Concussion treatment in Ethlyn, 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 Ethlyn, MO can be an effective 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 easing post-concussion symptoms
- Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
- Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms
If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Ethlyn, MO today.
Understanding Concussions
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a hit to the head or a forceful jolt that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall 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, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with high-impact or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in any athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result 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 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 short-term and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are critical to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause not only immediate and longer-term symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- Pain in the head or a sense of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
- Confusion or feeling as if in a haze
- A sense of dizziness or “seeing stars”
- Tinnitus
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Slowed response to questions
- Tiredness
Lingering Symptoms
- Ongoing headaches
- Concentration and memory problems
- Grumpiness and other mood changes
- Increased sensitivity to light and noise
- Trouble sleeping
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not everyone will experience each of these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Ethlyn, 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 suited to your needs. You can go to any of our locations for a free injury screening.
What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Ethlyn, MO
Recognizing that you might have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you suspect you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to visit a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms appear mild, securing a proper diagnosis is vital because the consequences of a concussion can be not always obvious and often delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information becomes valuable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and addressing your concussion.
- Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities might be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.
Remember, following these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Ethlyn, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Ethlyn, MO
Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Ethlyn, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely regaining physical function and endurance, while also giving guidance on the right rest and gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Ethlyn, MO with safety, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.
A fifth of concussions need more than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to address these diverse effects, aiding in a more controlled and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Ethlyn, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities designed to steadily restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to improve balance and minimize 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 eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to manage symptoms. This education empowers 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 Ethlyn, 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 targeting the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly enhance 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 Ethlyn, MO
Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Ethlyn, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Ethlyn, 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 Ethlyn, MO community. This local connection fosters a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run by physical therapists who are integrated into the local fabric, Axes brings a customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a standard procedure.
Expertise and Experience
With more than 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Ethlyn, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take center stage. Understanding that each concussion patient has unique challenges and recovery trajectories, 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 sustainable and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A rewarding experience during your recovery is just as crucial 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 manifests 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 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 refreshing approach 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 comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Ethlyn, MO team understands the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to tackle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Ethlyn, 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 Ethlyn, 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 securely 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 Ethlyn, MO.