Excel PT: Concussions

Excel PT: Concussions

EXCEL PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICIAN UPDATE

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CONCUSSION AND POST- CONCUSSION SYNDROME

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Concussion And Post-

What is a concussion? A concussion, also known as mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), is a common injury that may cause impairments in brain function.¹ Now often described as a public health crisis due to its increasing occurrence, concussion most often occurs as a result of a blow to the head that causes a rapid, jarring brain movement within the skull.

By Andrew Bacon, PT, DPT, Washington Square Clinic

Forces from injuries to the head (such as those suffered in sports or in falls) can “slosh” the brain back and forth, which causes the brain to be pulled and stretched in a way that leads to widespread injury and results in various debilitating symptoms. 2, 3 What Are Initial Signs and Symptoms of Concussion? Signs and symptoms of concussion will be noticeable at the onset of injury. Many athletes experience difficulty recalling events prior to or after a hit or fall. They appear to be dazed or stunned, they might even forget instructions or where they are. If you notice someone has lost consciousness, shows mood or behavior changes, or is moving slowly they should stop their activity or play and seek help. More serious symptoms, include vomiting, blurry vision, dizziness, bothered by light or sound, or just not feeling “right”. Again, we advise coaches, parents and athletes to monitor players to seek professional help immediately. What is Post-Concussion Syndrome? Most concussion symptoms will improve within 7-10 days if the patient is able to adequately rest (physical and mental rest is very important within this time frame). However, for a number of reasons, some people may experience symptoms for much longer. If symptoms persist for longer than 10 days, post-concussion syndrome (PCS) may have developed.

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Concussion Syndrome

Symptoms of post-concussion syndrome include:

1. Cognitive deficits (memory, attention, and concentration difficulty)

2. Fatigue, sleep disturbance/insomnia

3. Headache, dizziness

4. Irritability, personality changes 2

Physical Therapy and Post-Concussion Syndrome While the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome may be debilitating, physical therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment that allows your patient to return to daily life and sport. 3 For athletes, research has shown that those who participate in active rehabilitation like PT are four times more likely to return to sport in eight weeks than those who did not. Physical therapy for PCS will include several individualized exercises and techniques aimed at reducing a patient’s specific symptoms and limitations. Exercises may be targeted to address dizziness, cognitive deficits, aerobic limitations, and associated neck pain, among others. 4 Excel Physical Therapy has many physical therapists with certifications and experience treating those with concussion. If you suspect that your patient may be suffering from acute or long-standing concussion symptoms, refer them to Excel Physical Therapy. A call to your local Excel Physical Therapy office can help point you in the necessary direction. References: 1. Giza C, Greco T, Prins ML. Concussion: pathophysiology and clinical translation. Handb Clin Neurol. 2018;158:51-61. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-63954-7.00006-9 2. Leddy JJ, Sandhu H, Sodhi V, Baker JG, Willer B. Rehabilitation of Concussion and Post-concussion Syndrome. Sports Health. 2012;4(2):147-154. doi:10.1177/19417381 11433673 3. Rutherford K, Rylander T. Concussion. Presented at the: Vestibular Rehabilitation and Concussion; May 7, 2021. 4. Walston L, Walston Z, McLester C, Yake D. A Symptom-Based Approach to Sports-Related Concussion Rehabilitation in Adolescents: A Case Series. JOSPT Cases. February 2021. https://www.jospt.org/doi/abs/10.2519/ josptcases.2021.9874. Accessed June 29, 2021.

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Patient Success Spotlight

“My experience at Excel with Elizabeth “Liz” Butkus, PT, DPT was exceptional. I came to Excel with an untreated concussion and a current concussion. When I first came to PT, nothing in my normal life felt right. I felt very defeated and confused by all the symptoms. Liz took the time to learn more about me and understand my different symptoms. She took time to explain and treat my concussion in a way that would still benefit my busy schedule of being a student teacher, graduating college, and starting my first teaching job. Overall, I would not be in my current job without Liz’s patience, help and positivity every time I come to PT.” - Nicole B. (Kennett Square Patient) “Overall, I would not be in my current job without Liz’s patience, help and positivity every time I come to PT.”

Specialties Offered At Excel Physical Therapy

• Balance & Vestibular Rehab • Concussion Rehab Program • Functional Movement Screens (FMS)

• Manual Therapy – ART & Graston Techniques • McKenzie Method • Pelvic Health • Pre- & Post-Surgical Rehab • TMD (Temperalmandibular Dysfunction)

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