Concussion Physical Therapy

Diagnosis 

Your physical therapist will ask you many questions to understand all of the symptoms that you are experiencing. He or she will also perform numerous tests to identify problems caused by a concussion, including muscle strength, coordination, balance, sight, smell, hearing, and memory tests. During treatment, your physical therapist will repeat the same questions and tests frequently to gauge your progress and help judge when you can return to work, school, sport, or recreational activities. 

 

If you are an athlete who underwent preseason memory (neuropsychological) testing, your physical therapist may collaborate with the health care provider who performed that testing to help determine if you have a concussion. 

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Your physical therapist may also examine your neck for problems following a concussion. Neck injuries can occur at the same time as concussions, and can cause or increase headaches and dizziness.  

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Our Concussion Rehab Treatment 

Davis PTSR Concussion Rehab program can include the following, based on your specific challenges. 

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Rest and Recovery

A period of rest helps the brain heal and helps symptoms clear up as quickly as possible. Your physical therapist will prescribe the rest and recovery program most appropriate for your condition. 

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Restoring Strength and Endurance

We can help you regain your strength and endurance when the right time comes, without making your concussion symptoms worse. It is common for elite-level athletes and fit “weekend warriors” to experience exercise intolerance with concussion and brain injury. Your physical therapist will work with you to identify and treat your particular concussion symptoms. 

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Exercise Program

Our clinical team will design a therapeutic exercise program just for you, and closely monitor your symptoms as you participate in the program. 

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Stopping dizziness and improving balance

If you have dizziness or difficulty with your balance following a concussion, a type of physical therapy called vestibular physical therapy may help. The vestibular system, which includes the inner ear and its connections with the brain, helps you keep your balance and prevent dizziness.

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Reducing headaches

Your physical therapist will assess the different possible causes of your headaches and use specific treatments and exercises to reduce and eliminate them. Treatment may include stretches, strength and motion exercises, eye exercises, hands-on techniques like specialized massage, and the use of various technologies. 

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Returning to normal activity or sport

As symptoms ease and you are able to regain your normal strength and endurance without symptoms returning, we will help you gradually add normal activities back into your daily routine. We help you return to your normal life and sports activities in the quickest and safest way possible, while allowing your brain to properly heal. 

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