What You Need to Know About Concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that disrupts normal brain function. While the effects are typically temporary, they can lead to symptoms such as headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and problems with balance and coordination. Concussions are most often caused by a blow to the head, but can also result from violent shaking of the head and upper body.

Symptoms of Concussion:

• Headache: The most common symptom experienced.
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion or disorientation
• Temporary loss of consciousness
• Balance problems, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Visual disturbances, such as double or blurry vision
• Ringing in the ears
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Changes in sleep patterns, including sleeping more or less than usual
• Cognitive issues, including trouble concentrating and memory loss
• Emotional changes, such as depression, irritability, anxiety, or a general feeling of being "off" or in a "fog"

Symptoms of Concussion in Toddlers:

• Bumps or bruises on the head
• Vomiting
• Increased irritability or crankiness
• Refusal to eat or nurse
• Unusual sleep patterns, such as excessive sleepiness
• Increased fussiness or inconsolable crying
• A blank stare or lack of responsiveness

Causes of Concussion:

• Falls: Common in children and older adults
• Contact sports: Increased risk, especially without proper safety gear or supervision
• Accidents: Car, motorcycle, bicycle, and other incidents causing head trauma
• Physical abuse: Being hit or struck with an object
• Previous concussions: A history of concussions can increase vulnerability

The Role of Physical Therapy in Recovery:

Physical therapists play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process following a concussion. They can assist in:

• Managing neck and upper back pain associated with the injury
• Addressing dizziness and balance problems through targeted exercises
• Providing early treatment for visual system dysfunctions that may arise from the concussion

If you or a loved one has suffered a concussion, seeking help from a physical therapist can be an essential step in recovery, helping to restore function and ensure a safe return to daily activities.

At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!

Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021  Tel. (516) 829.0030

Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735   Tel. (516) 420.2900

Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797   Tel. (516) 367.1111

Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729   Tel. (631) 243.0247

North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11005  Tel. (516) 344.0030

Bayside - Aquatic Therapy: 208-32 Cross Island Pkwy., Bayside, NY11360  Tel. (718) 224.8480

Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572  Tel. (516) 992.2282

New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580.0125

Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Highway Bay Shore NY, 11706 Tel:(631)-446.1480

Amityville: 565 Albany Ave Amityville NY, 11701 Tel:(631)-532.0906

 In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): Tel: (516) 829.0030 

*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan*

Sources: Resource 1  Resource 2   Resource 3

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy 

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.