WHAT ATHLETES CAN EXPECT DURING CONCUSSION REHAB
If you’ve had a concussion, you might need concussion rehab to get better. Your doctor will conduct a comprehensive examination as part of your concussion therapy. This exam will look at all the causes and effects of your concussion. It will also examine any physical or emotional symptoms you may have. Your healthcare provider will make a personalized treatment plan based on the assessment. The goal is to help you get better as quickly and safely as possible.
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. It’s also called mild traumatic brain injury. Most concussions get better in 7 to 10 days, with 80% to 90% getting better in that time. But if concussion symptoms last longer than 10 days, the doctor must check the patient again.
It’s important to remember that children and teens may take longer to get better. Symptoms reported by children under 13 may differ from those of older individuals. Children need a different symptom checklist.
Diagnosing a concussion can be challenging, as the injury is not always visible. A concussion may not be apparent, even if you have a cut or bruise on your head. Symptoms may not manifest immediately. Sometimes, they may take days or weeks to appear. Symptoms can also last from a few seconds to weeks or even longer.
CUSTOMIZED CONCUSSION REHAB
Healthcare providers customize concussion rehab programs to meet the unique needs of their patients. It could mean working with a team of experts. These include physical or occupational therapists, speech pathologists, vision therapists, and psychologists. The type of therapy given can be either one-on-one or in a group. It depends on what the patient needs.
If you experience dizziness or balance issues, your doctor may suggest vestibular therapy. This is a type of physical therapy that helps your body adjust to balance problems. The program helps improve balance and stability. It involves sensory organization training, exercises for stabilizing the gaze, and aerobic conditioning.
If you have eyesight problems, your doctor may suggest vision therapy. It can fix problems that might worsen. It also addresses symptoms that make it hard to read or use electronic devices. Through a series of exercises and activities, vision therapy can improve brain-eye interaction. It can lead to better visual processing and enhance daily performance. Vision therapy includes exercises, therapeutic lenses, and computer programs to enhance visual skills.
There’s also a program for adults who have suffered from severe traumatic brain injuries. They may experience cognitive dysfunction as a result. Participants of this program should have enough stamina for several hours of treatment. The program spans several weeks and incorporates family members into the rehabilitation process. The program allows patients to learn new skills and regain independence in a safe, structured environment.
INVOLVING FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Rehab programs do not only focus on skill development. They also offer peer support. The goal is to help participants overcome challenging behaviors, learn new skills, and set achievable goals. Involving family members in the rehabilitation process helps participants apply what they have learned to their daily lives. With the support of peers and family members, participants can manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
You can speak to the experts at Action Potential in Austin, Texas, to learn more about concussion rehab programs. Call (512) 686-6611 to schedule an appointment and visit us at Action Potential - Sport & Neuro Performance today.
