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

• Is beneficial at decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know is experiencing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in Jefferson Barracks, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a hit to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not lead to 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 serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during daily activities. In sports, concussions are often associated with high-impact 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 falling on icy surfaces, 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 adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and seriousness of symptoms can vary widely depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, often 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 both immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ringing in the ears
• Nausea or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Fatigue

Long-Term Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other emotional changes
• 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 suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Jefferson Barracks, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and specific 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms seem mild, securing a proper diagnosis is vital because the impacts of a concussion can be subtle and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Steer clear of physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that arise. This information becomes valuable for healthcare providers in evaluating and treating your concussion.
• Stay Away From 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 cleared by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and judgment could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a set of instructions for progressively returning to normal activities, tailored 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 worsening your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in Jefferson Barracks, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Jefferson Barracks, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Jefferson Barracks, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also giving guidance on appropriate rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Jefferson Barracks, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s normal functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to address these diverse effects, facilitating a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Jefferson Barracks, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities intended to gradually restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to enhance balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use 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 frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help in restoring stamina, 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 vital 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 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that responds to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing 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 – securely and successfully.

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

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Jefferson Barracks, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Jefferson Barracks, MO stands out as a leading choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, firmly entrenched in the Jefferson Barracks, MO community. This local connection builds a deeper understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are part of the local fabric, Axes brings a customized 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This extensive experience is in treating 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 efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

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

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A positive experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in establishing an environment where patients feel supported, listened to, and motivated. Our passion for helping others is evident 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 puts 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can sometimes be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the concentration of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Jefferson Barracks, MO team recognizes the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to tackle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Jefferson Barracks, 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 Jefferson Barracks, 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO.