Concussions affect more than 3 million Americans annually, with proper management being crucial for full recovery. At Highbar Physical Therapy, our evidence-based concussion treatment protocols provide comprehensive care from initial assessment through return to daily activities, helping patients recover safely and effectively while minimizing long-term complications.
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that requires proper assessment and management for optimal recovery. At Highbar Physical Therapy, our specialized concussion management team combines advanced diagnostic techniques with personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique symptoms and recovery needs.
Our comprehensive approach begins with a thorough evaluation to assess the nature and severity of your concussion. Using validated assessment tools and clinical expertise, we identify specific areas of impairment and develop a targeted treatment plan. This multifaceted approach addresses physical symptoms, cognitive function, balance issues, and emotional well-being.
We understand that every concussion is different, and recovery timelines vary based on numerous factors. Our team works closely with you to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and guide you safely through each stage of recovery.
Our evidence-based concussion treatment protocols focus on a gradual return to activities and symptom management. Our comprehensive approach includes:
If you aren’t sure or think that you or someone you know could have a concussion, please request an appointment with a physical therapist. They will evaluate the individual to determine if they have sustained a concussion and will then create a plan of action for their recovery.
For patients experiencing persistent symptoms beyond the typical recovery period, our post-concussion syndrome management program provides specialized care addressing ongoing challenges. This comprehensive approach combines physical therapy interventions with strategies for managing headaches, fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and emotional symptoms. Our team works collaboratively with neurologists, psychologists, and other specialists as needed to address all aspects of post-concussion syndrome.
Returning to school or work after a concussion requires careful planning and monitoring. Our return-to-learn protocol includes specific recommendations for academic accommodations and the gradual reintroduction of cognitive activities. Similarly, our return-to-play protocol for athletes follows a structured progression from light activity to full competition, with clear criteria for advancing through each stage. These evidence-based approaches help prevent symptom exacerbation while supporting successful reintegration to normal activities.
Many concussion patients experience dizziness, balance problems, and visual disturbances due to the disruption of the vestibular system. Our specialized vestibular rehabilitation program addresses these symptoms through targeted exercises that improve gaze stability, balance, and spatial orientation. This approach has been shown to significantly reduce dizziness and improve overall function in concussion patients, often accelerating recovery from these challenging symptoms.
We also know that concussions can come from non-sports related injuries as well, like with a work incident, fall, or car accident. That’s why it’s so important that we carefully and methodically check the symptoms to create the perfect balance of education, rest, exercise, and activity to promote a successful outcome for the patient.
In the early stages of recovery, screen use may worsen symptoms and should be limited. As you progress, we’ll help you gradually reintroduce screen time in a way that doesn’t trigger symptoms. Our therapists can provide specific guidelines based on your individual situation and symptom response.
You should seek professional evaluation if you’ve experienced a head injury followed by symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, or sensitivity to light or noise. Even mild symptoms warrant assessment, as proper early management can prevent complications and speed recovery.
If you are experiencing any of the following cognitive symptoms, you may have a concussion:
If you are experiencing any of the following emotional symptoms, you may have a concussion:
If you are experiencing any of the following sleep & energy symptoms, you may have a concussion:
If you are experiencing any of the following physical symptoms, you may have a concussion:
Return to sports follows a structured, step-by-step protocol that begins only after you’re symptom-free at rest. Each stage must be completed without symptom recurrence before advancing to the next level. This typically takes at least 5-7 days after symptoms resolve, but may be longer depending on your specific situation. Our team will guide you through this process to ensure safe return to play.