Concussion treatment in Saint Paul, MO. Concussions are more than just 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 suffered a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Saint Paul, MO can be an effective part of your healing journey that gets you back 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 managing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is experiencing concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or make an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in Saint Paul, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a temporary interference in healthy brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes called “invisible injuries.” However, this does not diminish their potential severity, as concussions can have serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and day-to-day life.

Concussions can occur in numerous circumstances, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, and blows to the head during daily activities. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, but they can occur in all athletic activity, including non-contact sports. Outside of sports, concussions can result 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 adequate 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 length and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the details of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and treatment, often involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a sensation of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• Dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Focus and memory problems
• Irritability and other mood swings
• Sensitivity 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 crucial to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Saint Paul, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the appropriate 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 Saint Paul, 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 believe you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, securing a proper diagnosis is important because the impacts of a concussion can be subtle and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, notably sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, keeping an eye on any changes or new symptoms that arise. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system ought to be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities might be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a set of instructions for slowly returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.

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

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Saint Paul, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. Saint Paul, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on appropriate rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ comprehensive approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in Saint Paul, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

One in five concussions take more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is crucial in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to manage these diverse effects, enabling a more controlled and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Saint Paul, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create tailored recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities intended to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and reduce dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can influence visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which include exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to securely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to deal 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 might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Saint Paul, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible approach that evolves with the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly 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 Saint Paul, MO

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in Saint Paul, MO is essential. Axes Physical Therapy in Saint Paul, MO stands out as a top choice for multiple compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, deeply rooted in the Saint Paul, MO community. This local connection fosters a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run 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 typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in Saint Paul, MO, Axes features a team of highly experienced clinicians. This broad experience is in treating 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 highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take the forefront. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is customized to your particular needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on sustainable and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory 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, acknowledged, and motivated. Our enthusiasm 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 sets a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the significance 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 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 Saint Paul, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to tackle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Saint Paul, 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 Saint Paul, 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 securely and effectively. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy for a consultation and take the first step towards a secure and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Saint Paul, MO.