Physical Therapy for Concussion Rehabilitation
Concussion is an injury to the brain. It is caused by either a direct blow to the head, or a hit to the body that causes the head and neck to jolt back and forth quickly. This causes the brain to twist or bounce around in the skull. Less than 10 percent of concussions involve a loss of consciousness.
The majority people dealing with concussion have symptoms that resolve within seven to 10 days. However, 20-30 percent of all people with concussion will experience persistent concussion symptoms which will benefit from concussion rehabilitation.
How We Help
Concussion Diagnosis & Treatment
Concussion injury does not appear on any routine brain scan such as CT or MRI, and there is no single diagnostic test for concussions.
A diagnosis of concussion is made based on a group of symptoms that can become immediately present or may arise weeks to months after injury. Your physical therapist will ask a lot of questions and perform numerous tests to identify problems stemming from concussion.
Treatment of concussions is a collaborative effort between primary care physicians, neuropsychologists, physical therapists, and other health professionals all committed to helping decrease symptoms and get you back to life and all the things you love.
Your physical therapist will evaluate you, determine which course of care is best for you and develop an individualized plan. Based on evaluation findings, your physical therapist will create a plan that includes customized exercises and recommendations for participating in or modifying school, work and home activities to help expedite your recovery.
Symptoms that concussion physical therapy can address:
- Neck pain and Headaches
- Dizziness/Nausea
- Vestibular/Balance Issues
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Visual issues
- Exertion tolerance
- Return to sport/school/work
- Changes in sleep
- Poor concentration, confusion, disorientation and memory deficits
- Mood changes
What to expect during concussion therapy.
Following a detailed evaluation, our physical therapists work with patients to develop an individualized treatment plan. Because no two concussions are the same, a physical therapist will examine your neurological, orthopedic, and cardiovascular systems in order to best prescribe a routine to address your particular symptoms and your needs in all of your daily environments. Returning to work, school, or a sport after concussion is a gradual process. Your physical therapist will play an active role in your recovery and return to activity by monitoring your symptoms and heart rate as you take on more activity.
