Concussion treatment in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO. Concussions are more than just a knock on the head; they are serious injuries that require expert care and attention. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who’s got in a car accident, Axes Physical Therapy in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO can be an effective part of your healing journey that returns you to the activities you love in the safest manner possible and successfully.

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

• Is beneficial at managing post-concussion symptoms
• Enables earlier returns and/or shorter days to recovery
• Is considered safe for treating post-concussion symptoms

If you or someone you know has gotten a concussion, reach out to the Axes location nearest you or schedule an appointment through our website to begin your concussion treatment in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO today.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury commonly caused by an impact to the head or a rapid, aggressive shaking that causes the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, affecting mental functions, balance, 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 called “invisible injuries.” Still, this does not minimize their potential severity, as concussions can have significant short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and day-to-day life.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for nearly everyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car crashes, and any other type of blow to the head. In sports, concussions are commonly associated with high-impact 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 note that a concussion can happen even without a direct blow to the head, 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 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 vary widely depending on the person and the specifics of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and a steady return to normal activities, are crucial to a complete recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause not only immediate and extended symptoms:

Short-Term Symptoms

• A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• A sense of dizziness or experiencing visual disturbances
• Ear ringing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Long-Term Symptoms

• Ongoing headaches
• Concentration and memory complaints
• Grumpiness and other mood changes
• 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 differ. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or lingering symptoms, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. A healthcare professional in The Gate District, St. Louis, 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 visit any of our locations for a free injury screening.

What to Do if You Think You Have a Concussion in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO

Identifying that you may have a concussion is the first vital step in getting the right concussion treatment. Here’s what you need to do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s imperative to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear mild, getting a proper diagnosis is vital because the effects of a concussion can be hard to notice and occasionally delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can visit a medical professional, rest is key. Avoid physical activities, especially sports or exercises that could result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require mental effort or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Record your symptoms, noting any changes or new symptoms that emerge. This information is valuable for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Stay Away From Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system ought to be avoided unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, avoid driving as your reaction times and decision-making abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve seen a healthcare provider, follow their recommendations closely. This might include a gradual process for slowly returning to normal activities, particular concussion treatments, follow-up appointments, or an ongoing physical therapy plan.

Remember, taking these steps not only assists in your recovery but also lowers the risk of worsening your condition. Concussions require careful management, and the advice of medical professionals in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is necessary.

Physical Therapy for Concussion Treatment in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO

Physical therapy can be crucial in concussion treatment as it tackles a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed rehabilitation plans. The Gate District, St. Louis, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to ease balance and visual disturbances and improve your gait. Additionally, physical therapy aids in safely restoring physical function and stamina, while also offering guidance on proper rest and gradual return to normal activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO safely, with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions require longer than three weeks to heal, and physical therapy is essential in those cases. Concussions can affect the brain’s regular functioning, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Physical therapy offers a targeted approach to tackle these multiple effects, facilitating a safer and more effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists develop individualized recovery plans based on the particular symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans often include exercises and activities designed to steadily restore normal function without exacerbating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: Numerous concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are skilled at vestibular rehabilitation, which comprises exercises to improve balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can impact visual and cognitive functions. Therapists employ specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as eye-tracking and coordination activities, which are critical for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries often accompany concussions. Physical therapists can offer treatments for the cervical spine, which comprise exercises to increase neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are designed to safely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations have the potential to relieve headaches and neck pain linked to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is educating you about concussion management, including changes in activity and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education enables 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 The Gate District, St. Louis, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a patient-centered approach that responds to the changing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By targeting the specific challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can greatly boost the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – securely and successfully.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, strongly integrated in the The Gate District, St. Louis, MO community. This local connection builds a stronger understanding and commitment to the healthcare needs of the residents. Being run by physical therapists who are members 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 more than two decades of leadership in the physical therapy industry in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO, Axes boasts a team of highly experienced clinicians. This extensive 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 directed by skilled professionals who are well-versed in the latest and most effective concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your healing and needs take priority. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a patient-focused approach. This means your treatment plan is personalized 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 satisfactory experience during your recovery is as vital as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy takes pride in establishing 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 pleasant 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 significance 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 holistic approach to physical therapy means that your complete wellness is always in view. Our The Gate District, St. Louis, MO team understands 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 The Gate District, 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 The Gate District, 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 protected and thorough recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in The Gate District, St. Louis, MO.