Concussion treatment in Matson, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Matson, MO can be an essential part of your treatment plan 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:

• Aids in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Matson, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically 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 disruption in normal brain function, affecting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and ability to function normally.

Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with high-impact 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 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 adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• Dizziness or visual disorientation
• Tinnitus
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Fatigue

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other emotional changes
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will suffer from all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Matson, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored 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 Matson, MO

Identifying that you might 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 Immediately: It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms seem mild, getting a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts 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. Refrain from physical activities, notably sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any differences or new symptoms that arise. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in evaluating and managing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system must be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and judgment might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an continued physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Matson, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Matson, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Matson, MO with safety, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions require longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to manage these varied effects, facilitating a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Matson, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities intended to slowly restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to enhance balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to aid in restoring 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 provide treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including 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 teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education equips you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Matson, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly boost the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Matson, MO community. This local connection creates a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run 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 two decades of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Matson, MO, Axes features a team of extremely skilled 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 directed by knowledgeable professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective 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-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your particular 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 establishing an environment where patients feel supported, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a care-centered business, Axes sets 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 sometimes 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 Matson, MO team acknowledges 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 Matson, 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 Matson, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an evidence-backed treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love with confidence 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 Matson, MO.