When a concussion happens, there is damage to the brain, which manifests itself in three big ways: behavioral, cognitive, and physical.
At the time of injury, there are immediate metabolic and neurological changes to the brain, which is why getting evaluated and starting treatment as soon as possible is key. Initial testing can help determine injury severity and to monitor treatment progression. Initial evaluation and treatment can also reduce the chance of a second concussion in the early stage when the brain is not fully recovered.
Evaluation with VOMS, agility testing, eye axis, and cervical spine and neck muscular exams are used to determine when the brain is ready to handle specific athletic loads again. At NMOTION we want to make sure your balance, proprioception, depth perception and ability to track moving objects are back to normal, as this will minimize injuries as you return to sport.
Girls and women will typically experience symptoms for longer periods of time and symptoms/outcomes will vary depending on when the injury occurred in relation to the menstrual cycle due to neuroanatomical differences between a male and female’s brain. At NMOTION we understand these difference and will make sure you get the treatment you need.
If concussions are not fully treated, the athlete is putting themselves at risk of being injured or re-concussed. The team at NMOTION understands that ongoing damage and inflammation can lead to post-concussive symptoms and prolonged return to play. After a concussion the energy system of the brain is off. Sometimes the brain has enough energy, sometimes it does not. There is also mitochondrial dysfunction, cell damage, DNA damage, damage to the blood brain barrier, and oxidative stress – if these are not addressed, your brain never fully recovers. There can be damage to your HPA axis which can affect your thyroid, adrenal gland and sex hormones from three to twelve months after your concussion. Neuroinflammation can last up to a year. Regular follow ups to assess these systems are paramount to concussion treatment and your long-term health. At NMOTION we understand that your brain is precious, and we want to minimize the long term and widespread effects.
Treatment and return to play plans are customized to your injury, symptoms, sport, and goals.