Concussion Treatment in Hematite, MO | Physical Therapy for Concussions

Concussion treatment in Hematite, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are serious 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 Hematite, MO can be an integral part of your recovery process that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

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

Is beneficial at easing post-concussion symptoms
Allows for earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know is facing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or make an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Hematite, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in healthy brain function, affecting mental functions, physical coordination, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and ability to function normally.

Concussions can occur in many different scenarios, 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 commonly associated with forceful or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in any 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 aggressively inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

A headache or a sense of pressure in the head
Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
Confusion or feeling as if in a haze
Feeling dizzy or visual disorientation
Ringing in the ears
Nausea or vomiting
Impaired speech
Delayed response to questions
Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

Ongoing headaches
Focus and memory issues
Grumpiness and other changes in mood
Hypersensitivity 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 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 Hematite, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the suitable 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 Hematite, MO

Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you think you have a concussion:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms appear mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the impacts of a concussion can be not always obvious and sometimes delayed.
Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that emerge. This information is essential for healthcare providers in assessing and addressing your concussion.
Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system should be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reaction times and decision-making abilities might be impaired.
Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for slowly returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Hematite, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Hematite, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Hematite, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Hematite, MO safely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

20% concussions take more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to address these multiple effects, aiding in a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Hematite, MO may include:

Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create individualized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to steadily restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly 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 crafted to securely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to manage symptoms. This education enables you to take an involved role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Hematite, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a dynamic approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly improve the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, strongly integrated in the Hematite, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are integrated into the local fabric, Axes brings a personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With in excess of two decades of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Hematite, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by experienced professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most efficient 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 patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your specific needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A positive experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, understood, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others is evident in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a patient-focused business, Axes puts 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 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 total wellness is always in view. Our Hematite, MO team understands the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to handle all aspects of your health.

Concussion Treatment in Hematite, MO | Vestibular Therapy | Physical Therapy for Concussions Near Hematite

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Hematite, 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 Hematite, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create 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 secure and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Hematite, MO.