The Concussion Care Clinic At Northeast Rehab
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that can change the way your brain normally works. Concussions can also occur from a fall or blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION?
Most people with a concussion recover quickly and fully. But for some people, symptoms can last for days, weeks, or longer. In general, recovery may be slower among older adults, young children, and teens. Those who have had a concussion in the past are also at risk of having another one and may find that it takes longer to recover if they experience another concussion.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Impaired Memory
- Fuzzy or Blurry Vision
- Nausea or Vomiting
- Excessive Sleeping
- Sensitivity to Noise or Light
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Nervousness or Anxiety
Some of these symptoms may appear right away, while others may not be noticed for days or months after the injury. In some cases, symptoms may not appear until everyday life resumes and more demands are placed upon them. Sometimes, people do not recognize or admit that they are having problems. Others may not understand why they are having problems, making them nervous and upset.
The signs and symptoms of a concussion can be difficult to notice or recognize. Initially, problems may be missed by the person with the concussion, family members, or even doctors. People may appear to be fine even though they are acting or feeling differently.
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF CONCUSSIONS:
At Northeast Rehab, our physicians can confirm a concussion diagnosis and improve patient outcomes with the following:
- Neurocognitive Testing
- Environmental Modifications
- Physical and Vestibular Therapy
- Medications
Our goal is to safely return patients to normal life activities and be sure they have a good understanding of what they are experiencing. For some people, recovery from a concussion is rapid, occurring within days. For others, it may take weeks, or even longer. One of the best ways to help in your recovery is to learn more about what to expect in the days following a concussion so that you can better manage your symptoms.
Our physicians can also discuss risks and precautions regarding hazards of the workplace, organized sporting activities, and other recreational activities in order to minimize the chance of reoccurrence and permanent injury.
CONCUSSION THERAPY PROGRAM:
At Northeast Rehab, we have a team approach to concussion therapy. Our care team includes Dr. Paul Horchos (a CIC or Credentialed ImPACT Consultant), a Physical Therapist, a Physical Therapy Assistant, Exercise Physiologists, and a dietitian we can call on for nutritional needs. This team approach sets us apart from other facilities. We meet regularly and just as concussion treatment involves a multidimensional approach, so does treating the whole person. The goal of concussion therapy is to provoke some of the symptoms while avoiding overstimulating the brain in the hopes these activities will become easier and easier, in essence, retraining the brain.
Treatment protocols consists of:
- Gaze stabilization exercises
- Balance and rotational activities
- Cervical treatment
- HRV monitoring
- Return to Play Program
Don’t be afraid to seek care! Concussions are no longer a mysterious diagnosis. Through education and experience, we are able to better understand concussions to help provide proper care and aid in the recovery process.
Dr. Horchos is certified in Brain Injury Medicine and is a certified evaluator of Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) and treats both children and adults with mild traumatic brain injuries.
Maurya is credentialed in concussion management through ImPact® Trained Physical Therapist program (ITPT).
