Concussion Management
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. It causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can create chemical changes to your brain and can damage your brain cells.
What Are Symptoms Of a Concussion?
Symptoms may include:
- Anxiety
- Balance problems
- Blurry vision
- Changes in sleep pattern
- Concentration problems
- Confusion or lack of clarity
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Loss of consciousness
- Memory loss
- Mood changes
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and sound
Evaluation And Treatment Of Concussions
Concussions can have serious consequences and should not be ignored. Whether your symptoms show up immediately, or days later, they should be evaluated by professionals who specialize in concussion.
Premier Health professionals are credentialed with ImPACT®, a national concussion care program for high school, college and professional athletes. Using ImPACT protocol, we evaluate the severity of your concussion within 24 to 72 hours. Throughout the treatment phase you’ll be re-tested every three to five days until results indicate it is safe for you to return to the classroom, work or sport.
Because every concussion is different, each athlete’s treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis. Rest is the most appropriate way to allow your brain to recover. Depending on the severity of your concussion, this may include:
- Avoiding any activity that requires physical exertion
- Limiting activities that require thinking and mental concentration like video games, television, texting, using a computer, reading, school work
- Shortened school or work days
- A slow and gradual return to physical activity once your symptoms improve
Your doctor will closely monitor results of your ImPACT tests to determine when you can safely resume activity, and the degree of intensity you can tolerate.
Find a Premier Health credentialed ImPACT consultant near you or call (844) 866-HEAD(844) 866-HEAD (4323).
What Is Baseline Testing For Concussion?
Baseline testing is a pre-season exam used to assess your brain function. It also can identify the presence of any concussion symptoms. If you are suspected of having suffered a concussion, results of your baseline test will be compared with your post-concussion test to determine the severity of your concussion.
Physical Therapy For Concussion
When recovering from concussion, physical therapy is sometimes necessary. For these patients, Premier Health physical therapists are specially trained to help improve the outcome. Learn more.
Concussion Education
Concussions are complex. Their potential severity is often misunderstood. Premier Health professionals regularly provide education to the community, including coaches, teachers and school administrators about concussions and how to protect athletes and others from injury and re-injury.
Because multiple concussions can have serious consequences, we work closely with patients and their parents/caregivers to identify and understand the precautions that should be taken to minimize future concussions.
Concussion Guides
If you suspect your student athlete has a concussion, you need quick, easily accessible information about making the best treatment and care decisions. We’ve created guides with information to help you and your student athlete better understand the entire diagnosis, treatment and return-to-play process.
Contact Us
Our sports medicine team is ready to help you get back in the game. Call the location nearest you to learn more about sports medicine services in your area.