Concussion treatment in Defiance, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that require expert care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Defiance, MO can be an integral part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love most safely and successfully.

Based on research from the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Aids in managing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Defiance, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is basically a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health 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, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, 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 mention that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, 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 many of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the specific individual and the details of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are crucial 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
• Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Tinnitus
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory issues
• Irritability and other changes in mood
• 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 differ. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Defiance, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and particular concussion treatments tailored 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 Defiance, MO

Acknowledging that you may have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you suspect you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting a proper diagnosis is crucial because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice 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 may result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any changes or new symptoms that occur. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system must be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations closely. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Defiance, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Defiance, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Defiance, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on the right rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Defiance, MO with safety, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

20% concussions need more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to tackle these varied effects, facilitating a safer and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Defiance, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate tailored recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities crafted to slowly restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as eye-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 include exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to safely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises help 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 key part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Defiance, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost 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 Defiance, MO

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Defiance, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Defiance, MO stands out as a leading choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Defiance, MO community. This local connection fosters a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed 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 more than two decades of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Defiance, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by experienced professionals who are experts in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your specific needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory 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, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as pleasant 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 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 holistic approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Defiance, MO team recognizes the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Defiance, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an research-supported treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love safely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a protected and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Defiance, MO.