Concussion treatment in Creve Coeur, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Creve Coeur, MO can be an integral part of your recovery process that returns you 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 easing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Creve Coeur, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by an impact to the head or a forceful jolt that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in normal brain function, affecting cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s 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, car accidents, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in all athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result from incidents such as slipping on ice, 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 enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific 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 essential to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a haze
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other mood swings
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not everyone will suffer from each of these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Creve Coeur, 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 Creve Coeur, MO

Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you suspect you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms seem mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is important because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes 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 mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that occur. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reaction times and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for gradually returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an extended physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only aids in your recovery but also lowers the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Creve Coeur, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Creve Coeur, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Creve Coeur, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Creve Coeur, MO securely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions require more than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to manage these diverse effects, facilitating a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Creve Coeur, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create customized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises 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 aid in restoring these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to effectively increase physical activity without intensifying concussion symptoms. These exercises aid 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 linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Creve Coeur, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly improve the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Creve Coeur, MO community. This local connection creates a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated 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 in excess of two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Creve Coeur, MO, Axes presents a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This broad experience is in handling 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 highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

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

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to creating an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, 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 puts 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 often be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the emphasis 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 Creve Coeur, MO team acknowledges the sophisticated interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Creve Coeur, 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 Creve Coeur, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create 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 protected and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Creve Coeur, MO.