Concussion treatment in Horine, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are intricate 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 Horine, MO can be an effective 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 indicates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:
- Is beneficial at managing post-concussion symptoms
- Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
- Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you know is dealing with concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or request an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Horine, MO today.
What Is a Concussion?
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 brief disruption in healthy brain function, impacting mental functions, balance, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life.
Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with forceful 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 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 adequate to cause a concussion.
It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the specific individual and the details of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, often involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- A headache or a sense of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
- Disorientation or feeling as if in a cloud
- Dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
- Tinnitus
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Slowed response to questions
- Tiredness
Long-Term Symptoms
- Ongoing headaches
- Focus and memory problems
- 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 think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Horine, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored 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 Horine, MO
Recognizing that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you should 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 seem mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice and often delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is key. Refrain from physical activities, notably sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that arise. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and addressing your concussion.
- Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system should be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and cognitive 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 progressively returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.
Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Horine, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Horine, MO
Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it manages various post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Horine, 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 restoring physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Horine, MO safely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.
20% concussions need longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is essential 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 targeted approach to tackle these varied effects, aiding in a more controlled and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Horine, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to assist in the recovery of these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. 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 associated with concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education enables you to take an engaged role in your recovery.
Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Horine, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a flexible approach that evolves with the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and effectively.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Horine, MO
Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Horine, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Horine, MO stands out as a premier choice for many compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a locally operated entity, deeply rooted in the Horine, MO community. This local connection fosters a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are members of the local fabric, Axes brings a customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a clinical procedure.
Expertise and Experience
With over 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Horine, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable 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 guided by experienced professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your particular needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on long-term 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 creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication 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 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can occasionally be overlooked in healthcare.
Comprehensive Approach to Wellness
While the focus of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Horine, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Horine, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Horine, 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 securely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a safe and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Horine, MO.