Concussion treatment in Osage Hills, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require expert care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Osage Hills, MO can be an essential part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research demonstrates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Is beneficial at managing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for 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, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Osage Hills, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by a hit to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a brief disruption in healthy brain function, impacting cognitive processes, balance, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why 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 health and day-to-day life.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during daily activities. In sports, concussions are commonly 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 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 violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, frequently involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• A 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
• Dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Ringing in the ears
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Concentration and memory problems
• Grumpiness and other changes in mood
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep problems
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not every person will encounter each of these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Osage Hills, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and particular concussion treatments tailored 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 Osage Hills, MO

Identifying that you could have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you should 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, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is key. Avoid physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, keeping an eye on any alterations or new symptoms that occur. This information becomes crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system ought to be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and judgment might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations closely. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only aids in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Osage Hills, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Osage Hills, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Osage Hills, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on the right rest and gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Osage Hills, MO securely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

20% concussions take longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to tackle these multiple effects, facilitating a more controlled and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Osage Hills, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate tailored recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to steadily restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use 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 offer treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to effectively increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is teaching 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 Osage Hills, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a flexible 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 greatly improve the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, firmly entrenched in the Osage Hills, MO community. This local connection creates a deeper 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 personalized 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 experience in the physical therapy industry in Osage Hills, MO, Axes boasts a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This extensive experience is in treating a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by experienced professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your recovery and needs take the forefront. Understanding that each concussion patient has distinct challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your particular needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on quality 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 creating an environment where patients feel supported, acknowledged, and motivated. Our passion for helping others shines through 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 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 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 Osage Hills, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to handle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Osage Hills, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Osage Hills, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create an scientifically validated treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love safely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a protected and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Osage Hills, MO.