Concussion treatment in Augusta, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Augusta, MO can be an effective part of your recovery process that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.

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

• Is beneficial at easing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love is dealing with concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Augusta, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly caused by an impact to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary interference in normal brain function, affecting cognitive processes, balance, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and day-to-day life.

Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, 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 any 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 note 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 enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and severity 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 gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
• Ringing in the ears
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Focus and memory complaints
• Irritability and other mood changes
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• 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 suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Augusta, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments customized to your needs. You can visit any of our locations for a free injury screening.

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

Identifying that you might 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 Immediately: It’s crucial to visit a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, securing a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and occasionally delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Refrain from physical activities, especially sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, noting any changes 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 impact the nervous system must be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for progressively returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only aids in your recovery but also lowers the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Augusta, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Augusta, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it manages various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Augusta, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on the right rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Augusta, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to tackle these diverse effects, facilitating a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Augusta, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities intended 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 includes exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ 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 involve exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to securely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring 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 linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Augusta, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that evolves with the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly improve the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and effectively.

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

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Augusta, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Augusta, MO stands out as a top choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, firmly entrenched in the Augusta, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are members of the local fabric, Axes brings a tailored touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a standard procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With in excess of 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Augusta, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This vast experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the nuances of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by experienced professionals who are experts 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 individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your particular needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in establishing an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others is evident in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as pleasant and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a care-centered business, Axes sets a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the power 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 welcomed change 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 all-encompassing approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Augusta, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to handle all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Augusta, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop an evidence-backed 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 complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Augusta, MO.