Concussion treatment in Midtown St. Louis, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are complex injuries that can have long-term effects if not handled properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Midtown St. Louis, MO can be an effective part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love most safely and successfully.

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

• Is beneficial at decreasing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Has been deemed safe for concussion treatment

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

About Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary interference in healthy brain function, influencing cognitive processes, balance, mood, and sleep patterns. 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 lessen 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 a variety of situations, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, 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 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 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 sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and intensity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the individual and the details of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are critical to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• A headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• Dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Tinnitus
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Concentration and memory issues
• 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 think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in Midtown St. Louis, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments suited to your needs. You can come to any of our locations for a free injury screening.

What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in Midtown St. Louis, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and occasionally delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, observing any changes or new symptoms that occur. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in evaluating and treating your concussion.
• Stay Away From 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 reflexes and judgment might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for progressively returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only helps in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Midtown St. Louis, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Midtown St. Louis, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. Midtown St. Louis, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy contributes to safely regaining physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on the right rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in Midtown St. Louis, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

One in five concussions take more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to manage these varied effects, enabling a more controlled and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Midtown St. Louis, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create customized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities intended to gradually restore normal function without worsening symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to better balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as 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 activity modification 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 can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Midtown St. Louis, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that adapts 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 return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and successfully.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Midtown St. Louis, MO

Choosing the appropriate physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Midtown St. Louis, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in Midtown St. Louis, MO stands out as a leading choice for several compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Midtown St. Louis, MO community. This local connection fosters a deeper 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 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 expertise in the physical therapy industry in Midtown St. Louis, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by experienced professionals who are experts in the latest and most advanced 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 patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in fostering an environment where patients feel encouraged, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others shines through 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 places 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can occasionally 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 overall wellness is always in view. Our Midtown St. Louis, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to handle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Midtown St. Louis, 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 Midtown St. Louis, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an evidence-backed 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 safe and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Midtown St. Louis, MO.