Concussion treatment in Antonia, MO. Concussions are more than just 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 Antonia, MO can be an integral part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and successfully.

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

• Is beneficial at managing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, contact the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Antonia, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in normal brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. 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 diminish 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 happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with high-impact or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in any 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 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 aggressively inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and management, frequently involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• A headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a haze
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other mood swings
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not everyone will experience all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Antonia, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments customized 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 Antonia, MO

Recognizing that you might have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms appear mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is crucial. Avoid physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information is crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and judgment might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only assists in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Antonia, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Antonia, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Antonia, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also giving guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Antonia, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to address these multiple effects, enabling a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Antonia, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities crafted to slowly 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 includes exercises to enhance balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to safely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including modifying activities 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 may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Antonia, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly boost the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.

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

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Antonia, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Antonia, MO stands out as a top choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Antonia, MO community. This local connection fosters a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated 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 more than 20 years of experience in the physical therapy industry in Antonia, 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 directed by knowledgeable professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your specific needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on creating an environment where patients feel cared for, understood, and motivated. Our passion 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 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can often be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the focus of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our holistic approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Antonia, MO team understands the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to tackle all aspects of your health.

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

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