Post-Concussion
What is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Post–concussion syndrome (PCS) is a set of symptoms that may continue for weeks, months, or a year or more after a concussion – a mild form of traumatic brain injury (TBI). … The majority of PCS cases resolve after a period of time.
Post-Concussion Symptoms Can Be Vague and Often Include
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Sleep Problems
- Trouble Concentrating
- Fatigue
- Mood Disorder
- Balance Deficits
- Anxiety
- Memory Issues
- Lack of Coordination
- Blurry Vision
In general, causes of post-concussion syndrome are the same as those that cause a concussion. A concussion is defined as an injury to the brain that results in a temporary loss of normal brain function.
It is usually caused by a blow to the head or body from a motor vehicle accident, fall, contact during sports or even a household or work accident. The majority of symptoms resolve in 7-10 days (Aubrey et al, 2002).
The distinction between an acute concussion and post-concussion syndrome is, in post-concussion syndrome, the symptoms of a concussion persist beyond the typical 7-10 recovery timeline seen in a concussion.
Post-Concussion Syndrome is treatable. The days of sitting in a dark room waiting for the concussion to heal are over.
Research has shown that physical therapy will help recover balance, focus, gait, mood, and resolve headaches and dizziness (Leddy, 2016). Our trained and licensed Physical Therapists will do a comprehensive evaluation and design an individualized treatment program to help increase physical and mental activity.
We will communicate with physicians, parents/caregivers, coaches and employers to make sure the individual is ready to return to activity, work or play with confidence. Most people can go back to work or school within 1-2 weeks after concussion. Recovery is different for everyone.
