Health Center
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can cause lasting effects on brain tissue. They also can change the chemical balance of the brain.
A physical therapist can assess symptoms to determine if a concussion is present. They treat the injury by guiding the patient through a safe and personalized recovery program.
No two concussions are the same. Your physical therapist will examine you to assess how your concussion affects your:
- Neurological system.
- Musculoskeletal system.
- Cardiovascular system.
They will design a treatment plan to address your specific symptoms, needs, and goals. They will help you safely return to home, school, work, and athletic activities.
Physical therapists are movement experts. They improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement. You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation. To find a physical therapist in your area, visit Find a PT.
Symptoms & Conditions
Featured Content
Podcast
PT Overcomes Nine Concussions, Designs Protocol For Treating Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Physical therapist Lauren Ziaks talks about the physical therapy treatment protocol she uses to help people get better after concussion.
Health Tips
Recognizing Signs of a Concussion
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, face, or neck. In the United States, an estimated 300,000 sports-related concussions occur annually.
Podcast
Concussion Awareness and Treatment
Public understanding of concussion risks has improved in recent years, due to increased media attention about head injuries in football.
Did You Know?
Physical Activity After Concussion May Reduce Risk of Persistent Symptoms
In the past, doctors recommended delaying physical activity after a concussion. New research suggests that early return (within one week) to physical activity may actually decrease the likelihood of persistent symptoms in children and teens.
Additional Concussion Content
March 6, 2018 | Guide
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can cause lasting effects on brain tissue and change the brain's chemical balance.
Mar 6, 2018 | Did You Know?
While much is reported on the devastating effects of head injuries among professional football players, new information reveals that children aged 3 to 17 years are also at risk.
Jan 20, 2016 | Patient Stories
"I was so thrilled that I was given a second chance. I couldn't help but be happy and keep a smile on my face, despite the incredible pain I was enduring."
Aug 9, 2013 | Did You Know?
Every 25 seconds a youth athlete suffers an injury severe enough to require a trip to the emergency department, an August 2013 research report by Safe Kids Worldwide found.