  |
 |
 |
 |
    |
What is a Concussion?
A Concussion is a Brain Injury ranging from minor to major that interferes
with regular brain functioning whether that is schoolwork, sports or work.
They are caused by a blow to the head or blow to the body that results in a
whiplash of the head. What used to be brushed off as “getting your bell
rung”, we now know can be serious especially if not recognized and a
second impact occurs.
The awareness of concussions has increased and more levels of
concussion are being recognized. Most athletes don’t even know they have
suffered a concussion until later, when their headaches don’t go away. Not
all concussions cause a loss of consciousness, however it is more common
that an athlete feels dazed or “slowed”. Symptoms a parent or coach may
observe in an athlete include poor coordination, personality changes,
forgetfulness of the injury, and drop in academic performance. Symptoms
the Athlete may report include headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting,
blurred vision, concentration problems, or a vague complaint of a foggy
feeling.
What can Physical Therapy do to speed recovery from concussion?
At WWS Physical Therapy, our Physical Therapists are experts in treating
concussions. Our specialized program incorporates balance and Vestibular
Rehabilitation. Initially the cornerstone of post concussion care is REST.
The patient often does not begin rehab until 3-4 weeks after the event. We
then evaluate the patient’s provocation of symptoms with a thorough
neurological evaluation to include visual testing, balance assessment,
cognitive related symptoms and reaction to exertion. Athletes are
introduced to a 5 Stage Post Concussion Exertional Program that
includes visual- vestibular exercises, coordination and balance conditioning
and sport specific tasks controlled aerobic exercise while closely monitoring
their symptoms. To facilitate recovery a home exercise guideline is
provided and the patient and parents are educated on how to manage
symptoms.
If you think you or your child has sustained a concussion and is
having some of the symptoms mentioned, it is important you call
immediately for an evaluation. We make every effort to schedule these
cases promptly and we work closely with other healthcare professionals
such as Pediatricians, Neurologists, Neuropsychologists, Family
Practitioners and Athlete Trainers.
How can you prevent a Concussion?
Every sport is different, but there are several steps that you can take to
protect yourself from a concussion:
- First ensure that you are following the coach’s rules
for safety, as well as, the rules of the sport.
- Always adhere to good sportsmanship at all times.
- Wear protective equipment, make sure that the equipment
fits appropriately and also that the equipment is worn
consistently and correctly.
- Lastly, it is very important to learn the signs and
symptoms of a concussion.
What should you do if you think you child has had a concussion?
- Seek medical attention right away – A health care professional will be
able to determine the severity of concussion and determine when
your child can return to sports.
- Keep your child out of play – Concussions take time to heal, so don’t
let your child return to play unless the doctor gives permission.
Children who return to play too soon are at greater risk of having a
second concussion because the brain is still healing. The second
concussion or future concussions can be very serious, potentially
causing permanent brain damage and affecting your child for a
lifetime.
- Report to your child’s coach about any recent concussions –
Coaches may not know about your child’s concussion from another
sport unless you tell them.
Concussions don’t only occur in children and in sports. Falls or motor
vehicle accidents that involve a blow to the head or body and whiplash type
injuries can also lead to a concussion. The symptoms are the same for an
athlete, it just may not be recognized. These patients benefit from
Vestibular Rehabilitation as well.
Please visit these links for more information:
About Concussions
Concussion Fact Sheets & Quizes
