Healing After a Concussion: How Physical Therapy Can Help
Recovering from a concussion can feel confusing and overwhelming. However, many people are surprised to learn that physical therapy (PT) can play a big role in helping the brain and body heal. PT goes beyond “just waiting it out” and provides patients with the tools and guidance they need to recover safely and fully.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head or neck (or even body) that transmits impulsive force to the brain. This can occur with a motor vehicle accident, sports injury, slip and fall on ice, or fall on the playground. The concussion itself may not always be visible in the same way one can see a bruise or broken bone. It is a functional injury that occurs due to changes in blood flow, inflammation, and disruption of the normal communication pathways in the brain.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Concussion symptoms don’t always appear immediately – they can show up hours or even days later. Watch for the following signs and symptoms:
- Headache or “pressure” in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Impaired balance
- Dizziness and light headedness
- Blurry or double vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling slow, foggy or groggy
- Difficulty with concentration/memory
- Sleep disturbance
- Mood or behavior changes
How can a physical therapy help?
When it comes to sports injuries, early detection is key. If you find yourself sidelined for more than a few weeks, don't hesitate to seek help from your healthcare team. In talking with your doctor, you may benefit from physical therapy evaluation and treatment. A physical therapy evaluation involves understanding your unique situation through chart reviews and personal discussions, leading to tailored treatments that promote healing and get you back in the game. This includes:
- Assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the head and neck.
- Assessment of vestibular and oculomotor function as it relates to symptoms of dizziness, imbalance, and blurred vision.
- In-depth assessment of balance and coordination (most commonly using the Balance Error Scoring System).
- Screen for other issues with memory, difficulty with focus and attention that can impact participation in school or work to identify other areas that may need to be addressed with the healthcare team.
What does treatment look like?
When it comes to concussions, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Each treatment plan is tailored to fit your unique needs, considering your history and symptoms. Physical therapy can be a gentle guiding hand, helping you regain balance and strength. Remember, healing takes time, and that’s perfectly okay! Treatment can include:
- Manual therapy to address neck pain and headaches.
- Retraining balance, coordination, and reaction time.
- Vestibular rehabilitation (vertigo, vestibular and oculomotor coordination activities).
- Initiation of cardiovascular training and cardio activities as well as strength training for return to sport or daily tasks.
- Athletes will follow a specific return to play protocol guided by physician, ATC and PT for full return to the specific sport they wish to resume. This protocol includes specific training activities tailored to their sport.
Navigating physical therapy can feel like a whirlwind, but remember, every step is a step towards feeling better. Generally, patients visit the clinic a couple of times a week for a few weeks. However, just like we all have our own quirks, so do our healing journeys. If you've had previous concussions or more challenging symptoms, don’t worry—more time may be needed.
Kathryn Dush, P.T., D.P.T. , is a physical therapist at Rehabilitation Services on the campus of MyMichigan Medical Center Midland. She specializes in vestibular and balance dysfunctions, orthopedics, and certified in concussion care. To schedule an appointment, call (989) 832-4220.
