The Role of Physical Therapy in Concussion Care

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when a blow to the head or a sudden jolt causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth inside the skull and can happen to anyone, at any age. Concussions are considered mild forms of brain injury, but they should be taken seriously due to the potential for significant and prolonged symptoms. Physical therapy offers a multidimensional approach to concussion care, addressing the physical, vestibular, and educational aspects of recovery. With individualized treatment plans, 4 Oaks Physical Therapy play an essential role in helping patients navigate the path to recovery, ensuring a safe and effective return to their daily lives.

How Do I Know If I Have a Concussion?

Recognizing a concussion promptly is crucial for effective management and recovery. The symptoms of a concussion can vary widely among individuals and may not be immediately apparent. Some symptoms may develop immediately after the injury, while others may appear or persist days or weeks later. Common signs and symptoms of a concussion include:

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
• Dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Ringing in the ears
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response to questions
• Appearing dazed
• Fatigue

There are also cognitive, emotional, and sleep-related symptoms that can indicate a concussion, such as:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems
• Irritability and other changes in personality
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances—sleeping more or less than usual or having difficulty falling asleep

Children and infants may show different symptoms, such as persistent crying, changing eating or sleeping patterns, and losing interest in favorite toys or activities.

What Should I Do If I Think I Have a Concussion?

If you suspect that you or someone else has a concussion, it is essential to seek medical attention, even if the symptoms seem mild. A healthcare professional can assess the situation and may recommend monitoring for the initial 24 to 48 hours following the injury, as symptoms can change or worsen over time. Rest and avoiding activities that could lead to another head injury are crucial during the initial recovery phase. Follow healthcare professionals’ guidance regarding when it’s safe to return to routine activities, work, or sports. Ignoring symptoms or returning to normal activities too soon increases the risk of a second concussion and can lead to longer recovery times or more severe health issues.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in the comprehensive care and recovery process for individuals who have sustained a concussion. Given the diverse and often complex symptoms that can follow a concussion, physical therapy offers targeted interventions to address the specific needs of each patient, facilitating a safer and more effective return to daily activities, work, and sports. Here’s an overview of how physical therapy contributes to concussion care:

Symptom Management
Physical therapists are skilled in managing many of the physical symptoms associated with concussions, such as headaches, dizziness, and neck pain. Through various therapeutic techniques, including manual therapy and soft tissue mobilization, physical therapists can alleviate these symptoms, improving patient comfort during recovery.

Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of therapy that plays a vital role in the recovery process for individuals who have experienced a concussion. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear and brain, is crucial for maintaining balance, spatial orientation, and coordinating movement. When a concussion occurs, this delicate system can be disrupted, leading to a host of challenging symptoms, including dizziness, balance issues, vertigo, and a general sense of disorientation. These symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s daily activities and quality of life. Physical therapists trained in vestibular rehab can assess and treat these issues using exercises designed to restore normal vestibular function and reduce symptoms of vertigo and imbalance.

Exercise Therapy
Exercise therapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process following a concussion. The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the patient’s current physical condition, including any lingering symptoms of the concussion such as headaches, dizziness, or issues with balance and coordination. This assessment helps in setting personalized goals and establishing a baseline against which progress can be measured.

Given the brain’s heightened vulnerability after such an injury, reintroducing physical activity requires a nuanced and carefully monitored approach to ensure the patient’s safety and facilitate optimal recovery. Physical therapists guide patients through a graduated exercise program, starting with low-impact activities and gradually increasing intensity as tolerated. This controlled approach helps to rebuild strength and endurance without overloading the brain during its recovery period.

Neck Strengthening and Flexibility
Neck strengthening and flexibility exercises are a critical component of rehabilitation for individuals who have sustained a concussion, especially considering the frequent co-occurrence of neck injuries with concussions. The force that causes a concussion often impacts the neck as well, leading to strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal issues. These neck injuries can exacerbate symptoms commonly associated with concussions, such as headaches and dizziness, and can contribute to a longer recovery period if not properly addressed. At 4 Oaks, physical therapists assess and address any accompanying neck strain or sprain, which can contribute to headaches and dizziness. Strengthening and stretching exercises for the neck can alleviate these symptoms and prevent further injury.

Education and Prevention
Education is a critical aspect of post-concussion care. Physical therapists provide patients and their families with information on concussion symptoms, the expected course of recovery, and how to prevent future concussions. This includes advice on protective equipment, safe sports techniques, and strategies to minimize the risk of falls or other accidents that could lead to head injuries.

Return to Play/School/Work Guidance
For athletes, students, and working professionals, returning to sports, school, or work after a concussion requires careful planning. Physical therapists collaborate with patients, families, coaches, and employers to develop individualized return-to-activity protocols. These protocols ensure that the patient can safely resume their activities without risking further injury or prolonged recovery.

At-Home Exercises for Post-Concussion Care
While individualized physical therapy sessions are critical for concussion recovery, certain at-home exercises can also support the healing process. These might include:

• Neck stretches to alleviate tension and reduce headache frequency.
• Balance exercises, such as standing on one foot or walking heel-to-toe, to improve stability.
• Gentle aerobic exercises like walking or stationary cycling start at a low intensity and gradually increase based on symptom response.

Start Recovering Today!

Concussions are complex injuries that require a nuanced approach to care. At 4 Oaks Physical Therapy, we understand the multifaceted nature of concussion recovery and offer personalized rehabilitation programs that address the unique challenges faced by each patient. Through a combination of vestibular rehabilitation, cervical spine management, exercise therapy, and patient education, our physical therapists play a critical role in guiding patients through their post-concussion journey. If you or a loved one are navigating the aftermath of a concussion, know that the path to recovery is within reach, and the team at 4 Oaks Physical Therapy is here to support you every step of the way.