Concussion treatment in South Grand, St. Louis, 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 got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in South Grand, St. Louis, MO can be an essential 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:

• Helps in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is considered safe for concussion treatment

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment online to initiate your concussion treatment in South Grand, St. Louis, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by an impact to the head or a forceful jolt that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can cause a brief disruption in healthy brain function, affecting mental functions, physical coordination, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions generally do not result in visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize 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 happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense or contact sports like football and hockey, 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 mention that you don’t need a direct blow to the head to get a concussion, as any action that causes the brain to move aggressively inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that the majority of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the specific individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and management, often involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are crucial to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Pain in the head or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• Feeling dizzy or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory issues
• Grumpiness and other mood swings
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble sleeping
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will experience each of these symptoms, and their severity can vary. If you suspect a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in South Grand, St. Louis, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the suitable 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 South Grand, St. Louis, MO

Acknowledging that you might have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s imperative to see a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms seem mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is vital because the consequences of a concussion can be not always obvious and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is crucial. Refrain from physical activities, especially sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Moreover, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, noting any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and treating your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless directly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until cleared by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and cognitive abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations diligently. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also lowers the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in South Grand, St. Louis, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in South Grand, St. Louis, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. South Grand, St. Louis, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in South Grand, St. Louis, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

20% concussions take more than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is vital in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a specific approach to manage these varied effects, aiding in a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in South Grand, St. Louis, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate tailored recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities intended to gradually restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and minimize 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 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: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises aid in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in South Grand, St. Louis, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that evolves with the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly enhance the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and effectively.

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

Choosing the best physical therapy provider for your concussion treatment in South Grand, St. Louis, MO is vital. Axes Physical Therapy in South Grand, St. Louis, MO stands out as a premier choice for many compelling reasons:

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the South Grand, St. Louis, 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 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 typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With over 20 years of experience in the physical therapy industry in South Grand, St. Louis, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This extensive 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 skilled professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing 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 personalized to your unique needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in creating an environment where patients feel cared for, listened to, 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 service-oriented business, Axes puts 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 focus 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 South Grand, St. Louis, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, specifically in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and aims to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in South Grand, 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 South Grand, St. Louis, 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 securely 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 South Grand, St. Louis, MO.