What is a concussion?
AKA mild traumatic brain injury, post concussion syndrome, persistent concussion symptoms
A concussion happens when a large blow or force occurs to the head, causing brain symptoms that interfere with daily life such as:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Balance problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty remembering
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- New/worsening sleep problems
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to noise/light
Concussions rarely show up on imaging, but the effects are very real. And very treatable! The vast majority of concussions improve with therapy, even if they happened years ago.
Why are there higher rates of concussion among first responders and veterans compared to the general public?
Due to inherent risks involved in firefighting and certain roles of servicemembers, there is increased exposure to blunt head trauma and blast injuries compared to the general public. Training with flashbangs, slipping on slick surfaces after extinguishing a structure fire and hitting your head, firing heavy artillery, head strikes from combative patients, and IED detonations are all ways of acquiring concussions.
What is the gold standard treatment for concussions?
Concussion specialists around the world look towards the Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport for evidence-based recommendations and guidelines. This includes a Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test (BCTT) or Buffalo Concussion Bike Test (BCBT) with a physical therapist. These diagnostic tests assess the relationship between the heart and the brain during activity. Physical therapists use these procedures and other neurological and musculoskeletal assessments to prescribe exercise as medicine.
What does a concussion therapy session look like?
It depends! Sessions usually start with "how did you feel after last session?". Then we dive into treatment depending on what your major symptoms are, and how much time has passed since your injury.
If dizziness and balance issues are most troublesome, we will start with exercises to stimulate the vestibular system with specific head movements at precise rates and durations.
If headache and fatigue are your dominant symptoms we may start with a nasal release and move on to vestibular therapy later in the session. It all depends on the person!
Staying current with the research
Ask Dr. Bortnick about the brain's waste removal system, the glymphatic system, and its role in concussion and potential TBI recovery! She is a wiz at breaking down medical jargon, explaining rationales behind return to sport protocols, and when to limit screen time based on current research. Ask away!
Falls are the leading cause of concussion in the USA
Most falls are preventable, and can prevent your loved one from accidentally hitting their head and losing their mobility, cognition, and independence.