Understanding Concussion: What Happens in the Brain?

When most people hear the word concussion, they think of big hits in sports or someone being knocked out. But concussions can happen in many different ways—car accidents, slips and falls, or even a mild bump to the head.

A concussion is actually a form of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). It temporarily changes how the brain works, and although most concussions are not life-threatening, they do deserve attention, rest, and proper care.

Symptoms can be different for every person. Some may feel dizzy or tired, while others notice changes in concentration, mood, sleep, or vision. This is normal—and it’s why understanding what’s happening inside the brain can be reassuring.

⭐ What Happens in the Brain During a Concussion?

Think of the brain like soft tissue protected inside a hard shell (the skull). When the head moves suddenly—whether from a fall, a car stopping quickly, or a hit—the brain can shift or “bounce” inside the skull.

This quick movement can:

🧠 1. Stretch the brain’s cells (neurons)

They don’t usually tear, but they can get stressed or irritated.

⚡ 2. Disrupt the brain’s communication signals

Neurons use chemicals called neurotransmitters to talk to each other. After a concussion, these signals may become “static-filled” or out of balance.

🔋 3. Create a temporary energy imbalance

Your brain suddenly needs more energy to repair and rebalance itself—at the same time that it has less energy available. This is why people often feel tired, foggy, or overwhelmed.

Because of these changes, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Headaches

• Dizziness or unsteadiness

• Blurred or sensitive vision

• Fatigue

• Trouble concentrating

• Irritability or mood changes

• Sleep problems

Most symptoms improve over days to weeks. But some people may feel lingering effects that benefit from targeted, structured care.

🌈 Why Multidisciplinary Care Is So Important

A concussion doesn’t just affect one part of you—it can affect many systems at the same time. That’s why having a team approach can make recovery smoother and more complete.

Here’s how different specialists often help:

🏃 Physical Therapy (PT)

Helps with dizziness, balance problems, neck pain, and returning safely to physical activity.

👐 Occupational Therapy (OT)

Supports daily activities like work, school, organization, vision-related tasks, and energy management.

💬 Speech-Language Therapy (SLP)

Helps with thinking skills such as memory, attention, and problem-solving, and supports communication if it feels harder to find words or stay focused.

🧠 Neuropsychology

Helps with mood, anxiety, mental clarity, and return-to-learn or return-to-work planning.

👩‍⚕️ Medical Providers

Monitor symptoms, guide care, and ensure recovery is safe and individualized.

Together, these providers look at the whole picture, not just one symptom. This team-based approach is often the most effective way to support both your brain and your quality of life.

💙 You’re Not Alone—and Recovery Is Possible

A concussion can feel frustrating or confusing, but healing happens. With rest, guidance, and support from a multidisciplinary team, most people recover fully and return to the activities they love.

This week is all about understanding what happened and taking the first steps toward a healthy, supported recovery.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward expert, one-on-one therapy care, contact Engage Therapy today at 315-810-2423 to get started.