Post-Concussion Rehabilitation &
Concussion Baseline Testing
Concussions may range from mild to severe and present very differently for each person. In this ever evolving field it is important to have a practitioner specialized in concussion assessment and treatment to ensure a speedy recovery. If you are having symptoms we are here to provide comprehensive assessment, treatment, and referral within our team of concussion specialized providers as needed. We are proud to be a part of the Complete Concussion Network. For more info on baseline testing (we provide comprehensive baseline testing) send a message or give us a call!
Post-Concussion Rehabilitation
Being able to not just 'barely function' but to thrive in life and in sport is of the utmost importance to you and to us! We are highly skilled clinicians with many years of concussion and related training to help you get the smoothest journey possible after a head injury.
We integrate with a software platform called Complete Concussion Management Inc/CCMI, where you will be able to create an account for evidence based information, reports and progression information. Additionally, there is a related app the "CCMI Concussion Tracker" which can help you track the status of your concussion on the road to getting you back to doing what you love.
Our concussion protocols are tailored depending on the patient's needs ranging from ages 10 and up.
Concussion Baseline Testing
Baseline testing is 'pre-injury' testing that is done before there is a head injury; or at least 3 months after clearance from a prior injury. Baseline testing is completed partially online, ahead of your in person visit. The testing establishes what an individual's current functional status is so that if there is a future head injury, there is clear data on what the "prior level of function" for that person was. This helps to establish goals for return to daily life tasks, school, work & sport. Treadmill and/or stationary bike use is involved; please dress ready to move. Through your online registration, you will be able to maintain access to your data and reports; available for individuals agers 10 and older. It is recommended to repeat annually for those involved in activities that have higher risk of head injury.
Vestibular Ocular Therapy
The vestibular system is located within the inner ear and is one of the three balance systems of your body. The vestibular system and your eyes work very closely together. When disrupted following a concussion injury, information may not coordinate properly between the systems. Examples of common symptoms include:
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Dizziness
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Headache
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Fogginess
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Nausea
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Space and motion discomfort
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Blurred/double vision
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Balance problems
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Poor visual concentration
During our assessment we will test all of the systems as well as screen the cervical spine to determine the source(s) of your symptoms. The clinician will then use this information to appropriately design a treatment plan.
Exertion Testing and Treatment
The latest recommendations following a concussion injury are a brief period of rest (24-48 hours) followed by beginning daily subthreshold aerobic exercise. In fact, research has found that performing aerobic exercise actually speeds recovery! How does one know where to start? We perform a graded walking treadmill test (Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test) while monitoring heart rate, perceived exertion, and your symptoms and will determine if there is an issue with blood flow. If this is part of what is causing symptoms the treatment is exercise and we will provide a detailed prescription based on your test.
For our athletes, we also provide more extensive exertion testing that will further test the cardiovascular system as well as the vestibular-ocular demands required for safe return to sport. Any areas that need continued work will be addressed with formal training (specific to your sport) in our strength and conditioning gym.
Cervical Spine/Neck Assessment and Treatment
A comprehensive approach to concussion rehabilitation must also address the cervical spine. Due to the high forces required to sustain a concussion, we consider every concussion to be a whiplash injury. Dysfunction in the neck/cervical spine can cause headaches, dizziness, vision and balance issues, and cognitive issues to name a few. It is important to have an experienced practitioner thoroughly assess to determine where these symptoms are coming from as there can be multiple sources including the spine. As part of the physical therapy assessment process the cervical spine will be evaluated to determine the need for treatment. Cervical spine treatment may include: joint mobilization, myofascial release, postural training, stabilization training, and progressive resistive strengthening.
