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Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a complex disorder that can occur after a mild traumatic brain injury, such as a concussion. While most people recover from a concussion within a few weeks, some continue to experience symptoms for months or even years. This lingering impact is what we refer to as post-concussion syndrome.
Written by
Angel Rigueras
Pain Management Specialist
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Written by
Angel Rigueras
Pain Management Specialist
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Post-concussion syndrome is not solely linked to the severity of the initial concussion. Instead, it’s related to how the brain responds and adapts after the trauma. During a concussion, the brain is jolted inside the skull, leading to cellular damage, and triggering inflammation.
While most people recover as the brain heals, some experience prolonged symptoms because the brain continues using less efficient processing pathways. This can happen when the affected brain cells struggle to get the needed oxygen and nutrients, resulting in ongoing symptoms.
At University Orthopedic Care (UOC), we recognize the challenges of living with PCS and are committed to helping patients regain control over their lives. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for post-concussion syndrome, providing you with the information you need to better understand your condition and find relief.
The symptoms of post-concussion syndrome can vary greatly from person to person and may impact physical, cognitive, and emotional health.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms long after a concussion, it’s crucial to seek a specialized evaluation to identify the underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Determining the root causes of your symptoms can help shape an effective treatment approach.
Here are four primary areas that contribute to persistent post-concussion symptoms:
This refers to the disruption in the relationship between brain cells (neurons) and the blood vessels that supply them. Symptoms such as confusion, headaches, and dizziness may arise when this communication is impaired.
The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions like heart rate and blood pressure. After a concussion, this system can become unbalanced, leading to irregular heartbeats, changes in blood pressure, and difficulty regulating body temperature.
Your vestibular system, which helps control balance and spatial orientation, can be disrupted, resulting in dizziness, nausea, and a general sense of instability.
Vision issues are common following a concussion and can include blurred or double vision, difficulty reading, and light sensitivity. These disturbances often lead to headaches and difficulty concentrating.
At UOC, we understand how complex PCS can be. Our multidisciplinary team offers a range of specialized therapies to help patients recover and improve their quality of life. Here are some of the treatments available:
Physical therapy is crucial for patients experiencing balance issues or persistent neck pain. Our therapists focus on exercises that enhance flexibility, strength, and coordination while targeting vestibular sensitivity to reduce dizziness and improve stability.
This therapy aims to restore your body’s natural healing processes and optimize the interaction between muscles, joints, and nerves. Techniques include therapeutic massage and exercises to promote blood flow to the brain, reducing tension and enhancing mobility.
We use occupational therapy to address lingering vision and motor skill issues. Our sessions focus on strengthening visual perception and improving coordination through structured activities, ultimately enhancing cognitive function and daily performance.
Our sensory therapies engage multiple senses to challenge the brain’s ability to adapt and compensate. These therapies promote better communication between different brain regions, helping patients regain efficiency in everyday tasks.
Neuro-integration therapy focuses on reintegrating essential brain functions, such as balance and vision, into a cohesive system. By addressing individual systems that may be underperforming, we help patients restore functional independence and stability.
Cognitive rehabilitation helps improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills through advanced techniques, such as virtual reality. These exercises create interactive environments that mimic real-world scenarios, allowing patients to practice cognitive tasks in a safe setting.
For those experiencing balance and dizziness issues, vestibular rehabilitation offers specialized exercises to target the inner ear and brain pathways, reducing vertigo and enhancing balance.
CBT helps patients manage their thoughts and behaviors, especially those dealing with anxiety or mood changes. Through coping strategies and stress management techniques, CBT promotes better emotional control and overall mental health.
While therapy is often the most effective approach, certain symptoms may benefit from medications to make daily life more manageable. Medications can address sleep disturbances, mood instability, or other persistent symptoms under careful medical supervision.
Infusion therapy delivers essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, supporting cellular repair and cognitive function. Our IV therapy includes options like NAD+ and Myers’ cocktails, which promote healing and enhance brain function.
Living with post-concussion syndrome can be incredibly difficult, therefore choosing a team of qualified specialists who can provide the right treatment is of utmost importance. With the right support and targeted treatment, you can reclaim your quality of life and overcome the limitations of PCS. At University Orthopedic Care (UOC), our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. By understanding your unique symptoms and creating a personalized plan, we aim to help you achieve lasting relief and get back to doing the things you love.
To learn more about the concussion treatments we offer or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (866) 961-1744 or fill out our convenient online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
