Concussion treatment in Oakville, MO. Concussions are more than just 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 suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Oakville, MO can be an essential part of your healing journey that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and effectively.
According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research shows that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:
- Helps in easing post-concussion symptoms
- Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
- Is widely recognized as safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Oakville, MO today.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow to the head or a forceful jolt that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a brief disruption in normal brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life.
Concussions can occur in many different scenarios, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are often associated with high-impact 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 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 adequate to cause a concussion.
It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- A headache or a sense of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
- Disorientation or feeling as if in a haze
- Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
- Ear ringing
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Slowed response to questions
- Fatigue
Long-Term Symptoms
- Ongoing headaches
- Focus and memory problems
- Grumpiness and other changes in mood
- Increased sensitivity to light and noise
- Trouble sleeping
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not all individuals will experience each of these symptoms, and their severity can differ. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Oakville, 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 tailored 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 Oakville, MO
Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you believe you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be not always obvious and occasionally delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Refrain from physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any alterations or new symptoms that arise. This information is crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing and addressing your concussion.
- Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and decision-making abilities might be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations closely. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an continued physical therapy plan.
Remember, taking these steps not only assists in your recovery but also reduces the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Oakville, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Oakville, MO
Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it manages various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Oakville, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Oakville, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.
One in five concussions take longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to address these varied effects, aiding in a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Oakville, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored 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 exacerbating symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are critical 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 enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to securely 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 linked to concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.
Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Oakville, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a dynamic approach that evolves with the evolving 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 favorite activities – safely and successfully.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Oakville, MO
Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Oakville, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Oakville, MO stands out as a leading choice for several compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a locally owned entity, strongly integrated in the Oakville, MO community. This local connection builds a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are part of the local fabric, Axes brings a customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.
Expertise and Experience
With in excess of 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Oakville, MO, Axes boasts a team of highly experienced clinicians. This vast experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take the forefront. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your particular needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A satisfactory experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to establishing an environment where patients feel cared for, listened to, 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 service-oriented business, Axes sets 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 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 Oakville, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to handle all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Oakville, 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 Oakville, 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 safe and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Oakville, MO.