Concussion treatment in Bridgeton, 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 suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Bridgeton, MO can be an integral part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.

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

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

If you or someone you know is facing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Bridgeton, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary disruption in healthy brain function, impacting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and day-to-day life.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for almost 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 ice-related falls, 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 enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• Feeling dizzy or “seeing stars”
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Irritability and other emotional changes
• Hypersensitivity 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 are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Bridgeton, 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 tailored 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 Bridgeton, MO

Recognizing that you may have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial because the impacts of a concussion can be not always obvious and occasionally delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is essential. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that occur. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in evaluating and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system should be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and decision-making abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations strictly. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an extended physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Bridgeton, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Bridgeton, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on proper rest and the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Bridgeton, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

One in five concussions need more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to tackle these varied effects, facilitating a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Bridgeton, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate customized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to steadily restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to better balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to assist in the recovery of these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help 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 associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Bridgeton, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly boost the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, strongly integrated in the Bridgeton, MO community. This local connection builds a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run by physical therapists who are integrated into the local fabric, Axes brings a personalized 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 Bridgeton, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced clinicians. This extensive experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by skilled professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation 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 unique needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel supported, acknowledged, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can occasionally 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 overall wellness is always in view. Our Bridgeton, MO team recognizes the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to tackle all aspects of your health.

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

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