Concussion treatment in South St. Louis, MO. Concussions are far beyond a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that can have long-term effects if not treated properly. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in South St. Louis, MO can be an essential part of your treatment plan 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:

• Aids in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Has been deemed safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, contact the Axes location most convenient for you or make an appointment through our website to initiate your concussion treatment in South St. Louis, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, impacting mental functions, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore they are sometimes described as “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 overall health and day-to-day life.

Concussions can occur in a variety of situations, making them a risk for almost anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with intense 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 ice-related falls, 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 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 transient and reversible, which is why numerous people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and seriousness of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the individual and the particulars of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and a 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 not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Brief unconsciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a cloud
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Tinnitus
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Focus and memory issues
• Irritability and other changes in mood
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep problems
• 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 prolonged symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in South St. Louis, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can diagnose your condition and recommend the suitable course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments suited 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 St. Louis, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, securing a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and sometimes delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is crucial. Refrain from physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, observing any alterations or new symptoms that occur. This information becomes essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and addressing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system must be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until given the green light by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for gradually returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, check-ups, or an extended 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 direction of medical professionals in South St. Louis, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

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

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles various post-concussion symptoms through customized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. South St. Louis, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to alleviate balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with safely regaining physical function and endurance, while also giving guidance on the right rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can return to the activities you love in South St. Louis, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

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

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create individualized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities intended to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients experience dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to enhance balance and minimize dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use specific exercises to assist in the recovery of 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 comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are formulated to safely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises assist in restoring stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A key part of physical therapy is teaching you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to manage symptoms. This education equips you to take an involved 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 St. Louis, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can significantly enhance 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 South St. Louis, MO

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, strongly integrated in the South St. Louis, MO community. This local connection builds a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being managed 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 experience in the physical therapy industry in South St. Louis, MO, Axes features a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This extensive experience is in managing a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by skilled professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take the forefront. Understanding that each concussion patient has unique challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a patient-centered approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your particular needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on long-term and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A positive experience during your recovery is equally important as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in fostering an environment where patients feel encouraged, understood, and motivated. Our passion for helping others shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a service-oriented 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 refreshing approach in a world where these qualities can often 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 overall wellness is always in view. Our South St. Louis, MO team acknowledges the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, especially in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and strives to address all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in South St. Louis, 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 South St. Louis, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create 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 secure and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in South St. Louis, MO.