Concussion Management

What is a Concussion?

  • A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury caused by an impact to the head that present in a wide variety of symptoms. 
  • Common mechanisms involve collisions during sports, falls, car accidents, or acts of violence.
  • Common symptoms include neck pain, dizziness, headaches, nausea/vomiting, confusion, balance problems, vision disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Concussion and Physical Therapy

  • Physical Therapists can assist in the recovery process by:
    • Treating neck pain
    • Working on vestibular, balance, visual, and coordination impairments
    • Progressing exercise intolerance
    • Educating the individual on concussions, self management techniques, sleep, signs that may require evaluation from another healthcare provider, and tips to improve returning to work or school.  
  • Following a comprehensive evaluation, a physical therapist will guide the patient through a staged rehab program utilizing sub-max and sub-symptom thresholds.
  • Common recovery timelines
    • Most individuals resolve quickly however others may require more time. 
    • Average of ~ 2 weeks in adults and 4 weeks in children/adolescents.

Clearance to Return to Play

  • A licensed physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, psychologist, or athletic trainer trained in evaluation and management of concussions is required to medically clear a student athlete to return to play in the state of Maryland (minimum 5 days post concussion). 

Concussion Information:

Schedule Concussion Management Treatment Near You

We invite you to contact our OrthoBethesda Physical Therapy team to find out more about our Concussion Management program and other therapy services that we offer at our Bethesda, MD, treatment center. When you schedule your appointment, we’ll determine the best course of treatment, led by our Concussion Management Certified Therapists. Call us today at (240) 482-2438 to learn more.