Concussion treatment in Black Jack, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that require specialized care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Black Jack, MO can be an essential part of your healing journey 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:
- Aids in easing post-concussion symptoms
- Enables earlier returns and/or shorter periods of recovery
- Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, call the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Black Jack, MO today.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a brief disruption in normal brain function, affecting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to 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 health and day-to-day life.
Concussions can occur in many different scenarios, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with high-impact or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in all 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 violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be sufficient to cause a concussion.
It’s important to note that most of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and intensity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific individual and the details of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- Headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
- Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
- A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
- Ear ringing
- Stomach upset or vomiting
- Impaired speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Fatigue
Long-Term Symptoms
- Continual headaches
- Focus and memory issues
- Irritability and other changes in mood
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep problems
- 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 persistent symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Black Jack, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and specific 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 Black Jack, MO
Acknowledging that you may have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you suspect you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms appear mild, getting a proper diagnosis is crucial because the consequences of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is crucial. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration 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 becomes essential for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
- Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and decision-making abilities could be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.
Remember, adhering to these steps not only helps in your recovery but also reduces the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Black Jack, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Black Jack, MO
Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Black Jack, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on the right rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Black Jack, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
20% concussions take longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to tackle these multiple effects, facilitating a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Black Jack, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create customized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience 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 influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual 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 involve exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to safely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education equips 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 Black Jack, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that responds to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly boost the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and successfully.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Black Jack, MO
Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Black Jack, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Black Jack, MO stands out as a leading choice for many compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Black Jack, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger 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 typical procedure.
Expertise and Experience
With over 20 years of experience in the physical therapy industry in Black Jack, MO, Axes boasts a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by skilled professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your healing 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 tailored to your unique needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A satisfactory experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in fostering an environment where patients feel supported, listened to, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others shines through 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 puts a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the significance 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 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 Black Jack, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to tackle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Black Jack, 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 Black Jack, 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 with confidence 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 Black Jack, MO.