Concussion treatment in Josephville, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require specialized care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Josephville, MO can be an integral part of your healing journey 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 shows that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Is beneficial at easing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know is experiencing 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 Josephville, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a brief disruption in healthy brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and ability to function normally.

Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are often associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, 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 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 sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
• Ear ringing
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Irritability and other mood swings
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not every person will suffer from each of these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Josephville, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments customized 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 Josephville, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, getting a proper diagnosis is crucial because the consequences of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Steer clear of physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system must be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and judgment could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations closely. This might include a gradual process for progressively returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only aids in your recovery but also lowers the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Josephville, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Josephville, MO

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

One in five concussions take longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to tackle these diverse effects, aiding in a more secure and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Josephville, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate customized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities crafted to slowly restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to better balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize 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 commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises assist in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial 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 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 Josephville, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly improve the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Josephville, MO community. This local connection creates a greater 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 more than 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Josephville, MO, Axes boasts a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by skilled professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored 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 equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel encouraged, understood, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as positive 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 breath of fresh air 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 all-encompassing approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Josephville, MO team recognizes the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

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

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