Concussions are serious injuries. If you’re unfortunate enough to experience one, it’s important to know what your physical therapist will do for you during treatment. Concussion victims often have difficulty concentrating and feel mentally foggy, which can lead to reduced school or work performance. Physical therapists specialize in treating concussions by improving the head and brain’s ability to function properly again through various rehabilitation techniques. This article will give you insights into how physical therapists treat concussions, so keep on reading.
Physical Therapists’ Role in Treating Concussions
Physical therapists play a significant role in the treatment of concussions. Physical therapists treat many different types of injuries and disorders, but they are most commonly known for their ability to help patients recover from orthopedic issues such as sprains, strains, or fractures. Many people don’t realize that physical therapists also have extensive training in the management of acute and chronic injuries related to brain function and can provide invaluable assistance with concussion care.
The brain is an incredibly complex organ that controls every aspect of our body’s functioning, so it’s no surprise that a traumatic impact on the head can cause serious damage leading to functional deficits affecting memory, vision, hearing, and more. When this occurs due to a sports-related injury, participation in athletics may need to be stopped until the brain has fully healed. Physical therapists can work with patients and primary care physicians to ensure that concussions are managed safely and effectively.
Physical therapy management for a concussion will target the restoration of normal movement patterns, balance, coordination, and strength through specific exercises designed to strengthen muscles in the upper body (especially those around the shoulder girdle) as well as trunk stabilization (the area between your hips). These areas typically see some degree of weakness after impact injury which is why physical therapy intervention is important, they’re trained specifically to evaluate functional movements related to these types of injuries.
How Do Physical Therapists Treat Concussions?
Physical therapists treat concussions, just like they do with any other injury. They work closely with the client to determine what caused the concussion and then help them recover as quickly as possible. For many people, a concussion is not something they want to deal with, physical therapist offers their expertise in this area and also be able to provide recommendations on how you can avoid getting another one. Treatment for concussions may include:
Rest
It is recommended that those who have had a concussion take some time off from school or work until they are feeling better. This allows your brain to rest while still allowing you to make money. When someone first gets a mild concussion, typically there’s much discomfort but if you don’t rest, the brain can become stressed. During this time it is important for physical therapists to monitor your progress and make sure you are recovering properly.
Occupational Therapy
If needed after a concussion, occupational therapy may be necessary. Physical therapists will often prescribe certain activities that they feel would help their clients recover faster from whatever injury they have had in the past or need treatment for now. This allows them to work on those specific areas where improvement needs to occur so as not to affect other parts of someone’s body negatively during recovery times. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treatment plans following an accident such as a concussion but with physical therapist assistance there really isn’t anything they cannot do.
Therapeutic Exercise Programs
Therapeutic exercise programs are used to provide support for the brain, neck, and shoulder muscles. Physical therapists may help with other areas that have resulted from a concussion such as speech problems or cognitive issues. They will work on strengthening exercises to improve coordination of movement, especially after an injury directly affecting the head causing weakness throughout the body which makes daily life difficult due to balance or memory issues cause types of equipment like weights, bands, balls, and many more during workouts specifically designed for each patient’s unique needs. They might even recommend specific adjustments based on their findings through diagnostic testing methods.
Concussions are traumatic injuries to the brain that can have lasting effects if not treated properly. If you or someone you know has suffered a concussion, it is important to seek treatment from a physical therapist with experience treating concussions. Physical therapists can help treat most injuries by providing rest, therapeutic exercise programs, and other treatments that promote healing. Call us today for more information on how we can provide the right care for your injury.
Are You Looking for Help with Concussion Symptoms?
Pace Physical Therapy in San Jose, California specializes in non-surgical relief and recovery therapies for Sports Injuries. Concussion therapy is a highly useful tool in supporting recovery from traumatic brain injury. During concussion therapy, you can expect to work with a highly experienced San Jose, CA physical therapist who will evaluate the severity of your brain trauma and match you with tricks and strategies that can reduce discomfort, alleviate painful symptoms, and improve brain functionality. Physical therapy programs for concussions often build in vestibular therapy, which helps you orient yourself during periods of lightheadedness or loss of balance. The staff at Pace Physical Therapy strive every day to provide excellent service for all our patients because we understand it can be frustrating not being able to do what you love most due to an injury keeping us off the field or court! Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
