Concussion treatment in Old Jamestown, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require professional care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Old Jamestown, MO can be an effective 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:
- Aids in managing post-concussion symptoms
- Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
- Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms
If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, call the Axes location most convenient for you or request an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Old Jamestown, MO today.
About Concussions
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a blow to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and ability to function normally.
Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, 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 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 enough 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 length and seriousness of symptoms can vary widely depending on the individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, frequently involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are essential to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause both immediate and longer-term symptoms:
Immediate Symptoms
- Headache or a sense of pressure in the head
- Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
- A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
- A sense of dizziness or visual disorientation
- Tinnitus
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Impaired speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Tiredness
Long-Term Symptoms
- Continual headaches
- Focus and memory complaints
- Grumpiness and other mood swings
- Increased sensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep problems
- Disorders of taste and smell
- Disorders of balance and coordination
Not everyone will encounter each of these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Old Jamestown, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments suited to your needs. You can visit any of our locations for a free injury screening.
What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Old Jamestown, MO
Recognizing that you may have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you think you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s imperative to visit a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms appear mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is crucial. Steer clear of physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, 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 changes or new symptoms that occur. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and managing your concussion.
- Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
- Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.
Remember, adhering to these steps not only helps in your recovery but also reduces the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Old Jamestown, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Old Jamestown, MO
Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Old Jamestown, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also giving guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Old Jamestown, MO safely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
One in five concussions take longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to tackle these diverse effects, facilitating a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Old Jamestown, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate customized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to better balance and reduce 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 eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are essential 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 increase 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 help in restoring stamina, 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 changes in activity 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 Old Jamestown, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly improve the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and effectively.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Old Jamestown, MO
Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Old Jamestown, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Old Jamestown, MO stands out as a premier choice for many compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Old Jamestown, 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 integrated into 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 over two decades of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Old Jamestown, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This extensive 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 directed by knowledgeable professionals who are experts in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take center stage. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your particular needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A rewarding experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in establishing an environment where patients feel supported, understood, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others is evident 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 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can sometimes be overlooked in healthcare.
Comprehensive Approach to Wellness
While the emphasis of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Old Jamestown, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Old Jamestown, MO
Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Old Jamestown, 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 protected and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Old Jamestown, MO.