Concussion treatment in St. Ann, 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 St. Ann, MO can be an integral part of your treatment plan 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:

• Aids in managing post-concussion symptoms
• Allows for earlier returns and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Is widely recognized as safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you love is dealing with concussion symptoms, contact the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online to initiate your concussion treatment in St. Ann, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury commonly 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 temporary interference in normal brain function, influencing mental functions, balance, emotional stability, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions generally do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “invisible injuries.” Nevertheless, this does not lessen their potential severity, as concussions can have profound short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s overall 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 crashes, and blows to the head during everyday activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with forceful 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 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 rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be enough to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are transient and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the duration and severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why appropriate diagnosis and management, typically involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are essential to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms linger even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Immediate 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 fog
• Dizziness or visual disorientation
• Ringing in the ears
• Feeling nauseous or vomiting
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Slowed response to questions
• Tiredness

Long-Term Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other mood changes
• Increased sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not all individuals will experience each of these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in St. Ann, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate 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 St. Ann, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: 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 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. Avoid physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information can be crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and addressing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that impact the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, avoid driving as your responsiveness and cognitive abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations strictly. This might include a series of steps for gradually returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, check-ups, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, adhering to these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in St. Ann, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in St. Ann, MO

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it manages a range of post-concussion symptoms through individualized, evidence-backed treatment plans. St. Ann, 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 regaining physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on proper rest and a gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ holistic approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in St. Ann, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions need more than three weeks to heal, 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 focused approach to manage these diverse effects, enabling a more controlled and better recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in St. Ann, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop individualized recovery plans based on the specific symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to slowly restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are experienced with vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to better balance and minimize 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 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 comprise exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Gradual exercise programs are crafted to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including activity modification and strategies to deal with symptoms. This education equips 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 St. Ann, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a flexible approach that adapts to the evolving needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By addressing the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly boost the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the St. Ann, MO community. This local connection creates a deeper 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 customized touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a typical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With more than 20 years of expertise in the physical therapy industry in St. Ann, MO, Axes presents a team of very knowledgeable clinicians. This vast experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the details of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is led by experienced professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your recovery and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has individual challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric 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 as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in fostering an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our enthusiasm for helping others manifests 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 sets 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 holistic approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our St. Ann, MO team understands the sophisticated 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 St. Ann, 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 St. Ann, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to develop 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 thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in St. Ann, MO.