Evaluating and treating concussions promptly is crucial, not only to promote swift recovery but to prevent long-term complications. At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we recognize the importance of immediate intervention where acute concussions are concerned, so we are delighted to have Dr. Chator onboard. His extensive training and experience treating sports-related concussions is an invaluable addition to our team.
Dr. Chator’s expertise enhances our holistic, non-surgical approach to pain relief and restoration of function. Like all of our talented physiatrists, he is well-versed in both traditional and complementary medical therapies, many of which are useful in helping our patients recover from the effects of acute concussions.
Understanding Concussions
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting from a blow or jolt to the head. This injury disrupts normal brain function and can cause a wide range of physical, cognitive, behavioral, sensory, and emotional symptoms.
If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury that you suspect may have resulted in a concussion, contact our offices now for an evaluation and accurate diagnosis. The latter is key to pursuing the right course of treatment by taking appropriate, immediate steps to relieve pain and promote healing.
Unfortunately, the brain, although protected by the fortress of the skull, can be negatively impacted without being directly touched. Any time the skull or neck is impacted, the brain can be shaken and bang against the bones of the skull, causing mild or severe concussion. While severe TBIs typically require intensive care and possible surgery, mild TBIs can be treated outpatient by our skilled physicians.
How Concussions Occur
Mild concussions are common and can occur in a number of ways. Many patients unknowingly remain at risk because they don’t realize that a bang on the head may have resulted in more than a bump or bruise — it may have caused brain damage. That’s why it is critical to be checked by a doctor when you have a head injury due to any of the following:
Contact Sports
Concussions commonly occur in contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey. Athletes are at risk from collisions, falls, and being hit with equipment. Immediate assessment and intervention are indispensable to ensure athletes recover fully before returning to normal activities, and especially before returning to their sport.
Non-Contact Sports
Even in non-contact sports such as cycling, gymnastics, and cheerleading, concussions can happen due to falls or accidental impacts. Ensuring proper safety measures and rapid treatment helps prevent long-term effects and ensures a quick return to activity.
Car Accidents
Vehicular accidents are a significant cause of concussions. The forceful jolt or impact can result in brain injury, particularly for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists (even with helmets), necessitating immediate medical evaluation to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
Falls
Falls are a common cause of concussions, especially in older adults and young children, occurring, as they often do, on slippery surfaces, stairs, or from playground equipment. Addressing underlying risk factors, such as poor balance or environmental hazards, is crucial in preventing falls.
Assaults
Concussions resulting from assaults require immediate medical attention to address both the physical injury and accompanying emotional trauma. Comprehensive care is needed to ensure thorough support and recovery.
Signs and Symptoms of Concussions
Though there are numerous possible symptoms of concussions, it is necessary to be aware of all of them:
- Headache, dizziness, pressure in the head
- Visual disturbances, e.g. “seeing stars”
- Ringing in the ears, disturbances in smell or taste
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Confusion or mental “fog”
- Memory loss (amnesia)
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability, rage, depression, or other personality changes
- Sleep disturbances, including sleeping more or less than usual
- Balance problems
The symptoms of a concussion can be subtle or delayed and may last for days, weeks, or even longer. If you’re unsure if you have a concussion, always err on the side of caution and have a medical evaluation.
Treatments for Acute Concussions
Rest and Relaxation
Adequate rest is absolutely essential in the early stages of concussion recovery. Both physical and cognitive rest are necessary for the brain to heal.
Careful Monitoring and Gradual Return to Regular Activities
Patients with acute concussions require close monitoring to track symptom progression and prevent complications. A gradual, step-by-step return to daily activities, supervised by a knowledgeable doctor, ensures that your brain will not be overstressed during recovery.
Physical and Vestibular Therapy
Physical therapy can be important in restoring strength and flexibility, especially since concussions are often accompanied by other injuries. Vestibular rehabilitation helps to manage dizziness and balance issues, symptoms that can be disorienting and even disabling.
Pain Management with Medications
Pain relief is an essential component of concussion treatment. Medications may be prescribed to manage headaches and other associated pains. In the immediate aftermath of an acute concussion, however, NSAIDs should be avoided due to the risk of intracranial bleeding.
Corticosteroid Injections
In some cases, corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, often in combination with other therapeutic approaches.
Other Therapies
Our practice offers a range of other therapies tailored to individual patient needs, including acupuncture and PEMF to support holistic healing. If the patient’s symptoms warrant, we may also refer them to a neuropsychologist for further assessment and treatment.
If You Suspect an Acute Concussion, Contact Us Now!
At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we have an impressive recovery rate for acute concessions. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Chator, we provide personalized care to ensure optimal outcomes for each patient, no matter how divergent their symptoms. If you may have suffered a concussion, there is no time to waste. Get in touch with us now so we can help you heal as smoothly and rapidly as possible.