Concussion treatment in Murphy, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Murphy, MO can be an integral part of your recovery process that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and effectively.

Based on research from the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Helps in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Murphy, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary interference in normal brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why 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 ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with high-impact 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 ice-related falls, 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 rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be adequate to cause a concussion.

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

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ringing in the ears
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory issues
• Irritability and other changes in mood
• Increased 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 suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Murphy, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and specific 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 Murphy, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s imperative to see a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial because the consequences of a concussion can be not always obvious and occasionally delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is essential. Refrain from physical activities, notably sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, keeping an eye on any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence 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 reaction times and decision-making abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for progressively returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Murphy, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Murphy, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Murphy, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely regaining physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Murphy, MO safely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

20% concussions require longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to manage these varied effects, facilitating a safer and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Murphy, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate customized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to gradually restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to assist in the recovery of these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to manage symptoms. This education enables you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Murphy, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly boost the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, deeply rooted in the Murphy, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run by physical therapists who are integrated into 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 more than 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Murphy, MO, Axes presents a team of extremely skilled 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 experts in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take center stage. Understanding that each concussion patient has distinct challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, helping you get back 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 as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to establishing an environment where patients feel cared for, understood, and motivated. Our enthusiasm 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 puts 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 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 all-encompassing approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Murphy, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to handle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Murphy, 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 Murphy, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop 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 protected and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Murphy, MO.