While concussions are relatively common and can result from various incidents, they are a mild form of Traumatic Brain Injury and should be taken seriously. Every concussion is different and can have a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional effects. If you or a loved one have suffered a concussion or suspect concussion symptoms, Twin Boro Physical Therapy offers expert care at 51 convenient locations throughout New Jersey. Physical therapy plays a critical in helping concussion patients on their journey to recovery.
Understanding Concussion Symptoms
Concussions occur when an impact on the head or a sudden movement causes the brain to move within the skull, disrupting normal brain function. While concussions are often associated with sports, they can also result from falls, car accidents, and other types of trauma.
Symptoms and warning signs to watch for include:
- Headache: Often described as a persistent, dull ache, headaches are one of the most common symptoms following a concussion.
- Confusion or Feeling Dazed: Immediately after a concussion, a person might feel confused, dizzy, or unsure of what happened.
- Amnesia: Loss of memory about the event that caused the concussion (retrograde amnesia) is common. Some individuals may also have trouble forming new memories (anterograde amnesia).
- Dizziness or Balance Problems: Many people experience dizziness or problems with balance and coordination after a concussion.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Nausea or vomiting are common symptoms, especially shortly after the injury.
- Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus): Some may experience a ringing or buzzing sound in their ears.
- Fatigue or Drowsiness: Increased tiredness or feeling drowsy can occur.
- Sleep Disturbances can include trouble falling asleep or sleeping less or more than usual.
- Sensitivity to Light and Noise: A heightened sensitivity to light and noise is often reported following a concussion.
- Blurred Vision: Vision issues can occur, such as blurred vision or seeing stars.
- Slowed Reaction Times: Experiencing slowed thinking, speaking, acting, or reading is common.
- Mood Changes: Individuals might experience mood swings, become irritable, or feel more emotional than usual.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Concussion Recovery
Physical therapy is an integral part of the multidisciplinary approach to concussion management. Our teams of experienced physical therapists at Twin Boro offer individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s specific needs and symptoms. Key aspects of concussion treatment approaches include:
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: Involves specific exercises that help retrain the brain to process balance and spatial information more effectively.
- Manual Therapy: For those experiencing neck pain and headaches, manual therapy techniques can relieve and aid in restoring normal cervical spine function.
- Vision Therapy: Physical therapists work with patients on exercises that help improve focus, tracking, and coordination.
- Exercise Therapy: Gradual and controlled exercise is crucial in concussion recovery. Therapists guide patients through exercises that safely increase heart rate and blood flow, which is beneficial for brain healing.
- Cognitive and Memory Training: Concussions can impact cognitive functions. Physical therapy includes exercises and strategies to improve concentration, memory, and other cognitive aspects affected by the injury.
- Patient Education: Educating patients about concussions, symptom management, and the recovery process is a key component of therapy, empowering them to participate in their recovery actively.
Start Recovering with Twin Boro
At Twin Boro Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to providing specialized care for patients navigating the challenges of concussion recovery, ensuring a safe and effective return to daily activities, work, and sports. If you or someone you know is dealing with the aftermath of a concussion in New Jersey, we encourage you to reach out to a Twin Boro location near you for expert, compassionate care. You can also schedule an appointment here: https://twinboro.com/schedule-appointment.html.
