Concussion treatment in Howell, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Howell, MO can be an integral part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love most safely and successfully.

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

• Is beneficial at decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, call the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Howell, 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 results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary interference in normal brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have significant 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 almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, 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 every athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions typically occur from incidents such as slipping on ice, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to mention that you don’t need a direct blow to the head to get a concussion, as any action that causes the brain to move violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough 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 duration and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a fog
• Dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Concentration 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

Not all individuals will encounter each of these symptoms, and their severity can differ. 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 Howell, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and particular concussion treatments suited 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 Howell, MO

Recognizing that you could have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms seem mild, getting a proper diagnosis is important because the effects 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, notably sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system must be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations strictly. This might include a series of steps for slowly returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only helps in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Howell, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Howell, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it manages various post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Howell, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on the right rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Howell, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

One in five concussions require more than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to manage these multiple effects, enabling a more controlled and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Howell, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities intended to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous 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 employ specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual 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 alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to safely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises aid in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education empowers 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 Howell, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly improve 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 Howell, MO

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Howell, 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 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 in excess of two decades of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Howell, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This vast experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities 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 effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your unique needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A positive experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on creating an environment where patients feel cared for, understood, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as pleasant and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a patient-focused 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 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 holistic approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Howell, MO team recognizes the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Howell, 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 secure and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Howell, MO.