Concussion treatment in Soulard, 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 experienced a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in Soulard, MO can be an effective part of your recovery process that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

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

• Helps in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location most convenient for you or request an appointment through our website to get started with your concussion treatment in Soulard, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a forceful jolt that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in healthy brain function, affecting cognitive processes, physical coordination, emotional stability, and even sleep. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” However, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s health and ability to function normally.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently 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 mention that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, 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 the majority of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why many people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and seriousness of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Tinnitus
• Nausea or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory issues
• Grumpiness and other mood swings
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not everyone will experience each of these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in Soulard, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments suited 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 Soulard, MO

Identifying that you could have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you suspect 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 feel mild, securing a proper diagnosis is crucial because the impacts of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is essential. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, observing any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Avoid 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 cleared by a medical professional, avoid driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only aids in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in Soulard, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in Soulard, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through personalized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. Soulard, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely regaining physical function and endurance, while also providing guidance on proper rest and the gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in Soulard, MO securely, with a treatment plan specifically designed to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions take longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is crucial 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, aiding in a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in Soulard, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop tailored recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to gradually restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to better balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ 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 frequently accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to 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 involved role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks can reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in Soulard, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that evolves with the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost the recovery process and help patients return to their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the Soulard, MO community. This local connection creates a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed 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 standard procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With in excess of two decades of experience in the physical therapy industry in Soulard, MO, Axes features a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This broad 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 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 the forefront. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, understood, 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 service-oriented business, Axes puts 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 welcomed change in a world where these qualities can sometimes be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the emphasis of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our holistic approach to physical therapy means that your overall wellness is always in view. Our Soulard, MO team recognizes the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in Soulard, 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 Soulard, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an scientifically validated 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 secure and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in Soulard, MO.