A concussion, also known as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), is a condition that involves impaired brain function as a result of a traumatic injury to the head. Concussions affect nearly 29% of all adults in the U.S. at least once in their lifetimes. Concussions are often caused by blows to the head during car accidents, sports injuries, and explosions during military service. A person who has experienced one concussion in the past is more likely to sustain more in the future.
Have you experienced a concussion? Here’s what you need to know about when you should see a medical professional for rehabilitation for a concussion.
What are some of the most common symptoms of concussions?
Concussions are notorious for causing a variety of unpleasant symptoms. The most common of these symptoms include:
- Frequent headaches.
- Nausea.
- Trouble maintaining balance.
- Dizziness.
- Impaired vision.
- Memory loss and confusion.
- Fatigue.
When should you see a doctor for concussion rehabilitation?
If you have sustained a head injury that caused you to lose consciousness, you need to seek a doctor immediately. If you suddenly experience any of the symptoms above after a head injury, seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
If you’ve already seen a medical professional immediately following your concussion, you may wonder what next steps you should take during recovery. When should you see a doctor for rehabilitation from your concussion? It’s generally recommended that patients who have sustained concussions begin rehabilitative treatment anywhere from seven to 10 days after sustaining their head injury. Research supports that rehabilitative care for concussions can decrease recovery time and improve long-term health outcomes. That’s why getting the right treatment both immediately after and several weeks after your TBI can make a significant difference in your physical and mental health.
Can rehabilitative treatments be helpful for someone recovering from a concussion?
Yes, rehabilitative treatments can be a valuable tool for someone who has sustained a concussion. If you’re new to physical therapy and rehab, here are some things to know:
- Vestibular therapy — Vestibular therapy is one type of rehabilitative treatment that is commonly used to help patients with concussions to improve their balance. During vestibular therapy, patients undergo exercises that induce dizziness and require balance to practice strengthening their vestibular system.
- Balance and gait training — Balance and gait training can also improve your concussion symptoms during rehabilitative treatment. This training involves practicing walking, sitting, standing and coordinating many other movements. A concussion can impair your balance and gait, but training during PT can help you improve your symptoms.
- Motor skill training — A concussion can interfere with your motor skills. Rehabilitative treatment with a medical professional can improve your condition. During PT, a specialist will likely have you practice repetitive movements to redevelop your motor skills and neuromuscular function. This type of training will improve your ability to write, grab hold of objects, and perform other everyday tasks.
- Planning your return to physical activity — A physical therapist can help you plan for when you can resume physical activity. They’ll help you gradually build muscle strength, improve your balance, work on your range of motion, and learn how to resume physical activity and sports play safely.
Our physical therapists at REPAIR SI can provide you with the concussion rehabilitation you need
At REPAIR SI, our team strives to provide you with a level of high-quality treatment that can’t be matched elsewhere. We provide services including physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture and fitness training. You can rest assured that when you visit us for treatment, we’ll help you work toward your best physical, mental and spiritual life. Our team emphasizes whole-body treatment, which means your care isn’t limited to just one problem area. Your health and wellness as a whole is what matters to us. That’s why we’ve partnered with our community to provide you with the innovative care and quality resources that you need to address your health and well-being.
Each of our team members is committed to serving our community in a compassionate, professional manner to ensure the best possible outcomes. If you’ve sustained a concussion and need rehab, you can feel confident that you’re getting high-quality care with us.
Are you still struggling with the symptoms of a concussion? It’s time to consider REPAIR SI for treatment. Our PT specialists can help you get on the path toward recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. We’d love to hear from you.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.