Concussion treatment in Eureka, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Eureka, MO can be an effective part of your recovery process that returns you to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research demonstrates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Is beneficial at easing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Eureka, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by a hit to the head or a forceful jolt that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary interference in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have significant 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 almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with forceful or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in all athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result from incidents such as falling on icy surfaces, 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 rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual 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 complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a sense of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• Dizziness or visual disorientation
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other mood changes
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• 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 crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Eureka, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments tailored 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 Eureka, MO

Acknowledging that you may have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s imperative to visit a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, securing a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system must be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, avoid driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations diligently. This might include a set of instructions for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Eureka, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Eureka, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely regaining physical function and endurance, while also giving 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 Eureka, MO safely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to address these diverse effects, aiding in a more controlled and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Eureka, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored 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 aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients encounter 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 impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to assist in the recovery of these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including 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 informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to cope 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 can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Eureka, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly boost the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and successfully.

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

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Eureka, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Eureka, MO stands out as a premier choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, firmly entrenched in the Eureka, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed 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 typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over two decades of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Eureka, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most effective 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 patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in establishing an environment where patients feel supported, acknowledged, and motivated. Our passion for helping others is evident in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as positive and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a service-oriented business, Axes places 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 occasionally 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 complete wellness is always in view. Our Eureka, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to handle all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Eureka, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create 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 safe and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Eureka, MO.