Concussion treatment in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO. Concussions are not merely a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that require specialized care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO can be an essential part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

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

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

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, call the Axes location most convenient for you or make an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary interference in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health 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 soccer, but they can occur in all 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 violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and intensity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific individual and the details of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are essential 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

• Pain in the head or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Fatigue

Long-Term Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Concentration and memory issues
• Irritability and other changes in mood
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep problems
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will encounter each of these symptoms, and their severity can differ. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate 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 Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO

Recognizing that you may have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to visit a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is important because the consequences of a concussion can be hard to notice and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Moreover, 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 alterations or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system must be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your reflexes and cognitive abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only assists in your recovery but also lowers the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to address these varied effects, facilitating a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create customized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities intended to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to better balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to securely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key 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 might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly boost the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, firmly entrenched in the Bellefontaine Neighbors, 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 members of the local fabric, Axes brings a tailored touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With in excess of 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced clinicians. This extensive experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the nuances of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by skilled professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your recovery and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has distinct challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your unique 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 establishing an environment where patients feel cared for, listened to, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as positive and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a care-centered business, Axes sets 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 often be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the focus of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO team understands the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to tackle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the appropriate care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish 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 protected and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO.