We often think of concussions as "mild," short-term injuries. But in reality, a concussion is a traumatic brain injury. According to the CDC, concussions account for a shocking 75% of all brain injuries, and they can significantly disrupt an individual's daily life. Between pounding headaches, nausea, confusion, and visual impairments, the effects of concussions can be devastating. Here's a guide to concussion rehabilitation in Centennial, CO.
But before we dive in and discuss rehab options, let's first examine why it's so important in the first place.
What are the short-term effects of a concussion?
After sustaining a concussion, many people experience severe headaches and confusion. Worse yet, some also experience memory loss. Here are just a few of the short-term effects of a concussion:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Loss of balance
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Ringing in your ears
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Brain fog
- Sensitivity to light and sound
What are the long-term effects of a concussion?
Most often, concussion-associated symptoms resolve within 1 - 6 weeks. However, some people suffer much longer. If symptoms persist for months after a concussion, you could have post-concussion syndrome.
The long-term effects of post-concussion syndrome include:
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Impaired judgment
- Problems with decision making
- Poor impulse control
- Inability to learn new skills
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately.
Treatment options for concussion rehabilitation
In a majority of cases, successfully treating a concussion will take a multi-faceted approach. Here at McWhorter CNR, we offer several concussion rehabilitation options so you can find the relief you really need.
Neurofeedback
Concussions are linked to the production of irregular brainwaves, which can lead to many of the symptoms associated with concussions and post-concussion syndrome. Neurofeedback uses EEG technology to provide real-time feedback about your brainwave activity. A positive reward is used to help train your brain to form new neural connections and produce "regular" brainwaves after the injury has occurred.
Gyrostim
This cutting-edge brain training device provides a unique way to stimulate the brain while simultaneously improving focus, concentration, and reaction time. Gyrostim works by using a combination of sensory input and motor output. This allows users to practice their ability to process information quickly and accurately.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)
When you suffer a blow to the head, your brain swells up inside your skull. This makes it difficult for oxygen to reach it. HBOT restores oxygen to your brain and helps heal damaged tissue. It can even promote the production of new stem cells too.
DynaVision
DynaVision is another fantastic option for concussion rehab. It works to help improve neurocognitive test levels, gross motor skills, and response times to visual stimuli. Here's how it works. Light switches are organized in circles and mounted to a wall. You stand in front of the wall and try to hit the right light switch as they light up. In doing so, visual-motor coordination and peripheral visual awareness improve significantly.
Learn more about concussion rehabilitation in Centennial, CO
If you're interested in learning more about concussion rehabilitation in Centennial, CO, reach out to us today at McWhorter CNR. Our team is here to help in your path to recovery.
Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.