Concussion Program

Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury usually caused by an impact to or jolt of the head. If the impact or jolt is great enough, the brain can bounce, twist or bump into the skull enough to cause chemical changes or damage cells.

The most common causes include:

• Injuries from sports, especially contact sports.
• Car and bike accidents.
• Falls, even from lower heights.
• Physical abuse.

Concussions can show up in many ways. You may have only one symptom, or you may have many. Signs and symptoms include:

• Confusion and/or memory loss.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Nausea and/or vomiting.
• Balance issues and/or dizziness.
• Sensitivity to light and/or sound.
• Severe headache.
• Sleep disturbances.

If you’ve had a previous concussion, you may experience different or more severe symptoms with a second one.

Accurate Diagnosis for Optimal Concussion Treatment

Understanding the severity of your concussion is key to how we work with you to create a treatment plan to help you recover and return to the sports and activities you value. The most accurate diagnoses typically involve more than one type of exam. Depending on your injury and symptoms, your team may:

• Perform a neurological exam to test your reflexes, strength, vision and balance.
• Conduct a cognition test to see how clearly you are thinking and remembering.
• Order medical imaging, typically a CT scan.
• Recommend either hospital or home observation to see if your condition changes or worsens.

Once the full extend of your concussion is better understood by you and your doctor, your treatment can begin. Your recovery plan may include more than one area of treatment, such as:

• Neurology, including our Headache Program.
• Rehabilitation, including Physical, Speech and/or Occupational Therapy.
• Sleep Medicine.

Most of all, your brain requires time and rest to heal. That includes both physical and mental rest. It’s important to delay activities like sports, screen time and even school until your team clears you.

If you have a recent concussion or if you’re experiencing long-term effects post-concussion, call our team at (425) 635-6560.