The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that as many as 4.8 million concussions occur each year related to sports. A concussion is a mild brain injury that occurs when the brain is shaken inside the skull, causing micro-trauma to the brain, and altering its chemistry and energy supply.
Concussions happen due to a direct blow to the head or an indirect force, such as whiplash. Football accounts for the most sports-related concussions at (47%), followed by soccer (33%), ice hockey at (14%), and lacrosse (12%). Sixty percent of all emergency room concussion visits come from the 10-19 year old age group. Studies show that most concussions are mild, with 80-90% of symptoms resolving in 7-10 days, allowing the athlete to resume play.
What are the symptoms and signs of concussion that a parent or coach can recognize?
The athlete may appear confused, dazed, or stunned after a head injury. They may forget instructions or have short-term memory loss with a headache. Mood or personality changes may be noticed. They may also stumble while moving and have poor balance. There can be a brief period of loss of consciousness. Other symptoms include dizziness, poor balance, sensitivity to light and sound, and fatigue.
What should a parent or coach do if there are signs and symptoms of a concussion?
1. Remove the athlete from the game or activity immediately.
2. Keep the individual out of all activities that day.
3. A healthcare provider should evaluate the child if the symptoms continue for greater than 24-48 hours.
4. If a concussion occurs, the healthcare provider should determine return to play.
5. Ask your health care provider for written return to activity instructions to be provided for the coach or school as they return to activity.
6. Do not judge the severity of the concussion yourself. Only a healthcare provider should assess and determine when and how to return to regular activity.
How Can a Physical Therapist Help?
Physical therapists can evaluate and treat many problems related to concussions. After a concussion, limiting exertion for the first 24-48 hours is essential. In most cases rest from activity will allow the brain to heal.
However, in some cases, the individual does not respond to rest alone. Because every concussion presents differently, the physical therapist’s examination is essential to assess your individual symptoms and functional limitations. The physical therapist then designs a treatment program. Physical therapy concussion treatment would consist of vestibular therapy (treatment of dizziness or vertigo), oculomotor therapy (eye tracking exercises), cervicogenic treatment (manual therapy and exercise for headaches or neck pain), Balance and coordination training, Aerobic conditioning (exercise to improve brain blood flow), Education and return-to-activity guidance.
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Visit our website for more articles on physical therapy. Learn more about our treatment philosophy, physical therapy staff, and our five convenient locations in Gilbertsville*, Skippack, Barto, Phoenixville*, and Limerick* at www.mishockpt.com.
Dr. Mishock is one of only a few clinicians with doctorate-level degrees in both physical therapy and chiropractic in the state of Pennsylvania. He has authored two books; “Fundamental Training Principles: Essential Knowledge for Building the Elite Athlete”, “The Rubber Arm; Using Science to Increase Pitch Control, Improve Velocity, and Prevent Elbow and Shoulder Injury,” both can be bought on Amazon.
