Concussion Injuries

Diagnosis of Concussion 

Early recognition of concussion is essential for effective recovery. Common signs of concussion include headaches, dizziness, nausea, mood changes, irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and mental fog. Sleep disturbances such as trouble falling asleep, oversleeping, or restless sleep are also frequent symptoms.  

Check full lists of symptoms and risks of concussions

Accurate concussion diagnosis is key to effective concussion treatment. Medical professionals assess the injury using physical, cognitive, and imaging tests to determine the best course of action. Visiting a specialized concussion clinic can provide access to advanced diagnostic tools and tailored care plans.

Neurological Examinations

Neurological exams assess reflexes, balance, coordination, muscle strength, and sensory responses to detect brain function disruptions. Signs like delayed reflexes or balance issues help guide treatment and track recovery progress.

Cognitive Testing

Cognitive tests evaluate memory, attention, and problem-solving using standardized tools to identify deficits not visible in physical exams. These assessments help tailor treatment plans.

Imaging Tests

While concussions often don’t show structural damage, CT scans and MRIs are used to rule out complications such as bleeding or swelling in cases of severe symptoms like prolonged unconsciousness or vomiting.

Self-Diagnosis

Online concussion tests and symptom checklists can provide initial insights, but professional evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Concussion Treatment

Concussion treatment is tailored to the severity of injury and the individual’s specific symptoms. Concussions, classified as mild traumatic brain injuries, disrupt normal brain function temporarily. A thorough concussion assessment is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment for mild concussions focuses on rest, symptom monitoring, and gradual return to activities. Moderate to severe concussions, however, may require a comprehensive medical evaluation and additional interventions. Understanding how to treat a concussion involves managing symptoms effectively while giving the brain time to heal. 

Early diagnosis and a well-structured concussion treatment plan ensure the best outcomes for patients. Effective concussion management requires a structured approach to reduce symptoms and prevent complications. Moore MyoWorx offers advanced treatment options, including TM20 Therapy and the Accelerated Recovery Program (ARP), to support faster and more complete recovery.

TM20 Therapy and Accelerated Recovery Program

Moore MyoWorx specialized treatments focus on addressing the root causes of concussion symptoms:

• TM20 Therapy: A neuromuscular therapy designed to relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow, and support brain function recovery by addressing muscle imbalances.
• Accelerated Recovery Program (ARP): A comprehensive treatment plan combining TM20 therapy and innovative techniques to restore neurological function, enhance mobility, and minimize long-term complications through personalized treatment sessions.

Moore MyoWorx specializes in a comprehensive approach to concussion treatment, addressing both immediate and long-term symptoms to restore your well-being. Don’t let concussion symptoms linger—our expert care can help you recover effectively and regain your quality of life. Contact us today to start your journey to recovery.

Rest and Activity Management

Proper rest is crucial in the early stages of recovery. Physical rest involves avoiding strenuous activities like sports, heavy lifting, or rough play, while cognitive rest means limiting screen time, work, and mentally demanding tasks. Gradual reintroduction of activities under medical supervision ensures a safe recovery process.

Pain Management

Managing concussion-related headaches carefully is important. You may consider avoiding NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin, which may increase the risk of bleeding. Instead, you may consider using acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief. Regarding any medication, consult with your doctor.

Long-Term Recovery Solutions

For persistent symptoms, targeted therapies neuromuscular therapy for pain, balance, and coordination, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) (for mood management), and speech therapy (for cognitive challenges), can aid recovery.

What are the 5 stages of concussion protocol?

The 5 stages of concussion protocol typically include:

• Symptom-limited rest: Rest until symptoms improve.
• Light aerobic exercise: Activities like walking or stationary cycling at low intensity.
• Sport-specific exercise: Gradual return to non-contact activities.
• Non-contact training drills: Add movement and practice drills but avoid head impacts.
• Full-contact practice: Resume normal activities under supervision.

What do you do for a concussion at home?

At home, for the first 48 hours, get plenty of physical and mental rest. Avoid activities that require physical exertion and screens, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and monitor symptoms. Create a quiet, dark environment to ease discomfort and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

How do I get my brain back to normal after a concussion?

To alleviate concussion symptoms, prioritize rest in a calm and quiet environment. Consider using acetaminophen for pain management, and avoiding NSAIDs such as ibuprofen during the initial recovery phase (consult with your doctor about taking any medications). Maintain proper hydration and incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, to reduce stress. Additionally, minimize exposure to bright lights and loud noises, and avoid multitasking and overexertion to support the healing process.

What worsens a concussion?

A concussion can deteriorate if physical activities are resumed prematurely, or if there is exposure to bright lights, loud noises, or other overstimulating environments. Insufficient rest, excessive screen use, reading, and neglecting persistent symptoms can significantly delay recovery and increase the risk of complications.

How long does a concussion take to fully heal?

Concussion recovery time varies based on the individual and injury severity. Most mild concussions heal within 7 to 10 days, but some may take weeks or months, especially in cases of multiple concussions or underlying health conditions [1].

Factors such as age, previous concussions, and adherence to concussion treatment protocols can impact recovery. Children and adolescents often take longer to heal due to their developing brains. Proper rest and medical guidance are crucial for a full recovery.

Preparing for a Visit to the Doctor

A well-prepared visit to the doctor can significantly enhance the quality of care and ensure all concerns are addressed effectively. To make the most of your consultation, it is essential to gather and organize key information in advance. Here are some steps to help you prepare:

1. Timeline of Symptoms

Record when symptoms began, how they’ve progressed, and any patterns you’ve noticed. Be specific about the intensity, frequency, and duration of issues like headaches or dizziness to help your doctor assess your recovery.

2. Identify Triggers

Note activities that worsen symptoms, such as screen time, physical exertion, or exposure to bright lights and noise. This helps your doctor recommend lifestyle adjustments and targeted treatments.

3. Medications and Health History

Prepare a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take, along with details of past concussions or related medical conditions. This information helps identify potential risks and guides treatment decisions.

Providing this information ensures your doctor can develop a personalized mild concussion treatment plan for effective recovery.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Concussion Treatment

To better understand your condition and recovery, consider discussing the following with your healthcare provider:

1. How severe is my concussion, and how will it affect my daily life?
2. What symptoms should I watch for during recovery?
3. What activities should I avoid while recovering?
4. When can I return to work, school, or sports?
5. How can I manage headaches or other symptoms?
6. Are over-the-counter pain relievers safe, and which ones should I avoid?
7. How can I improve my sleep during recovery?
8. What should I do if my symptoms get worse or new ones appear?
9. Should I follow a specific diet or hydration plan?
10. Are there long-term risks or complications from my concussion?
11. How will you know if I have post-concussion syndrome (PCS)?
12. Do I need tests like a CT scan or MRI?
13. Should I be concerned about mood or memory issues?
14. How will I know when I’m ready for physical activity?
15. Is it safe for me to drive?
16. Am I at higher risk for future concussions?

At the end of the day, your health and recovery matter. Effective concussion treatment requires a combination of timely diagnosis, immediate attention, and customized recovery plans. Our clinic provides expert guidance and innovative treatment to help you regain function and prevent further complications. 

Whether you’re dealing with a recent concussion or lingering symptoms, we’re here to support your journey to wellness. Contact us for a personalized evaluation and start your path to recovery today.