Should you seek physical therapy for concussion management?

Concussions are a very challenging injury and treatment should begin as soon as possible. Even if they seem mild, a concussion is still a traumatic brain injury that involves the brain crashing into the side of the skull. The most common immediate symptoms of concussions include headache, confusion, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, ringing in the ears and sleepiness.

If this injury occurs, concussion management with qualified medical professionals should begin immediately to lower the risk of long-term complications and brain damage. One form of treatment that many people are not aware of is physical therapy, which offers a number of specific benefits.

To help you decide if physical therapy should be part of your concussion management plan, the team at Advent Physical Therapy is sharing the following overview. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our caring and friendly team if you have questions or want to make an appointment.

How can physical therapy help concussion management

One of the first goals of concussion management is to ensure the brain is receiving proper blood flow as it begins to heal. A physical therapist can help with this while also helping to ensure mobility and range of motion is returned to the head.

Specific techniques a physical therapist can use to help patients recovering from concussions include:

• Therapeutic massage
• Targeted stretches
• Joint and soft tissue mobility
• Eye motion training to reduce dizziness and nausea
• Vestibular training to help orient yourself

Specific treatments will vary depending on the individual patient and severity of the injury. At Advent Physical Therapy, one of our expert specialists will work with you to develop a plan that is best for your situation.  

Advent offers concussion management expertise

We’re proud of our team of highly-skilled and credentialed physical therapists who have been helping patients in western Michigan find relief since 1996. We have extensive experience with concussion management and related issues affecting the head and neck. Our goal is to help you find the long-term health you need to continue enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle.  

Contact us today at our Grand Rapids, Hastings, Jenison, Grandville, Byron Center, Kentwood or Walker, Michigan clinics to schedule your initial appointment.