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Concussion Management

Table of Contents

Graphical visualization of brain trauma

Concussions are a big deal and need to be taken seriously and managed properly to ensure a safe recovery. One of the worst complications of concussions is swelling in the brain which can lead to increased intracranial pressure and big neurological problems. At Physical Therapy Associates we specialize in concussion management, we provide individualized care to help you recover and get back to your normal activities. We want to protect your long term brain health by addressing symptoms, monitoring progress and guiding you through a safe recovery.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth inside the skull. This rapid movement can damage brain cells and disrupt normal brain function. Also known as mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI), concussions are not life threatening but can have a big impact on daily life. Proper treatment is key to prevent further brain damage and a safe recovery.

Causes and Risk Factors

Concussions can occur from:

  • Falls: The number one cause of concussions, especially in older adults and young children.
  • Car Accidents: Sudden impacts or jolts to the head or body during car accidents.
  • Contact Sports: Sports like football, hockey and soccer are higher risk due to the collisions.
  • Physical Altercations: Blows to the head or body during fights or assaults.
  • Head Injuries: Any head injury whether from a fall or direct blow.

Some people are more at risk for concussions:

  • Age: Children and older adults are more susceptible due to their developing or declining brain function.
  • Previous Concussions: A history of concussions increases your chances of getting another one.
  • Contact Sports: Participating in sports with physical contact increases the risk.
  • Physical Activity: Activities that involve collisions or falls can cause concussions.

Concussion Symptoms

Symptoms can vary in severity and duration. Some common symptoms are:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness or loss of balance
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue or feeling tired
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Irritability or mood changes
  • Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
  • Memory problems or difficulty remembering things
  • Confusion or disorientation

Symptoms may not appear immediately after the injury and can develop over time. In some cases symptoms may not show up until days or even weeks later.

Diagnosis and Testing

Diagnosis is a combination of physical exam, medical history and cognitive testing.

Neurological Exam

A neurological exam checks brain function and looks for any abnormalities. This may include:

  • Checking for symptoms such as confusion, memory loss, and balance and coordination problems
  • Cognitive function testing – attention, memory, processing speed
  • Motor function testing – strength, reflexes, coordination
  • Looking for signs of brain damage – bleeding or swelling

Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans may be used to rule out other conditions or complications but are not used to diagnose concussions.

Neuropsychological tests may be used to assess cognitive function and detect abnormalities. These tests can include:

  • Memory tests
  • Attention tests
  • Processing speed tests
  • Executive function tests

Observation and monitoring is also important in diagnosing concussions. Healthcare providers will observe the person’s behavior, cognitive function and physical symptoms over time to determine the severity of the concussion and develop a treatment plan.

What are the 5 R’s of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Management?

  1. Recognize: Identify the concussion signs and symptoms – headache, dizziness, confusion.
  2. Remove: Stop physical or mental activity to prevent further injury.
  3. Re-evaluate: Have a healthcare professional do a thorough assessment to determine the severity of the injury.
  4. Rest: Let the brain heal through physical and cognitive rest.
  5. Rehabilitate: Create a personalized rehabilitation plan to address remaining symptoms and get back to daily life and activities.

What are the Concussion Management Steps?

Initial Evaluation

After a head injury, get evaluated by a trained professional. This includes cognitive tests, balance assessments and symptom monitoring to determine the severity of the concussion. Imaging tests are also used to diagnose a suspected concussion especially to assess brain injury and complications.

Symptom Monitoring and Recovery

  • Track symptoms – headaches, dizziness, memory issues.
  • Gradually reintroduce physical and cognitive activities based on symptom improvement.
  • Ongoing Support: Work with therapists to address balance, concentration or vision issues.

At Physical Therapy Associates we create a personalized plan for every patient based on their individual needs and goals.

What is the Protocol?

The protocol is:

  1. Immediate Action: Stop activity or sport and rest.
  2. Professional Evaluation: Get assessed by a healthcare provider who is concussion trained.
  3. Rest and Gradual Return:
  4. Follow a plan that starts with rest and progresses to light activity and then full activity. Light physical activity like walking can get you back to normal routines even if symptoms are mild and don’t go back to high risk activities.
  5. Monitor Progress: Check in with a provider regularly to make sure you’re on track.

This step by step approach reduces the risk of complications and gets you back to safe.

If you get hit in the head, do this:

  1. Stop and Rest: Stop all activity to prevent further injury.
  2. Ice: Use a cold pack if there’s a bump or bruise.
  3. Monitor Symptoms: Watch for headaches, nausea, dizziness or confusion.
  4. Get Medical Attention: If symptoms persist or worsen, get to a healthcare provider ASAP.

Early intervention is key to preventing complications.

What to do for a Concussion?

After you’ve been diagnosed with a concussion, rest and recovery should be the focus:

  • Short Term:
  • Physical and cognitive rest (e.g. reduce screen time, avoid strenuous activities). Avoid activities that cause physical exertion during the early stages of recovery to prevent symptoms from worsening.
  • Stay hydrated and eat well.
  • Long Term:
  • Work with a physical therapist to address remaining symptoms – balance issues, neck pain, headaches.
  • Gradually return to work, school or sport based on professional guidance.

What are the Red Flags of a Concussion?

While most concussions resolve with rest some symptoms require immediate medical attention:

  • Severe headache that doesn’t go away
  • Persistent vomiting or nausea
  • Slurred speech, confusion or difficulty waking up

If you or someone else has these symptoms get emergency care immediately. If any activity makes symptoms worse, get medical attention to prevent further complications.

How Long After Hitting Your Head Do Concussion Symptoms Start?

Concussion symptoms can start immediately or hours or even days after the injury. Monitor for delayed symptoms especially within the first 24-48 hours as this is the critical window to identify and address potential issues. Note that concussion symptoms can occur even if the person didn’t lose consciousness. Our team at Physical Therapy Associates can help you through this critical window and get you the care you need.

Why Choose Us for Concussion Care?

Physical Therapy Associates has concussion management for your specific needs. Our team is trained in the latest techniques to get you back to safe and optimal. We have experience with multiple concussions and preventing post concussion syndrome and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). From evaluation to rehabilitation we will guide you through every step of the recovery process. If you or someone you know has hit their head, contact us today to schedule an appointment and get started.