Concussion treatment in Washington, 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 a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Washington, MO can be an essential part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love most safely and effectively.

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
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Washington, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by an impact to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, influencing cognitive processes, balance, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause 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 significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are often associated with forceful or contact sports like football and hockey, 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 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 many of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate 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
• Dizziness or visual disorientation
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

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

Not everyone will encounter all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Washington, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments suited 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 Washington, MO

Recognizing 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 suspect you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is crucial. Avoid physical activities, especially sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, observing any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in evaluating and managing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system must be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your reflexes and cognitive abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations closely. This might include a series of steps for slowly returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only aids in your recovery but also reduces the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Washington, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Washington, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Washington, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on the right rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Washington, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions require more than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to manage these varied effects, aiding in a more secure and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Washington, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create tailored recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to gradually restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to better balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education equips 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 Washington, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and effectively.

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

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Washington, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Washington, MO stands out as a premier choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, deeply rooted in the Washington, MO community. This local connection creates a greater 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 tailored 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 leadership in the physical therapy industry in Washington, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced clinicians. This extensive experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by knowledgeable professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your recovery and needs take center stage. Understanding that each concussion patient has unique challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your particular needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, understood, and motivated. Our enthusiasm 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 care-centered 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 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 all-encompassing approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Washington, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to tackle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Washington, 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 Washington, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop an evidence-backed 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 safe and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Washington, MO.