Concussion treatment in Gilmore, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious 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 Gilmore, MO can be an essential part of your recovery process that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.

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

• Aids in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know is facing 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 Gilmore, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary disruption in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening 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.” However, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and day-to-day life.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, and blows to the head during daily activities. In sports, concussions are often 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 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 sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and severity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the individual and the details of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, often involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a fog
• Dizziness or visual disorientation
• Tinnitus
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Focus and memory problems
• Grumpiness 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 think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Gilmore, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and particular 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 Gilmore, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is important because the effects of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Steer clear of physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, keeping an eye on any changes or new symptoms that arise. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in evaluating and addressing 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 approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reaction times and cognitive abilities might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process 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 aids in your recovery but also reduces the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Gilmore, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Gilmore, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Gilmore, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on the right rest and gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Gilmore, MO safely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

20% concussions need more than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to manage these multiple effects, facilitating a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Gilmore, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to gradually restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to better balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ 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 offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to securely increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to manage symptoms. This education empowers you to take an involved role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Gilmore, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly improve 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 Gilmore, MO

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Gilmore, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Gilmore, MO stands out as a top choice for multiple compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Gilmore, MO community. This local connection fosters 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 tailored touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a standard procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Gilmore, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This extensive 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 experienced professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your recovery and needs take center stage. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel supported, understood, and motivated. Our passion for helping others is evident 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 places 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 emphasis of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Gilmore, MO team recognizes the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Gilmore, 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 Gilmore, 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 secure and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Gilmore, MO.