Concussion treatment in Pacific, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that require expert care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Pacific, MO can be an effective part of your healing journey that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

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

• Is beneficial at easing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love is experiencing concussion symptoms, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Pacific, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a brief disruption in healthy brain function, influencing cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and ability to function normally.

Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in any athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions typically occur from incidents such as slipping on ice, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to note that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, 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 transient and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are critical to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• Feeling dizzy or visual disorientation
• Tinnitus
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Tiredness

Long-Term Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Focus and memory complaints
• Irritability and other mood changes
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep problems
• 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 prolonged symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Pacific, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments suited 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 Pacific, MO

Recognizing that you may have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you suspect you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid 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 might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, observing any differences or new symptoms that occur. This information is essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and addressing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically 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, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a series of steps for progressively returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only helps in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Pacific, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Pacific, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Pacific, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Pacific, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

One in five concussions require longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to tackle these multiple effects, facilitating a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Pacific, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities intended to steadily restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to improve balance and lessen 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 critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to securely 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 can relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Pacific, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly enhance the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and effectively.

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

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Pacific, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Pacific, MO stands out as a premier choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, strongly integrated in the Pacific, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are part of 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 two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Pacific, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by experienced professionals who are experts in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A positive experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication 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 places a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the power 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 refreshing approach in a world where these qualities can occasionally 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 overall wellness is always in view. Our Pacific, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

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