Concussion treatment in Doe Run, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex 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 Doe Run, MO can be an effective part of your healing journey that returns you 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 managing 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 experiencing concussion symptoms, call the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment online to begin your concussion treatment in Doe Run, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually 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 brief disruption in normal brain function, impacting cognitive processes, 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 described 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 overall health and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with high-impact or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in all athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result 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 you don’t need a direct blow to the head to get a concussion, as any action that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be adequate 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 length and intensity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the person and the details of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are crucial to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a cloud
• Feeling dizzy or visual disorientation
• Ear ringing
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Irritability and other mood changes
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• 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 essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Doe Run, 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 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 Doe Run, MO

Recognizing that you could have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should 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 feel mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial because the impacts of a concussion can be not always obvious and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is crucial. Refrain from physical activities, especially sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing 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 cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and decision-making abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations closely. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an extended physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Doe Run, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Doe Run, 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 gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Doe Run, MO with safety, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to tackle these multiple effects, enabling a more secure and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Doe Run, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to steadily restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are essential 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 designed to effectively increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. 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 associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Doe Run, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling 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 favorite activities – securely and effectively.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Doe Run, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Doe Run, MO stands out as a premier choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, deeply rooted in the Doe Run, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are part of the local fabric, Axes brings a personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a clinical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over 20 years of experience in the physical therapy industry in Doe Run, MO, Axes boasts a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This vast 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 directed by knowledgeable professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take center stage. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your particular needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to fostering an environment where patients feel encouraged, acknowledged, and motivated. Our passion 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 sets 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 refreshing approach in a world where these qualities can often 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 complete wellness is always in view. Our Doe Run, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Doe Run, MO

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