Physical Therapy for Concussions in Kansas City
Concussion Management in Kansas City
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affect the way your brain functions. The effects are often temporary but can lead to lasting issues if not dealt with properly. Concussions are usually caused by a blow to the head or violent shaking of the head and upper body. The brain is cushioned by spinal fluid inside of the skull to help protect it from trauma. When a concussion occurs, it can jolt the brain and cause excessive movement or friction. A concussion can affect memory, judgement, reflexes, speech, balance and muscle coordination. Every concussion is a serious injury and seeking prompt medical attention is advised.
Post-concussive syndrome (PCS) is a set of symptoms that remain for weeks, months, or even up to a year after a concussion has occurred. PCS is a condition that needs to be monitored during the rehabilitation process, especially once the patient has returned to sport. Consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist if you suspect you have PCS.
Concussion Symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea
- Ringing in the Ears
- Dizziness
- Fatigue and tiredness
- A foggy feeling or not feeling like yourself
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Difficulty concentrating
- Seizure
- Inability to wake up
- Headache that gets worse or does not go away
- Uncontrollable vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness
Treatments for Concussions
F.I.T. Muscle & Joint Clinic provides physical therapy for concussions by first performing a thorough interview and evaluation to understand the symptoms you are experiencing. Our physical therapists will conduct testing in categories such as vision, muscle strength, coordination, reflexes, hearing, smell, and memory. We will also examine the musculoskeletal system, especially the cervical spine due to a high risk of injury to the spine associated with a concussion.
Our Treatment Process
Treatment for a concussion begins with an exam by your healthcare provider regarding the severity of your symptoms. Each concussion is different and no two are alike, so each treatment will be unique. Your healthcare provider may order imaging such as a CT scan to see more details of the concussion, or if internal bleeding has occurred. During the exam, they will check vision, balance, coordination and reflexes and possibly memory and thinking. Once the exam is complete, a rehabilitation protocol will be implemented.
Rest and recovery
Strength training
Oculo-motor training
Reflex and reaction training
Vestibular (balance and dizziness) re-education
Headache management
Return to sport protocol
Possible Treatments for Concussions
Active Release Technique
Active Release Technique (A.R.T) is one of the leading soft tissue therapies for the treatment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves.
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Rehabilitation Exercises
Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Exercise that favors quality movements over quantity of reps is key to restoring proper function.
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Concussion Management
Concussions classified as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and are as unique as the patient themselves.
Learn MoreAre you suffering from a Concussion?
Take a couple of minutes to tell us about your symptoms and pain areas. Prefer to chat over the phone? Call us for a free phone consultation.
Visit your local F.I.T. Physical Therapist
Meet the team at any of our 10 locations: Lee’s Summit, Liberty, Crossroads, Blue Valley, Leawood, Paola, Olathe, Overland Park, Kansas City & Shawnee.
