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Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options for a Concussion

Concussion

Any traumatic brain injury that can damage brain tissue is a concussion. Trauma to the head may alter the brain’s chemical balance causing physical, mental and emotional problems. Short-term and long-term.
Bike injuryAny trauma to the head is to considered a serious injury. Schedule an examination with your doctor or physical therapist to rule out any concussion or brain tissue damage.
Treatment is individualized. Every physical therapy program designed is unique and specific.
Diagnosis
Any brain abnormality does not usually show up from an MRI or CT Scan. A series of tests assess your strength, coordination, balance, sight, smell and memory.
Neck injuries often occur from a concussion. Upon examination your physical therapist will rule out any collateral damage to your person.
Treatment Plans
Rest and Relaxation.
Limitations and restrictions may be placed on all physical activities. Your physical therapist will determine when it is safe to resume normal activities.
Restoring Strength and Endurance.
During the recovery period, you muscles and stamina may diminish. Your physical therapist will design a personalized therapeutic exercise program and carefully monitor your symptoms though out your recovery.
Reducing Dizziness and Improving Balance.
Complications associated with balance and dizziness stem from nerve damage within the inner ear. Vestibular physical therapy is a specialized treatment plan that treats this condition.
Receiving Headaches.
Programs to treat headaches include stretches, strength and motion exercises, eye exercises, and hands-on techniques such as specialized massages. Electrical stimulation has also proven to be an effective non-invasive treatment for headaches.
Returning to Normal Activity.
Any injury affecting the body’s nervous system requires great care. As strength and endurance improve, your physical therapist will add normal activities back into your daily activities.
Rehabilitation from a concussion can take several weeks to several months. Many factors contribute to the speed of recovery. Age, overall health impact recovery. Assessing and diagnosing treatment is critical.
Causes
  • Trauma to the head or whiplash (car accident, slip on ice, fall down stairs, un-safe surfaces, etc.)
  • Injuries resulting from contact sports (football, basketball, soccer, etc.)
Symptoms
  • Blurred vision, impaired hearing, loss of smell, not able to taste and fatigue.
  • Loss of balance or coordination.
  • Irritability, depression or difficulty concentrating. 
  • Headaches, migraines or seizures. 
  • Dizziness, nausea, vomiting. 
  • Difficulty sleeping / Excessive Sleeping.
  • Sensitivity to light and sound. 
  • Slurred Speech. 
Contact a doctor or physical therapist and schedule an examination immediately. Trauma to the head is serious. Most doctor’s and physical therapist will see you the same day.
To learn more about concussion treatment plans give Moriarty Physical Therapy a call at 845.454.4137. Or visit our website at www.moriartypt.com.

Source:
Physical Therapy Guide to Concussion. (November 25, 2015). The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Move Forward Guide.

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