A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head or violent shaking of the head and body. The impact causes a biochemical imbalance within the brain cells, resulting in decreased blood flow and temporary energy deficits within the brain.
Concussion symptoms typically include loss of consciousness, headache, pressure in the head, neck pain, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, or balance problems. Physical therapy can help offer relief and reduce the symptoms of those suffering from a concussion. A personalized treatment plan consisting of exercises to promote healing can make all the difference during your recovery.
At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers, your physical therapist will help you safely return to activities following a concussion. The exercises designed to help you acclimate back to your routine normally consist of stretching, strengthening, aerobic conditioning, and balance activities. Over time you may experience progress like decreased headache frequency, improved cognitive function, better sleep quality, and reduced risk of prolonged post-concussion syndrome symptoms. Without proper care, you may be at an increased risk of re-injury or additional long-term complications.
It is also important to be aware of the warning signs of a concussion so that you can get help quickly if needed. Common symptoms of a concussion include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, balance problems, nausea or vomiting, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light or noise. Other potential red flags are changes in behavior such as irritability or depression. If someone has been involved in an accident or activity where there was a possibility for head trauma, it’s important to look out for these signs and seek medical attention right away if any are present.
Physical Therapy for Concussion Recovery
At FYZICAL, our individualized treatment plans are designed to reduce pain and improve the healing process by helping restore normal movement, strength, and coordination. Balance training is often a central part of treatment for individuals recovering from a concussion. Physical therapy programs for post-concussion symptoms often use a specialized therapy called vestibular rehabilitation, which helps you orient yourself while experiencing dizziness symptoms. Additionally, physical therapists can provide you with the education needed on proper body mechanics while returning to normal activities.
Concussion Symptoms Vary by Person
The effects of a concussion can differ based on age and gender. Generally, children are more susceptible to the effects of a concussion than adults because their brains are still developing. Young athletes who sustain concussions can experience longer recovery times than adult athletes, making it especially important for them to receive adequate care following an injury. It is important to be aware of these potential differences; our team at FYZICAL will personalize a treatment plan based on these factors.
Common Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms vary and may consist of headaches, confusion, lightheadedness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, ringing in the ears, changes in sleep patterns, fatigue, or drowsiness. Someone who sustained a head injury may also experience mood changes which could result in irritability, stress, or anxiety. While many people associate concussions with more serious long-term effects such as memory loss or cognitive decline, it’s important to also recognize the short-term symptoms of concussion. If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms following head trauma or body impact, it is important to seek medical attention immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Concussions can have long-term effects on the brain, even after symptoms have dissipated These effects can range from mild to severe and may include difficulty concentrating or memory loss. In some cases, these symptoms may last for weeks or months after a concussion has occurred. Long-term cognitive problems can lead to increased complications when conducting daily activities, especially at work. Receiving proper care can help speed up the recovery process so you can get back to your normal routine as quickly as possible. Many people do not understand the severity and potential long-term risks that may occur after sustaining a head injury. During recovery, improving balance and coordination while increasing strength and flexibility in the neck muscles which support the head will help significantly.
Preparing for Physical Therapy
It is important to research what type of physical therapy will best suit your needs, consult with medical professionals about potential treatment plans, and create short-term goals that you would like to achieve through your program. Direct Access gives you the opportunity to choose which physical therapist is best to help you. Completing preparation work beforehand can help you ensure that you are taking all necessary steps for managing your concussion correctly and safely so that you can make progress toward long-term recovery.
Treating a concussion using exercises and activities tailored specifically to each individual's condition increases the recovery potential. With the right guidance and support, recovery programs can help you regain strength, balance, coordination, and other skills lost due to your injury. There are several steps that you can take to ensure you receive the most out of your physical therapy treatment. Actively communicating with your therapist can ensure you are both on the same page, resulting in significant improvement. It is important to follow all instructions from your physical therapist and ask questions if you do not fully understand what they are asking of you. You should also communicate honestly about how you are feeling during each session. This can further help your physical therapist tailor your treatment plan to your needs. Taking regular breaks throughout the day and getting plenty of rest at night will also help give your body the rest it needs to make a full recovery.
