Concussion treatment in Hillsboro, 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 an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Hillsboro, MO can be an essential part of your recovery process that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and successfully.

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

• Helps in managing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, contact the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Hillsboro, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by an impact to the head or a forceful jolt that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and quality of life.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in all athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions typically occur 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 you don’t need a direct blow to the head to get a concussion, 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 the majority of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and seriousness of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper 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 not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
• Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• A sense of dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Tinnitus
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Concentration and memory issues
• Irritability and other mood swings
• Sensitivity 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 are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Hillsboro, 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 visit any of our locations for a free injury screening.

What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Hillsboro, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms seem 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 essential. Refrain from physical activities, especially 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: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that arise. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and treating 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 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, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a series of steps for progressively returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, check-ups, or an extended physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Hillsboro, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Hillsboro, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on the right rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Hillsboro, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions require more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to manage these varied effects, enabling a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Hillsboro, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate tailored recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to improve balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use 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 often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to safely 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 have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to manage symptoms. This education empowers you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Hillsboro, MO is not a one-size-fits-all 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 enhance the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and successfully.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Hillsboro, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Hillsboro, MO stands out as a leading choice for multiple compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Hillsboro, MO community. This local connection creates 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 typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With more than 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Hillsboro, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the nuances of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by experienced professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take the forefront. 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 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 takes pride in establishing an environment where patients feel encouraged, acknowledged, 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 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 welcomed change 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 comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Hillsboro, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Hillsboro, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create an evidence-backed 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 comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Hillsboro, MO.