Concussion treatment in Otto, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Otto, MO can be an essential part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.

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

• Aids in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment online to initiate your concussion treatment in Otto, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is basically a type of traumatic brain injury commonly 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 brief disruption in healthy brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and ability to function normally.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto 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 every 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 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 adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a 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:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• A sense of dizziness or visual disorientation
• Ear ringing
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Concentration and memory problems
• Irritability and other emotional changes
• 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 essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Otto, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments customized 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 Otto, MO

Identifying that you might have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms appear mild, securing a proper diagnosis is crucial because the impacts of a concussion can be not always obvious and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, observing any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system ought to be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and judgment could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for progressively returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only helps in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Otto, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Otto, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Otto, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Otto, MO securely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

20% concussions require more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to address these diverse effects, aiding in a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Otto, 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 crafted to gradually restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to enhance balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as eye-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 involve exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to securely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain associated with 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 can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Otto, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly enhance 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 Otto, MO

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Otto, MO community. This local connection fosters a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are integrated into 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 over two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Otto, MO, Axes presents a team of extremely skilled 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 guided by knowledgeable professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most efficient 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 patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel supported, acknowledged, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a service-oriented 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can occasionally 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 complete wellness is always in view. Our Otto, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to handle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Otto, 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 Otto, 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 safely 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 Otto, MO.