A concussion (also known as a mild TBI- Traumatic Brain Injury) is a serious injury, but the good news is that with the proper care and treatment, most people make a very good recovery. At OrthoNC, we believe that a concussion is a treatable injury.
THE CONCUSSION CLINIC
OrthoNC is proud to offer a comprehensive, interdisciplinary concussion program.
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By combining the expertise of in-house medicine, neuropsychology, physical therapy, and athletic training, our experts understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach for concussion recovery.
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We utilize the most recent advances in scientific literature to provide each patient with an individualized treatment plan, targeted to your specific goals and needs.
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Plus, with a whole team of providers in your corner, we are able to get you back to the activities you enjoy as quickly- and as safely- as possible.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a brain injury, and it must be treated with care.
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Concussions are typically caused by a bump or blow to the head, but can actually even be caused by a blow to the body as well if there is enough force transmitted to the head (such as whiplash).
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During a concussion, the brain shakes around inside the skull, causing a temporary change in the brain’s functioning, and leading to a variety of symptoms.
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You do not actually have to lose consciousness to sustain a concussion (in fact, most people do not), so if something does not feel right, it’s best to play it safe. Remember, “when in doubt, get checked out!”.
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Every concussion for every person is different, so careful evaluation and treatment by trained healthcare professionals is extremely important.
How do I know if I have a concussion?
Concussions are considered a functional injury- meaning they impact how you feel and function- rather than a structural injury. Therefore, head imaging (CT, MRI) is usually normal and there is currently no blood test or lab work to definitively diagnose a concussion.
Recent research has taught us that there may actually be different “types” of concussions. While no two concussions are alike, common symptoms include:
Physical symptoms:
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Balance problems
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Nausea or vomiting
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Light or sound sensitivity
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Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
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Vision problems
Cognitive symptoms:
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Feeling “foggy”
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Difficulty concentrating
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Memory problems
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Feeling slowed down
Sleep symptoms:
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Difficulty falling or staying asleep
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Fatigue
Mood symptoms:
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Sadness or depression
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Anxiety
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Irritability
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Nervousness
If you have suffered an injury to the head and think you might have a concussion — or would like to rule one out — we encourage you to make an appointment with one of our concussion experts as soon as possible. The sooner we can see you, the more quickly we can help you recover.
NOTE:
While a concussion is not a life-threatening injury, more severe head injuries can be. If you experience any of the following symptoms, please immediately call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room:
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Seizure
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Loss of consciousness
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Weakness or numbness in extremities
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Less responsive than usual
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Persistent or worsening headache
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One pupil is larger than the other
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Very drowsy, or cannot be awakened
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Repeated vomiting
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Slurred speech
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Increasing confusion or irritability
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Not recognizing familiar people or places
How are concussions treated? What can I expect at my appointment?
The days of sitting in a dark room to recover from a concussion are long gone. Research now suggests a very active approach to recovery, allowing you to take charge of your course. At OrthoNC, you will undergo a thorough evaluation including:
- Detailed clinical interview
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We want to understand not only your injury but also who you are as a person and what your goals are. We specifically look into pre-injury risk factors that may contribute to a prolonged recovery.
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- Neurocognitive testing
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OrthoNC uses neuropsychological (ImPACT ®) testing as an objective marker of brain function to aid the clinical decision-making process. This is the same test used by the NFL, NHL, and many NCAA athletic departments as well.
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Our neuropsychologist completed a 2-year fellowship with the creators of ImPACT and developed a deep understanding of how it can inform your treatment plan.
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- Vestibular and ocular evaluation
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The vestibular system is in charge of how we move around the world, and how the world moves around us. When it is not functioning properly, we feel dizzy, nauseous, foggy, and just generally do not want to go anywhere.
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OrthoNC has in-house specialists with specialized training to rehab the vestibular system and promote recovery.
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By integrating each piece of the evaluation, our experts work together to develop an individualized treatment plan for you. We strive to understand not only why you feel the symptoms you do, but also what we can do to help you feel better.
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At your appointment, we will also provide concussion education, and work with you to develop a strategy for returning to school, work, and exercise.
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If referrals to other specialists or medication are needed, we will take care of that as well.
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We will work together to get you back to your day-to-day activities as quickly- and as safely- as possible.
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Before leaving each appointment, you will have an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How do I schedule an appointment?
OrthoNC Concussion is proud to have expanded our services. We are able to treat patients who have met the following criteria:
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The injury occurred within the past 6 months
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Ages 5-69
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No brain bleeds or findings on head imaging
There are two convenient ways to schedule an appointment. Schedule an appointment online or call our concussion liaison at (919) 562-9410 ext. 555.
Community Involvement
The OrthoNC Concussion Program team is committed to educating our community on recent advances in concussion management, and helping to promote safe practices. We would be happy to come speak with your school, team, coaches, athletic trainers, and others. If you are interested in having us speak, please call us at (919) 562-9410 ext. 152.
Resources
Tips on Proper Fitting of Protective Headgear
Sports Neuropsychology Society
References