Concussion treatment in St. Genevieve, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are complex 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 St. Genevieve, MO can be an integral part of your treatment plan that gets you back to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

According to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, research shows that physical therapy as part of your concussion treatment:

• Aids 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 love has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment online to initiate your concussion treatment in St. Genevieve, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is essentially a type of traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a forceful jolt that leads to the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in normal brain function, affecting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and even sleep. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions often do not lead to visible structural damage to the brain, which is why 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 ability to function normally.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are often 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 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 violently 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 seriousness of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why correct diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are critical to a healthy recovery from a concussion. If symptoms continue even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and longer-term symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• Headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• A sense of confusion or feeling as if in a haze
• A sense of dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Ear ringing
• Stomach upset or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

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

Not every person will encounter all these symptoms, and their severity can differ. If you think you might have a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or prolonged symptoms, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in St. Genevieve, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can assess your condition and recommend the right course of action, including rest and tailored concussion treatments suited to your needs. You can come to any of our locations for a free injury screening.

What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in St. Genevieve, MO

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

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s imperative to visit a healthcare professional without delay. Even if the symptoms feel mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and often delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can consult a medical professional, rest is key. Avoid physical activities, notably sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require concentration or mental strain, as these may worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor your symptoms, noting any alterations or new symptoms that occur. This information is essential for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that influence the nervous system should be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and cognitive abilities may be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations strictly. This might include a set of instructions for slowly returning to normal activities, specific concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an continued physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only assists in your recovery but also minimizes the risk of exacerbating your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in St. Genevieve, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in St. Genevieve, MO

Physical therapy can be essential in concussion treatment as it manages various post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. St. Genevieve, 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 the safe restoration of physical function and endurance, while also offering guidance on the right rest and the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in St. Genevieve, MO securely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

One in five concussions require longer than three weeks to recover from, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can impair the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to address these varied effects, enabling a more controlled and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in St. Genevieve, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists formulate individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to slowly restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which involves exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists use specific exercises to aid in restoring these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are vital for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to enhance neck strength, flexibility, and minimize pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to effectively increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises assist in restoring physical endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities 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 St. Genevieve, MO is not a universal solution; it’s a dynamic approach that responds to the changing 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 resume their daily activities – and favorite activities – securely and successfully.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a community-based entity, deeply rooted in the St. Genevieve, MO community. This local connection fosters a greater understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being operated by physical therapists who are part of the local fabric, Axes brings a tailored touch to our services, ensuring that your treatment feels more like a community effort than a clinical procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With in excess of two decades of leadership in the physical therapy industry in St. Genevieve, MO, Axes boasts a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This broad 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 directed by experienced professionals who are highly proficient in the latest and most efficient concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that each concussion patient has distinct challenges and recovery trajectories, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized to your unique needs, helping you return to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A satisfactory experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on establishing an environment where patients feel supported, understood, and motivated. Our dedication 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 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 breath of fresh air in a world where these qualities can often be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the emphasis of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our St. Genevieve, MO team understands the sophisticated 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 St. Genevieve, 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. Genevieve, 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 protected and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in St. Genevieve, MO.