Concussions are becoming more understood by the medical community and a greater
amount of research is being done regarding causes of concussion and the effects it has
on the brain and body. The brain is a very complex structure and injury to it can
manifest itself in a variety of ways. There may be emotional, mental, physical or sleep
related complaints expressed by those suffering from a concussion. A person who
suspects they may be suffering from a concussion should first see their doctor to
confirm their diagnosis and find out the best initial course of treatment for them.
After a concussion up to 80% of people will heal within 7-10 days (1), but if someone
continues to have persistent headache or pain complaints or dizziness/vertigo or
imbalance complaints then they may be a good candidate for physical therapy to help
with the healing process. Your doctor will be able to let you know when you are ready
to seek the assistance of a physical therapist for your ongoing complaints.
Physical therapy can help in a number of different ways. Vestibular trained therapists
can evaluate a person suffering from a concussion and determine an individualized plan
to rehabilitate the affected vestibular system. Sports trained physical therapists can
help to design a customized training program to build strength and safely progress a
person's endurance, whether for usual daily activity or more intense sport specific
training needs. A therapist with more advanced training in manual therapy can also
help deal with the hands on needs a patient may have in treating their headache
complaints or pain related to their neck.
Physical therapy has a lot to offer those who may have a more delayed recovery course
from a concussive injury. Fyzical Therapy and Balance Center is blessed to have
therapists with vestibular and manual training as well as strength and conditioning
specialists, for more sport specific training programs related to athletes, to help with
return to normal daily activities or an athlete’s chosen sport.
To make an appointment call 717-591-3000 or click here
By: Tonya Wasielweski, PT
References:
1. McCrory P et al. Consensus statement on concussion in sport: the 4th
International Conference on Concussion in Sports held in Zurich,November
2012.J Am Coll Surg. 2013; 216(5):e55-71.