Concussion Treatment

What is a concussion?

A concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury, is the most common type of brain injury that temporarily disrupts brain function. It is caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head that jolts the brain hard enough to disrupt its normal metabolic functioning. The brain's movement can stretch or damage brain cells. This creates an "energy crisis" as the brain needs more fuel to heal and recover. The symptoms of a concussion are a sign of the brain's energy crisis and its efforts to heal.

When managed properly, most individuals of all ages recover from a concussion within a few weeks. However, some individuals take much longer to recover, either because of persistent symptoms that require more specialized evaluation and management or because of pre-injury risk factors that worsen and prolong the effects of the concussion.

Signs & Symptoms

Our sports medicine experts manage symptoms by encouraging frequent brain breaks as individuals return to school, work and daily activities and recommending adjustments in the classroom, workplace and at home to better manage symptom triggers.

Headache
Irritability or behavior changes
Confusion or nervousness
Nausea, dizziness or difficulty with coordination
Sensitivity to light or noise
Blurry or double vision
Sleeping more or less
Sluggishness, grogginess or fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Feeling foggy or confused

Concussion Recovery

Just as every patient and injury is unique, the treatment plan needs to be tailored to the individual symptoms and needs of each patient. During recovery, it is important to know that many people have a range of symptoms that affect them in different ways. Some symptoms may appear right away, while others may not be noticed for hours or even days after the injury. You may not realize you have problems until you try to do your usual activities again, which is why our treatment plan includes routine follow-up and care coordination with schools and teams, in addition to referrals as needed in order to expedite recovery.