Alleviate Concussion Symptoms at Home
There are several steps that you can take to ensure that your recovery process is safe and successful. Make sure to get enough rest and give your brain time to heal itself by avoiding activities such as reading or using electronics for extended periods of time. It may be beneficial to practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or yoga in order to reduce stress levels and help with headaches which are common with this injury. Keeping yourself hydrated throughout the day can help keep your body functioning properly while you recover from your concussion. Your physical therapist will also advise you on which at-home remedies may be most helpful to you.
Balance Therapy Assists in Concussion Recovery
FYZICAL offers a unique balance program that can be utilized in the treatment of concussions. Balance exercises are especially important for people with concussions as they help improve coordination and reduce dizziness and vertigo. Balance therapy can help to increase strength and stability while preventing falls or other injuries that could occur due to imbalance.
Balance exercises also promote proprioception, which is the ability to sense where your body is in space. This helps you maintain balance even when walking on uneven surfaces or in dark environments. Improving cognitive function after a concussion will help you better your concentration and mental focus while performing movements which can help you get back to your daily activities more quickly!
Exercise Can Help Recovery
In addition to balance therapy, exercise helps to reduce symptoms and improve physical and cognitive function. The types of exercises used for concussion management include aerobic exercise, strength training, and coordination drills. Aerobic exercise increases heart rate and helps with overall health as well as improving mental clarity. Strength training is beneficial for increasing muscle strength which can help restore normal postural control after a head injury. Coordination drills help with motor planning skills so that people can move more smoothly through everyday tasks such as walking upstairs or navigating around obstacles in their environment.
The Importance of Rest After a Concussion
Rest is an essential part of the recovery process after a concussion. Not only does it allow the body to heal physically, but it also provides time for the brain to rest and recuperate. Rest can help reduce symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating that may be associated with a concussion.
It is important to note that rest should not be confused with complete inactivity; light activities such as walking or stretching are recommended during periods of rest in order to maintain physical fitness and strength while allowing the brain time to recover from the injury. While getting plenty of sleep is important after a concussion, taking regular breaks throughout the day to give your body and mind some much-needed downtime is extremely beneficial. Taking proper care of yourself after a head injury will go a long way toward ensuring that you make a full recovery.
The Importance of a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for recovering from a concussion. Eating nutrient-dense foods helps the body heal and can help reduce symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. A balanced diet can also provide the necessary vitamins and minerals that support brain function. Eating high-quality proteins helps rebuild damaged cells in the brain following a traumatic event like a concussion.
There are plenty of delicious foods that can provide us with the high-quality proteins we need. From eggs and dairy products to lean meats, fish, and plant-based sources such as beans, nuts, and grains, there are many options for adding quality proteins to our diets. It is important to focus on consuming nutritious foods when recovering from a concussion so that you can improve your overall health and recovery time.
Concussion Prevention
Concussions are a common injury that can have serious consequences. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to help prevent concussions from occurring. Drinking plenty of water and wearing protective gear when participating in contact sports or activities can decrease risk. Additionally, regular exercise can help strengthen the neck muscles and improve balance to reduce the risk of concussion-causing falls. Finally, always wear a seat belt while driving or riding in a car. This simple act can save your life in case of an accident. Taking these precautions will significantly decrease your chances of suffering a concussion.
FYZICAL Can Help
A concussion can be a serious injury, and it is important to get the right care after being diagnosed with one. Physical therapy plays an essential role in helping those who have suffered concussions return to their everyday activities safely. Through physical therapy, you will learn how to manage symptoms like headaches or dizziness while also building strength and stability which are key factors in returning to sport or work. If you have experienced a concussion, FYZICAL can help you get on the road to recovery. With support from our team, you will take steps toward a successful and lasting recovery.