Understanding Concussions: A Comprehensive Guide

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion occurs when a sudden impact or jolt leads to changes in brain function. This can result in a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Headache

• Dizziness or balance problems

• Blurred or double vision

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Nausea or vomiting

• Difficulty with concentration or memory

• Fatigue, irritability, or emotional changes

  
  

No two concussions are exactly alike. Symptoms can appear immediately or develop hours, or even days, after the injury.

The Importance of Early Evaluation

If you suspect a concussion, it’s crucial to get evaluated by a healthcare professional right away. In our clinic, we begin by performing a detailed assessment to understand the extent of your symptoms and how they affect your daily activities. Early management helps prevent symptoms from worsening and reduces the risk of long-term complications.

We work closely with your physician or athletic trainer to ensure a coordinated care plan that prioritizes safety and a gradual return to activity.

How Physical Therapy Helps with Concussion Recovery

Concussion rehabilitation focuses on addressing the specific systems that can be disrupted after a head injury, such as balance, vision, and neck function. At our clinic, concussion treatment typically includes:

1. Vestibular Rehabilitation

Concussions often affect the vestibular system, which helps control balance and spatial orientation. Vestibular therapy involves targeted exercises to reduce dizziness, improve balance, and restore coordination.

2. Oculomotor and Visual Training

Eye movement and visual tracking can be impacted by a concussion, making reading, screen time, or schoolwork difficult. We use visual exercises to retrain eye coordination, focus, and tracking abilities.

3. Cervical (Neck) Rehabilitation

Neck pain, stiffness, and headaches are common after head injuries. Gentle manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening help restore normal movement and decrease headache frequency.

4. Graded Return-to-Activity Programs

We guide patients through a structured, step-by-step program that gradually increases physical and cognitive activity levels, ensuring symptoms don’t return during recovery. This is especially important for athletes returning to sport or students resuming schoolwork.

5. Education and Symptom Management

Understanding your symptoms and how to manage them is key to recovery. We provide individualized guidance on rest, sleep, hydration, nutrition, and pacing daily activities to promote healing.

Recovery Takes Time

Most people recover from a concussion within a few weeks, but some may experience symptoms for longer. Our goal is to help you regain confidence, comfort, and control so you can return to your normal life safely and with lasting results.

If you or someone you know has experienced a concussion, don’t wait to seek care. Early intervention from a trained physical therapist can make a significant difference in how quickly and fully you recover.

Why Choose iBackCheck for Your Recovery?

At iBackCheck, we understand that “Life doesn’t stop for pain. iBackCheck Elk River is here to help you heal and get back to living.” Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re recovering from an accident or staying active, iBackCheck in Elk River & Plymouth is here for you.

Ready to Start Your Recovery?

Contact us today to schedule your concussion evaluation or learn more about our specialized concussion rehabilitation program. Your recovery is our priority.