Concussion treatment in Mehlville, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in Mehlville, MO can be an integral part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love most safely and effectively.

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

• Helps in decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier returns and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you love has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment online to begin your concussion treatment in Mehlville, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a 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 brief disruption in normal brain function, affecting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally 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 diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and quality of life.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with forceful or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in all athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions typically occur from incidents such as slipping on ice, 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 violently inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that many 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 vary widely depending on the specific individual and the specifics of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and management, frequently involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• A headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling dazed
• Confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ringing in the ears
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Delayed response to questions
• Fatigue

Long-Term Symptoms

• Continual 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

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 lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Mehlville, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and particular concussion treatments tailored 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 Mehlville, 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 believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s essential to visit a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms feel mild, securing 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 crucial. Avoid physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that occur. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and addressing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, avoid driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations closely. This might include a series of steps for progressively returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only aids in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in Mehlville, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Mehlville, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, evidence-backed treatment plans. Mehlville, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely restoring physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on proper rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Mehlville, MO securely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

One in five concussions require longer than three weeks to resolve, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a focused approach to manage these varied effects, aiding in a more secure and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Mehlville, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate customized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to better balance and lessen 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 involve exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without intensifying concussion symptoms. These exercises aid in restoring stamina, 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 informing you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an active role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Mehlville, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that responds to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly boost the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and effectively.

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

Choosing the right physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Mehlville, MO is critical. Axes Physical Therapy in Mehlville, MO stands out as a top choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, firmly entrenched in the Mehlville, MO community. This local connection builds a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run by physical therapists who are members of the local fabric, Axes brings a personalized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a clinical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With more than 20 years of leadership in the physical therapy industry in Mehlville, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This vast experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is directed by knowledgeable professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take priority. 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 resume the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy is proud to creating an environment where patients feel supported, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others shines through 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 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 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 comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our Mehlville, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

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

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be difficult, but with the right care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in Mehlville, 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 securely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a safe and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Mehlville, MO.