Concussion treatment in Catawissa, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require professional care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Catawissa, MO can be an integral part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love most safely and effectively.
According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research demonstrates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:
- Aids in managing post-concussion symptoms
- Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
- Is widely recognized as safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you know is experiencing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Catawissa, MO today.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by an impact to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary disruption in normal brain function, impacting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” However, 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 accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are often associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in every 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 mention 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 adequate to cause a concussion.
It’s important to note that many of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, often 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 both immediate and extended symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- Headache or a sense of pressure in the head
- Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
- A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
- Ringing in the ears
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Fatigue
Lingering Symptoms
- Ongoing headaches
- Focus and memory complaints
- Irritability and other mood swings
- Hypersensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep disturbances
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not all individuals will suffer from each of these symptoms, and their severity can differ. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Catawissa, 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 tailored 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 Catawissa, MO
Recognizing that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you believe you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to visit a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, getting a proper diagnosis is important because the consequences of a concussion can be not always obvious and sometimes delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, especially sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
- Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system must be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and judgment might be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.
Remember, taking these steps not only helps in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Catawissa, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Catawissa, MO
Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Catawissa, 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 restoring physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Catawissa, MO safely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
A fifth of concussions need longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to address these diverse effects, aiding in a safer and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Catawissa, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop customized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to gradually restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize 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 include exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid 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 crucial part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to cope 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 Catawissa, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that responds to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly improve the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Catawissa, MO
Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Catawissa, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Catawissa, MO stands out as a top choice for many compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Catawissa, 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 personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a standard procedure.
Expertise and Experience
With over 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Catawissa, MO, Axes boasts a team of highly experienced clinicians. This vast experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by knowledgeable professionals who are experts in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your recovery and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your unique needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A rewarding experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others is evident in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable 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 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 often 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 Catawissa, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to handle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Catawissa, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Catawissa, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an evidence-backed treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love securely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a secure and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Catawissa, MO.