Concussion treatment in The Hill, St. Louis, MO. Concussions are not merely 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 had a fall, Axes Physical Therapy in The Hill, St. Louis, MO can be an integral part of your healing journey 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:

• Helps in easing post-concussion symptoms
• Facilitates earlier comebacks and/or shorter periods of recovery
• Has been deemed 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 get started with your concussion treatment in The Hill, St. Louis, MO today.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is fundamentally a type of traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow to the head or a sudden, violent shaking that results in the brain moving within the skull. This movement can result in a temporary disruption in normal brain function, affecting cognitive processes, physical coordination, mood, and sleep patterns. Unlike more severe brain injuries, concussions often do not result in 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 serious short-term and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being and ability to complete daily tasks.

Concussions happen for a variety of reasons, making them a risk for virtually anyone. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, auto accidents, and blows to the head during routine activities. In sports, concussions are frequently associated with intense or contact sports like football and soccer, 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 mention 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 sufficient to cause a concussion.

It’s important to note that most of these changes are short-term and reversible, which is why a large number of people fully recover from concussions. However, the length and severity of symptoms can differ greatly depending on the individual and the details of the injury. That’s why proper diagnosis and treatment, frequently involving rest and gradual return to normal activities, are essential to a successful recovery from a concussion. If symptoms persist even after rest.

Concussion Symptoms

Concussions can cause both immediate and prolonged symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms

• A headache or a sense of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness or feeling confused
• Disorientation or feeling as if in a haze
• Dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Tinnitus
• Nausea or vomiting
• Impaired speech
• Slowed response to questions
• Exhaustion

Lingering Symptoms

• Continual headaches
• Concentration and memory issues
• Grumpiness and other emotional changes
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Disorders of taste and smell
• Disorders of balance and coordination

Not everyone will suffer from all these symptoms, and their severity can fluctuate. If you are concerned about a concussion, whether due to the presence of immediate or persistent symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional in The Hill, 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 tailored 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO

Identifying that you could have a concussion is the first crucial step in getting the proper concussion treatment. Here’s what you should do if you think you have a concussion:

• Seek Medical Attention Right Away: It’s essential to see a healthcare professional immediately. Even if the symptoms seem mild, securing a proper diagnosis is crucial because the impacts of a concussion can be not always obvious and occasionally delayed.
• Rest and Limit Activities: Until you can see a medical professional, rest is essential. Steer clear of physical activities, particularly sports or exercises that may result in another head injury. Also, limit activities that require focus or mental strain, as these might worsen symptoms.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, keeping an eye on any differences or new symptoms that emerge. This information becomes crucial for healthcare providers in assessing and managing your concussion.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol and medications that can affect the nervous system ought to be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
• Don’t Drive: Until approved by a medical professional, steer clear of driving as your responsiveness and decision-making abilities could be impaired.
• Follow Professional Guidance: Once you’ve visited a healthcare provider, stick to their recommendations diligently. This might include a gradual process for slowly 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 exacerbating your condition. Concussions need careful management, and the guidance of medical professionals in The Hill, St. Louis, MO, like those at Axes Physical Therapy, is essential.

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

Physical therapy can be integral in concussion treatment as it addresses a range of post-concussion symptoms through customized, evidence-backed treatment plans. The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapists employ techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and vision therapy to reduce balance and visual disturbances and adjust your gait. Additionally, physical therapy helps with the safe restoration of physical function and stamina, while also giving guidance on proper rest and the gradual return to daily activities. Axes’ multi-faceted approach ensures you can resume the activities you love in The Hill, St. Louis, MO safely, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

A fifth of concussions require more than three weeks to recover from, 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 specific approach to tackle these varied effects, enabling a more secure and effective recovery. Your concussion treatment plan in The Hill, St. Louis, MO may include:

• Personalized Recovery Plans: Physical therapists create tailored recovery plans based on the unique symptoms and needs of each patient. These plans frequently include exercises and activities crafted to steadily restore normal function without aggravating symptoms.
• Vestibular Therapy: A significant number of concussion patients suffer from dizziness and balance issues. Physical therapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation, which includes exercises to better balance and lessen dizziness-related problems.
• Visual and Cognitive Exercises: Concussions can affect visual and cognitive functions. Therapists utilize specific exercises to help restore these functions, such as visual tracking and coordination activities, which are essential for tasks like reading and driving.
• Cervical Spine Treatment: Neck injuries commonly accompany concussions. Physical therapists can provide treatments for the cervical spine, which involve exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Exercise Therapy: Progressive exercise programs are formulated to securely increase physical activity without making your symptoms worse. These exercises help in restoring endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques including soft tissue mobilization and gentle joint mobilizations can relieve headaches and neck pain related to concussions.
• Education and Guidance: A vital part of physical therapy is informing you about concussion management, including modifying activities and strategies to cope with symptoms. This education empowers you to take an engaged role in your recovery.

Choosing physical therapy for concussion treatment within the first two weeks may reduce chances of persisting symptoms. Physical therapy in The Hill, St. Louis, MO is not a standardized solution; it’s a dynamic approach that adapts to the ongoing needs of each individual recovering from a concussion. By tackling the particular challenges and symptoms each patient faces, physical therapy can markedly improve the recovery process and help patients resume their daily activities – and the activities they love most – safely and effectively.

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

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

Locally Owned and Operated

Axes is a locally operated entity, deeply rooted in the The Hill, St. Louis, MO community. This local connection fosters a deeper 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 experience in the physical therapy industry in The Hill, St. Louis, MO, Axes boasts a team of highly experienced clinicians. This vast experience is in handling a wide range of conditions, including understanding the complexities of concussion management. Our team’s expertise ensures that your treatment is guided by skilled professionals who are experts in the latest and most advanced concussion treatment methodologies.

Patient-Centered Approach

At Axes, your rehabilitation and needs take the forefront. Understanding that every individual’s recovery is unique, we focus on a individual-centric approach. This means your treatment plan is tailored to your particular needs, helping you get back to the activities you love with a focus on quality and sustainable recovery.

Commitment to Positive Outcomes

A rewarding experience during your recovery is just as crucial as the clinical outcomes. Axes Physical Therapy prides ourselves on creating an environment where patients feel cared for, acknowledged, and motivated. Our dedication for helping others is evident 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 puts 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 occasionally be overlooked in healthcare.

Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

While the concentration of your treatment at Axes will be on concussion recovery, our comprehensive approach to physical therapy means that your total wellness is always in view. Our The Hill, St. Louis, MO team understands the intricate interplay between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing, particularly in conditions like post-concussion syndrome, and works to tackle all aspects of your health.

Call Axes Physical Therapy for Your Concussion Treatment in The Hill, St. Louis, MO

Navigating the path to recovery after a concussion can be challenging, but with the correct care and support, it is entirely achievable. When you trust in Axes for your concussion treatment in The Hill, St. Louis, MO, we form a team with you and your doctor to create 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 secure and comprehensive recovery. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your concussion treatment in The Hill, St. Louis, MO.