Concussion treatment in Maryland Heights, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are intricate 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 Maryland Heights, 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.

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

• Helps in managing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know is dealing with concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location most convenient for you or schedule an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Maryland Heights, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury commonly caused by a blow to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary interference in normal brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not diminish 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 a variety of situations, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly 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 falling on icy surfaces, minor car collisions, or even a sudden jolt during a roller coaster ride. It’s important to mention 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 most of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a fog
• Feeling dizzy or visual disorientation
• Ringing in the ears
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory problems
• Grumpiness and other mood changes
• Hypersensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not every person will suffer from all these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Maryland Heights, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments tailored 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 Maryland Heights, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the consequences of a concussion can be hard to notice and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and addressing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system must be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only helps in your recovery but also lowers the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Maryland Heights, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Maryland Heights, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Maryland Heights, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on the right rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Maryland Heights, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

One in five concussions need longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is vital 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 manage these diverse effects, enabling a more secure and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Maryland Heights, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop individualized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities crafted to gradually 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 minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to securely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. 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 related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education equips you to take an involved role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Maryland Heights, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that responds 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 successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, deeply rooted in the Maryland Heights, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed by physical therapists who are part of 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 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Maryland Heights, MO, Axes boasts a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This extensive 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 directed by skilled professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has unique challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your unique 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 just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on establishing an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others is evident in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a patient-focused business, Axes sets 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 concentration of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our all-encompassing approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our Maryland Heights, MO team understands 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 Maryland Heights, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Maryland Heights, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create an scientifically validated 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 protected and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Maryland Heights, MO.