Recovery from a Concussion with Holly Thompson, PT

Concussions are rightfully gaining more attention in the sports world. Some of the risk factors that people could experience are headaches, dizziness, loss of concentration, memory issues, or visual problems. These factors can adversely affect daily life, whether you are at work, trying to complete schoolwork, or trying to return to sports. If you’ve suffered one or more concussions, you may have some questions about how to proceed with exercise and physical activity in a safe and responsible manner.

At Tulsa Spine and Rehab, we frequently care for people that suffer from post-concussion syndrome. If symptoms have not been alleviated 30 days after the concussion occurred, we recommend that patients undergo physical therapy. We need to make an assessment by performing an analysis of eye and head movement tracking. Then, the patient can perform some gaze stability exercises to help the eye/inner ear brain connection readjust and return to a normal state. We also work to desensitize the patient from any dizziness that they may be experiencing.

If caught early enough, these symptoms can be eliminated completely in most cases. Contributing risk factors are gender and the number of concussions the patient has experienced in the past. Females are at higher risk than males for longer recovery times, and every additional concussion also increases the likelihood of a prolonged recovery. The typical recovery time is four to six weeks, but if the patient did not receive immediate care, it can take from six months to a year to recover fully.

After a concussion, I recommend at least a week of rest from the activity that led to injury (e.g. soccer or football). If patients are still symptomatic after this time, it is necessary to extend the rest period until symptoms are completely alleviated. If a patient returns to work or school and later experiences headaches or discomfort, they should immediately refrain from activities that caused these symptoms.

If you’ve suffered a concussion, you need trained professionals to oversee your rehabilitation. Contact Tulsa Spine and Rehab today at (918) 743-3737. You can also reach us through the contact tab.