Concussion treatment in Herculaneum, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are intricate injuries that require expert care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Herculaneum, MO can be an integral part of your healing journey 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:

• Is beneficial at managing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in Herculaneum, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is basically a type of traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a hit to the head or a forceful jolt that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in normal brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and quality of life.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are often associated with forceful or contact sports like football and hockey, but they can occur in every 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 note that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, 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 the majority of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and seriousness of symptoms can vary widely depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
• Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• Dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ringing in the ears
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory problems
• Irritability and other changes in mood
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• 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 prolonged symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Herculaneum, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments customized 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 Herculaneum, MO

Identifying that you could have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you ought to do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms appear mild, getting a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that emerge. This information is crucial for healthcare providers in diagnosing and addressing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and judgment might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for progressively returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only assists in your recovery but also reduces the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Herculaneum, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Herculaneum, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it manages various post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Herculaneum, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely regaining physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on the right rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Herculaneum, MO securely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

20% concussions require more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to address these multiple effects, enabling a more secure and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Herculaneum, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create customized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients suffer from 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 critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education enables 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 Herculaneum, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that responds to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the unique challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly enhance the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and effectively.

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

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Herculaneum, MO is one of the most important aspects of your recovery. Axes Physical Therapy in Herculaneum, MO stands out as a top choice for multiple compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Herculaneum, MO community. This local connection fosters 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 customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With more than 20 years of experience in the physical therapy industry in Herculaneum, MO, Axes presents a team of highly experienced clinicians. This vast 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 guided by knowledgeable professionals who are experts in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take the forefront. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your particular needs, helping you resume the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on creating an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as pleasant 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 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can occasionally 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 Herculaneum, MO team recognizes the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to tackle all aspects of your health.

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

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