Complete Concussions
Ascend Health is a proud clinical partner of Complete Concussions, an evidence-based concussion management company providing gold standard concussion training for healthcare providers. If you are dealing with a concussion, integrating physiotherapy and OT can be crucial for effective recovery.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting from a sudden impact or jolt to the head or body that disrupts brain function through the stretching of brain neurons. Concussions can cause a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that require proper management for effective recovery.
Possible Symptoms of a Concussion
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PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS
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• Headache
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Brain fog
• Fatigue -
COGNITIVE SYMPTOMS
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• Confusion or disorientation
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Slowed thinking or reaction times
• Word finding difficulties -
EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS
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• Irritability or mood swings
• Feelings of sadness or depression
• Anxiety or nervousness
Causes of Concussions.
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Impact or collisions during contact sports.
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Accidents where the head strikes the ground or another surface.
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Impact from car crashes, especially when the head and neck is jolted.
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Blows to the head and neck from violence or accidents.
Concussion Treatment: Physiotherapy and OT
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• Initial evaluation to assess physical symptoms, such as balance issues, dizziness, and neck pain.
• Development of a personalized treatment plan based on the individual's needs and symptoms.
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• Exercises designed to improve balance, coordination, and reduce dizziness.
• Techniques may include gaze stabilization and vestibular rehabilitation exercises. -
• Exercises to improve muscle strength and mobility, particularly in the neck, thoracic spine and shoulders.
• Tailored exercises to help restore functional movement.
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• Gradual introduction to aerobic exercises as tolerated, such as walking or stationary cycling, to promote overall cardiovascular health and recovery.
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• Techniques to manage headaches and neck pain, including manual therapy, dry needling and education.
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• Guidance on safe return-to-sport and safe return-to- learning and work or daily activities.