What is a Concussion?
The center for disease control (CDC) defines a concussion as a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that interrupts the normal functioning process of the brain. The effects of a concussion can greatly vary from person to person. Individuals do not have to lose consciousness to receive a concussion and because of this, it is not rare for a concussion to go undiagnosed and unreported. Concussions should always be taken serious, especially with young adults as the brain is not fully developed and recovery can take more time to occur.
Common Misconceptions
It is a misconception that you have to receive a blow to the head in order to receive a concussion, that is not the case. A concussion can be sustained in a variety of ways, whiplash, a hit to the body, from the front, side or behind that can cause sudden movement in the head. Helmets and other protective work and sports equipment can only partially prevent injury and concussion. Below are some truths about concussions provided by The University of Kansas Health System.
Misconception – Every concussion requires loss of consciousness.
Truth – According to University of Kansas Health System, only 10 percent of people that experience a concussion will lose consciousness.
Misconception – If you have a concussion you should only sleep 2-3 hours at a time.
Truth – Fatigue is a common symptom of a concussion, the individual should get plenty of rest and sleep, this is important for the brain to heal.
Misconception – Athletes will always openly admit to having sustained a concussion.
Truth– Athletes will not always report feeling symptoms of a concussion due to the desire to continue to play.
Misconception – Children and adults recover from concussions at the same rate
Truth – The recovery time for children is slower than an adults recovery time due to brain development.
Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion
If you or someone else exhibits any of these signs, seek treatment from a qualified healthcare professional immediately: Prolonged headaches, visions disturbances, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, impaired balance, confusion, memory loss, ringing ears, neck pain, difficulty concentrating, sensitivity to light or noise, fatigue, behavior or personality changes, loss of consciousness.
STARS Concussion Program Services and Specialties
Our expert team can provide services including personalize programs and specialty service lines. A concussion should never be taken lightly, the symptoms can linger and become more sever leading to long term implications. The STARS Concussion program can help with treating and preventing further damage and helping you return to work, play, or school.
Services
- Evaluation and management of concussions
- Computer based neurocognitive testing
- Assistance in academic work
- Treatment of post-concussion symptoms
- Educational resources
Specialties
- Emergency Medicine
- Primary Care Sports Medicine
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Neuropsychology
- Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies
- Certified Athletic Trainers
Concussion Team Members – Symptoms
At STARS, Concussion Team members will assist you in a variety of ways. Depending on the symptoms you report you will be directed to a specific Therapy team member. With concussions being complex, it is not uncommon for an individual to see multiple team members for the best possible care and treatment of your symptoms.
- Physical Therapist – Headaches / Neck pain / Orthopedic issues
- Vestibular Physical Therapist – Dizziness / Balance issues
- Occupational Therapist – Cognition / Return to work / Vision issues
- Speech Therapist – Cognition / Return to school / Symptom management
- Neuropsychologist – Mental health issues / Neuropsychological testing / Counseling
- Social Worker – Community resources and referral information / Financial assistance
- MD/Primary Care Provider (*Not on site at STARS) – Medical management including pain and sleep / Medications / Additional referrals
For more information visit www.starspt.org or call 208-367-STAR (7827)
https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/medical-services/concussion-management/myths-facts
https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/
