Concussion (Traumatic Brain Injury)

Symptoms

You don’t have to lose consciousness to have a concussion. Common, well-known symptoms include looking dazed, feeling unsteady on your feet, and forgetting what happened right before the injury. Some people will not display any outward signs of the injury. This is why it is essential to see a doctor immediately after any brain trauma or significant impact or fall.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will collect a complete medical history and perform a physical examination. When a concussion is suspected, tests of brain function that look at memory, coordination, and balance will also be performed.

Concussions leave no visible sign of injury to the brain that can be observed on CT scans or MRIs.

Treatment

Most people with a concussion fully recover within two weeks. Initially, cognitive and physical rest and observation are required. If symptoms persist, additional neurocognitive rehabilitation programs are considered.

If your symptoms persist for more than 4-6 weeks, additional specialists such as neuropsychologists and physical therapists might be brought in to address your particular symptoms. We often utilize specialized treadmill testing to determine safe levels of exercise while you recover.

You may return to your sport(s) when symptoms go away and you have successfully completed a return-to-play exercise routine. 

Related Topics

• Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
• NeuroSport
• Non-Surgical Treatment
• Surgical Treatment
• Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Research