A concussion is defined as a mild traumatic brain injury that occurs after a direct blow to the head or a force to the body that causes the head and brain to move back and forth. The force to the brain causes chemical changes and temporary damage to the brain cells. Concussions can occur after falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports related collisions.
Symptoms that occur after a concussion can vary widely from person to person and are based on the severity of injury. Possible symptoms include decreased attention, memory or thinking changes, headache, sensitivity to light or sound, dizziness, poor sleep, vision changes, depression or mood changes. Current guidelines state that rest is recommended only for the first few days after a concussion, followed by a period of reintroducing regular activities. This can lead to decreased symptom severity and better long term outcomes than periods of long term rest.
People who have experienced a concussion can benefit from physical, occupational, and speech therapy depending on their needs. Your therapist will teach you exercises and activities to help address your symptoms and will also advise you on how to return to your work duties or sports participation. Physical therapists can help you with symptoms related to pain, movement, return to activities, and dizziness. Occupational therapists can help you with vision related issues, thinking tasks, and can help you return to completing your daily activities such as driving or household chores. Speech therapists can help you with memory and thinking skills as well as word finding or talking impairments.
The therapists at Engage Therapy are experienced in working with people with concussion and can help you return to doing the things you love. Don’t let a concussion prevent you from doing the things you love! Call our office at 315-810-2423 or email us at info@brainbodybetter.com with questions.
