A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that usually stems from a fall, a car accident or a direct blow to the head and it can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, the physical therapy field is continually discovering new ways to help patients suffering from short term as well as long term concussion complications.
Concussion-Related Issues
Chances are, you won’t be referred to physical therapy during the immediate aftermath of a concussion, when rest is the best way to cope with such short-term symptoms as vomiting, confusion, weakness and headaches. But if these problems persist and new ones arise, physical therapy can be helpful.
Long-term symptoms can be quite varied, depending on the nature of your injury, as well as your age and gender. Some problems for which people seek PT for concussions include:
Ongoing headaches
Loss of balance and frequent falls
Dizziness
Muscle weakness and spasms
How Physical Therapy Can Help
The natural fatigue and required rest that early concussion recovery demands, often results in weakened muscles and lowered activity tolerance. To combat that, your physical therapist will customize a strength-building program for you, as well as guide you through aerobic activities that help you regain your endurance.
Headaches are a frequent complaint when recovering from a concussion. To decrease their frequency and intensity, your PT sessions may include targeted soft tissue mobilization, specific stretches, and even eye motion “workouts.”
Physical therapy programs for concussion often incorporate vestibular therapy, including visual-motor exercises, which helps you orient yourself during periods of lightheadedness or loss of balance.
If you find yourself dealing with lingering symptoms stemming from a concussion, give us a call. We will customize a rehabilitation program to help you manage these symptoms and get you back to living your best life now.