What is Physical Therapy for Concussions?
Concussions are any structural or metabolic disturbance to the central nervous system following an impact. Physical therapy can evaluate and treat many impairments after a concussion.
What we fix:
Musculoskeletal
• Neck pain from associated whiplash
• Overall fatigue and weakness
• Poor cardiovascular endurance
Ocular-Motor
• Dizziness, headaches, and nausea associated with reading or focusing
• Motion intolerance
Concentration
• Impaired memory
• Impaired ability to focus at school or work
• Difficulty multi-tasking
Balance
• Poor balance or stability when walking in the community
• Poor balance or stability when participating in recreational activity
In non-sport-related concussions, up to 33% of individuals may exhibit symptoms beyond 3 months.
How we fix it:
Education
• Explanation of Condition
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Activity Modification
Manual Therapy
• Myofascial and Soft Tissue Release
• Connective Tissue Manipulation
• Trigger Point Release
• Joint Mobilizations
Exercise
• Strengthening and cardiovascular exercises to return to prior level of function
• Ocular-motor exercises to address dizziness or headaches
• Memory exercises to improve daily function
• Balance exercises to improve safety with daily activities
“After my bike accident, resulting in elbow surgery, I was diagnosed with a concussion and BPPV (vertigo). I had no idea PT was an option to treat my head trauma until I found out that Specialized treats this. After a couple of sessions… the dizziness and vertigo from my concussion were gone.” C.C.
Are you or a loved one experiencing any of the following symptoms after an impact or an injury to your head?
• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty sleeping
• Impaired memory
• Poor cardiovascular endurance
• Poor balance
If “yes”, please call and schedule a consult with one of our physical therapists trained in treating concussions.
