Concussion treatment in Bonne Terre, MO. Concussions are far beyond 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 Bonne Terre, MO can be an essential part of your recovery process that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.
Based on research from the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:
- Is beneficial at decreasing post-concussion symptoms
- Facilitates earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
- Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or make an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Bonne Terre, MO today.
About Concussions
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life.
Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and blows to the head during daily 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 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 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 transient and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause not only immediate and extended symptoms:
Short-Term Symptoms
- Pain in the head or a sensation of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
- Disorientation or feeling as if in a cloud
- Dizziness or visual disorientation
- Tinnitus
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Delayed response to questions
- Tiredness
Lingering Symptoms
- Persistent headaches
- Concentration and memory issues
- Irritability and other mood changes
- Hypersensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep problems
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not all individuals will suffer from each of these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Bonne Terre, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the suitable 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 Bonne Terre, MO
Recognizing that you could have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you suspect you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice and occasionally delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is crucial. Avoid physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
- Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system should be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and decision-making abilities might be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.
Remember, taking these steps not only aids in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Bonne Terre, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Bonne Terre, MO
Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Bonne Terre, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on the right rest and gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Bonne Terre, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.
A fifth of concussions take longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to manage these diverse effects, facilitating a more secure and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Bonne Terre, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create customized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities intended to gradually restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an active role in your recovery.
Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Bonne Terre, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that evolves with the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly enhance the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and successfully.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Bonne Terre, MO
Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Bonne Terre, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Bonne Terre, MO stands out as a premier choice for multiple compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a community-based entity, strongly integrated in the Bonne Terre, MO community. This local connection builds a stronger 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 two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Bonne Terre, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by skilled professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your healing and needs take the forefront. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your unique needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A positive experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, understood, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as positive 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 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can sometimes be overlooked in healthcare.
Comprehensive Approach to Wellness
While the emphasis 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 Bonne Terre, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to handle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Bonne Terre, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Bonne Terre, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop 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 protected and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Bonne Terre, MO.