A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that is caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head. The injury can at times keep the brain from working normally. Symptoms of a concussion may last less than a day or may linger for months, or longer. Call a healthcare provider right away or go to the emergency room if a person loses consciousness after a blow to the head.
Symptoms of a possible concussion include:
- Headache
- Vomiting or nausea
- Trouble thinking normally
- Memory problems
- Trouble walking
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Changes in sleep patterns
Research has shown early intervention following a concussion can significantly reduce the long-term impacts and allow the patient to return to work, school or play safely. Therapists at PNRC provide comprehensive treatment to patients following a concussion. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the patient is treated by a team of specialists in speech pathology, neurology, vestibular and balance disorders, rehabilitation medicine and neuropsychology.
The patient is first evaluated by the appropriate clinicians, who performs a series of tests to identify cognitive, language, and vision impairments. The patient will also be screened for vestibular impairments to help identify deficits in balance. Following assessment, a personalized treatment plan is developed for the patient with the spectrum of symptoms being treated by the appropriate specialists.