Concussion Treatment in Womack, MO | Physical Therapy for Concussions

Concussion treatment in Womack, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Womack, MO can be an effective part of your recovery process 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 demonstrates that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

Aids in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or make an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Womack, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury commonly 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 temporary interference in healthy brain function, impacting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and day-to-day life.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, 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 frequently associated with high-impact 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 aggressively 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 numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and seriousness of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, often 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 not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

A headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
Ear ringing
Nausea or vomiting
Difficulty speaking clearly
Slowed response to questions
Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

Continual headaches
Concentration and memory problems
Grumpiness and other emotional changes
Sensitivity to light and noise
Sleep disturbances
Disorders of taste and smell
Disorders of balance and coordination

Not everyone will experience each of these symptoms, and their severity can differ. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Womack, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and specific 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 Womack, MO

Acknowledging that you may have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you think you have a concussion:

Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms feel mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is vital because the consequences of a concussion can be not always obvious and occasionally delayed.
Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, notably sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that arise. This information becomes crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and treating your concussion.
Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Womack, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Womack, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Womack, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on proper rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Womack, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

One in five concussions take longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to address these diverse effects, aiding in a more controlled and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Womack, MO may include:

Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create tailored recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities crafted to gradually restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to enhance balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to assist in the recovery of these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to securely increase physical activity without intensifying concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities 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 Womack, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that evolves with the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly enhance the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and successfully.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Womack, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Womack, 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 Womack, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper 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 personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a clinical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Womack, MO, Axes features 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 directed by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take center stage. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your specific needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our enthusiasm 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 care-centered business, Axes puts 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can sometimes be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the concentration 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 Womack, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

Concussion Treatment in Womack, MO | Vestibular Therapy | Physical Therapy for Concussions Near Womack

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Womack, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Womack, 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 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 Womack, MO.