Concussions are commonly called an "invisible injury" because for most people, there are no obvious, external signs of injury. X-rays and MRIs are typical imaging studies done in the emergency room or a doctor's office and don't show any objective signs of a concussion. But for anyone that has experienced a concussion, the symptoms are very real, even if no one can "see" them.
Concussions are more common than you think. Click here for statistics on concussions.
Common concussion symptoms include:
Feeling "off"
Headache
Dizziness
Sensation of being off-balanced
Pressure in head/neck
Neck pain
Difficulty sleeping
Light and/or sound sensitivity
Nausea
Feeling tired even when you've slept all night
Exercise intolerance
Difficulty concentrating
Visual disturbances: blurred vision, eye fatigue/strain
There is no typical course of onset or resolution of concussion symptoms. Some symptoms may resolve quickly while others may linger for weeks or months. If symptoms remain for several months or longer, a diagnosis of post concussion syndrome (PCS) may be appropriate. Predictors for developing PCS in high-school athletes include: a concussion history, premorbid mood disorders, other psychiatric illness, or significant life stressors. Other contributing factors that may increase the chances of developing PCS are a family history of mood disorders, other psychiatric illness, and migraine. PCS development does not appear by race, insurance status, body mass index, sport, helmet use, medication use, and type of symptom endorsement. Read more on this research here.
Strategies for Acute (<1 month) Management of Concussion Symptoms
Avoid pushing through symptoms
Nap/take breaks as needed
Take time off work if needed
Reduce screen time and/or use blue light blocking glasses
As for help around the house
Reduce sugar, alcohol, and processed foods
Minimize stress
Use ice or heat (whatever feels better)
Address any whiplash symptoms: massage, physical therapy, dry needling, posture strengthening
Strategies for PCS Symptom Management
Keep a journal of your symptoms to discover symptom triggers
Recognize patterns of symptoms and adjust your schedule accordingly
Find a treatment team to help reduce your symptoms during a flare up: acupuncture, massage therapy, talk therapy
Find a treatment team to help with neuroplasticity and healing: physical therapy, neuro-optometrist
Exercise to tolerance
Develop a health eating plan to help reduce inflammation and promote healing
Train your balance
For tools to help Concussion symptoms: https://www.concussiontherapist.com/shop
For more in-depth, personalized concussion symptom management advice, schedule an appointment (virtual appointments available Globally; clinic or mobile visits available in Central Denver): https://www.physioyogaandwellness.com/book-online
Or email me directly: Jessica@physioyogaandwellness.com
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