I think we can all agree, watching the Broncos is quite a ride!
What isn’t so fun to watch are the injuries that can occur and at the top of the concern list are concussions. These concerns are highlighted by updated NFL protocols which require greater assessment after a player suffers a concussion.
Bronco’s fans experienced this first hand when Welker missed the Chargers game due to concussions.
Years ago, when some got their “bell rung” they would “shake it off” and get back into the game.
However, growing research is demonstrating the long term effects concussions can have on a person’s health. It is estimated there are over three million concussions a year due to sports injuries.
In addition, this number is likely understated as athletes may be reluctant to admit injury.
The Center of Disease Control (CDC) describes concussion as 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, that may or may not involve loss of consciousness. (check out their awesome “Head’s Up” campaign to raise awareness of concussions)
An extremely important message can be found in the last part of that definition: a concussion does not require loss of consciousness. Some have had the misconception that one must lose consciousness to sustain a concussion. This is not true. Below are common signs and symptoms due to concussion.
| Thinking/ Remembering |
Physical | Emotional | Sleep |
| Difficulty thinking clearly | Headache Fuzzy or blurry vision | Irritablility | Sleeping more or less than usual |
| Feeling slowed down | Nausea or vomiting Dizziness | Sadness | Trouble falling asleep |
| Difficulty concentrating | Sensitivity to light/noise Balanace problems | More emotional | |
| Difficulty remembering new information | Feeling tired Having no energy | Nervousness or anxiety |
Many of you are likely wondering how this applies to you and the answer is simple:
We lead active lifestyles with activities such as bicycling, skiing, and rock climbing. These activities put us at risk for a concussion.
For those of you with children, the largest portion of concussions in America occur in adolescent athletes. Professional and collegiate athletes make up a small percentage compared to athletes competing at the high school level and down to pee-wee sports.
If you or anyone you know suffers a concussion, be sure to see your physician for further assessment.
Long term effects of a concussion are not to be taken lightly and proper care is imperative for healing. Many healthcare providers are included in the treatment of concussions, especially physical therapists. Dizziness and balance problems, headaches, and neck pain similar to whiplash are just a few of the symptoms that can be treated with physical therapy.
Many of the symptoms associated with a concussion will decreased with rest, however if they persist contact us at Specialized Physical Therapy and we can evaluate and treat your injury.
