Concussion treatment in Park Hills, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in an auto accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Park Hills, MO can be an effective part of your treatment plan that returns you 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:
- Is beneficial at easing post-concussion symptoms
- Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
- Is widely recognized as safe for concussion treatment
If you or someone you know is facing concussion symptoms, call the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Park Hills, MO today.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, affecting cognitive processes, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” However, this does not minimize 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 nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in every athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result from incidents such as slipping on ice, 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 rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be sufficient to cause a concussion.
It’s important to note that most of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are critical to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause not only immediate and extended symptoms:
Short-Term Symptoms
- A 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
- Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
- Ear ringing
- Stomach upset or vomiting
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Slowed response to questions
- Tiredness
Long-Term Symptoms
- Ongoing headaches
- Focus and memory complaints
- Grumpiness and other mood changes
- Increased 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 prolonged symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Park Hills, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the right 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 Park Hills, MO
Acknowledging that you could have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you suspect you have a concussion:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, getting a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be not always obvious and sometimes delayed.
- Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be 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 specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t Drive: Until given the green light 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, adhere to their recommendations strictly. This might include a series of steps for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.
Remember, following these steps not only helps in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Park Hills, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Park Hills, MO
Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Park Hills, 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 safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on proper rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Park Hills, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
20% concussions require longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to tackle these diverse effects, aiding in a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Park Hills, MO may include:
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities intended to slowly restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
- Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
- Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
- Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to effectively increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
- Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to deal with 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 Park Hills, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that evolves with the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly improve the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and successfully.
Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Park Hills, MO
Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Park Hills, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Park Hills, MO stands out as a leading choice for multiple compelling reasons:
Locally Owned and Operated
Axes is a community-based entity, firmly entrenched in the Park Hills, MO community. This local connection builds a greater 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 Park Hills, 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 guided by knowledgeable professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.
Patient-Centered Approach
At Axes, your healing 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 customized to your particular needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.
Commitment to Positive Outcomes
A satisfactory experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to creating an environment where patients feel cared for, listened to, and motivated. Our passion for helping others is evident 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 places 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 refreshing approach in a world where these qualities can often 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 Park Hills, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.
Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Park 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 Park Hills, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop an scientifically validated treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love with confidence and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a secure and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Park Hills, MO.