Post-Concussion Syndrome
Persistent symptoms following concussion can significantly impact daily life. Find out about PCD (Post-Concussion Syndrome) and how our vestibular physiotherapists can help.
What is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Concussion is a mild traumatic brain-injury that occurs after a blow to the head, such as during sport, a car accident or a fall. Post-concussion syndrome is a condition characterised by ongoing symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue and balance impairment that persist for an extended period of time after the head injury. In some patients, symptoms can restrict a person’s quality of life and can persist for weeks, months and even years.
What causes Post-Concussion Syndrome?
In around 90% of adult concussions, symptoms will completely resolve within 10-14 days following the injury. Post-concussion syndrome occurs when symptoms persist beyond this time. It is not always fully understood why some patients will go on to develop post-concussion syndrome. It may be due to the severity of the head injury, due to repeated concussions or in some cases may be due to inadequate recovery during the initial post-concussion phase.
What are the symptoms of Post-Concussion Syndrome?
The symptoms of post-concussion syndrome vary significantly between patients. Common persistent symptoms include headache, dizziness, fatigue, blurred or double vision, sensitivity to noise or light, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), impaired balance, reduced concentration and thinking speed, irritability, anxiety and depression. These symptoms can severely affect a person’s ability to participate in work or education, as well as affect a person’s social and emotional wellbeing.
How is post-concussion syndrome diagnosed?
Post-concussion syndrome is a diagnosis usually made based on a patient’s history. With “mild” traumatic brain injuries such as concussion, there are usually no abnormal findings on routine scans of the head, as the chemical and structural damage that has occurred within the brain is not obvious on MRI or CT scans. Some more advanced forms of scans such as fMRI, PET and SPECT may demonstrate some abnormal findings but these are usually not required for a diagnosis.
How is Post-Concussion Syndrome treated?
Treatment in the early phase after a concussion typically involves initial rest from, followed by a gradual return to physical and mental activities. After this early phase, or if a patient is presenting for treatment further down the track, a comprehensive assessment is performed and treatment depends on the clinical findings. Common treatments involve a graduated program of head and eye movement exercises, physical exercise, cervical spine (neck) rehabilitation and specific mental processing tasks.
Our vestibular physiotherapist Justin has undergone further training specifically in post-concussion syndrome and has helped many patients with their persistent symptoms.
If you would like to ask a question about our post-concussion syndrome or anything else, visit our Contact Us page to get in touch.
If you are ready to make an appointment, visit our make a booking page and let us help you with your recovery.
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If you would like to ask a question about our services or anything else, visit our Contact Us page to get in touch.
If you are ready to make an appointment, visit our make a booking page and let us help you with your fitness or recovery.