Concussion Treatment in St. George, MO | Physical Therapy for Concussions

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

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

If you or someone you love is facing concussion symptoms, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online to get started with your concussion treatment in St. George, MO today.

About Concussions

A concussion is considered a traumatic brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can lead to a temporary interference in healthy brain function, impacting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike life-threatening brain injuries, concussions usually do not cause visible structural damage to the brain, and therefore 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 health and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and blows to the head during daily 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 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 a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, as any action that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth inside the skull — such as whiplash — can be adequate to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are temporary and reversible, which is why most people fully recover from concussions. However, the extent and intensity of symptoms can fluctuate significantly depending on the person and the particulars of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, typically involving rest and a gradual return to normal activities, are essential 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

A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
Brief unconsciousness or feeling dazed
Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
Dizziness or “seeing stars”
Ear ringing
Feeling nauseous or vomiting
Slurred speech
Slowed response to questions
Tiredness

Lingering Symptoms

Ongoing headaches
Focus and memory problems
Grumpiness and other emotional changes
Hypersensitivity 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 are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in St. George, MO, such as those at Axes Physical Therapy, can evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action, including rest and specific concussion treatments customized 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. George, MO

Acknowledging that you could have a concussion is the initial important step in getting the appropriate concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you suspect you have a concussion:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It’s imperative to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial because the effects of a concussion can be subtle and sometimes delayed.
Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is essential. Avoid physical activities, especially sports or exercises that might result in another head injury. Additionally, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these can worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, keeping an eye on any alterations or new symptoms that emerge. This information is essential for healthcare providers in evaluating and managing your concussion.
Avoid 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 given the green light by a medical professional, refrain from driving as your reflexes and judgment may be impaired.
Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve consulted a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations diligently. This might include a set of instructions for progressively returning to normal activities, tailored concussion treatments, subsequent visits, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, following these steps not only helps in your recovery but also lowers the risk of aggravating your condition. Concussions demand careful management, and the direction of medical professionals in St. George, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is crucial.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in St. George, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it addresses various post-concussion symptoms through individualized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation plans. St. George, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and correct your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also providing guidance on appropriate rest and a gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can get back to the activities you love in St. George, MO with safety, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

20% concussions take more than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can disrupt the brain’s usual functioning, leading to a array of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to manage these diverse effects, facilitating a more secure and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in St. George, MO may include:

Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create individualized recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans commonly include exercises and activities crafted to gradually restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
Vestibular Therapy: Many concussion patients encounter dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which includes 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 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 often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are crafted to securely increase physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. These exercises help in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations are able to relieve headaches and neck pain associated with concussions.
Education and Guidance: A crucial part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to manage symptoms. This education empowers you to take an involved role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks might reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in St. George, MO is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a flexible 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 markedly improve the recovery process and help patients get back to their daily activities – and favorite activities – safely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally owned entity, strongly integrated in the St. George, MO community. This local connection fosters a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run 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 standard procedure.

Expertise and Experience

With more than two decades of leadership in the physical therapy industry in St. George, MO, Axes presents a team of extremely skilled clinicians. This vast 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 led by knowledgeable professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective 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-focused 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 just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on fostering an environment where patients feel supported, listened to, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others manifests in every interaction, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as pleasant and positive as possible.

Emphasis on Relationships

As a patient-focused business, Axes puts a high value on the relationships between our staff and patients. Our belief in the power 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 often 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 St. George, MO team acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to tackle all aspects of your health.

Concussion Treatment in St. George, MO | Vestibular Therapy | Physical Therapy for Concussions Near St. George

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in St. George, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be demanding, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in St. George, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to establish an research-supported 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 protected and complete recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in St. George, MO.