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 sometimes be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the concentration 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 Wilbur Park, MO team recognizes the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to handle all aspects of your health.

Concussion Treatment in Wilbur Park, MO | Vestibular Therapy | Physical Therapy for Concussions Near Wilbur Park

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Wilbur Park, 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 Wilbur Park, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an scientifically validated 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 safe and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Wilbur Park, MO.