Concussion treatment in Central West End, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that require professional care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Central West End, MO can be an integral part of your recovery process that returns you to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and effectively.

Based on research from the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Aids in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Central West End, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is considered a 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 lead to a temporary interference in healthy brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes described as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are often associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in any athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result from incidents such as ice-related falls, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to note 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 most of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a haze
• Dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Ear ringing
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Long-Term Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Focus and memory problems
• Grumpiness and other mood swings
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not every person will experience 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 essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Central West End, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and particular concussion treatments customized 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 Central West End, MO

Identifying that you may have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the consequences of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is key. Steer clear of physical activities, notably sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system should be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and judgment could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only aids in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Central West End, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Central West End, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Central West End, 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 safely regaining physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Central West End, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

20% concussions need more than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to manage these diverse effects, enabling a more controlled and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Central West End, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize 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 commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can deliver treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without worsening concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring 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 vital part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including changes in activity 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 might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Central West End, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that responds to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly improve the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and successfully.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Central West End, MO

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Central West End, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Central West End, MO stands out as a leading choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, strongly integrated in the Central West End, MO community. This local connection builds a stronger 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 personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a standard procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With in excess of two decades of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Central West End, MO, Axes boasts a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by experienced 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 each concussion patient has distinct challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric 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 quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on creating an environment where patients feel supported, understood, and motivated. Our dedication 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 service-oriented business, Axes places a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the significance 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 often be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the focus of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our holistic approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Central West End, 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 Central West End, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Central West End, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop an research-supported treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love securely 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 Central West End, MO.