CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT

Concussion Management with our Licensed Physical Therapist Richard O’Quinn

Overview
Concussion management is a specialized area of physical therapy focused on the evaluation and treatment of mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI). Early and targeted intervention by a trained physical therapist can significantly reduce symptoms, accelerate recovery, and safely guide patients back to daily activities, work, school, or sport.

Specialized Expertise
Our physical therapist is clinically certified in concussion rehabilitation and trained in evidence-based protocols to assess and treat the complex effects of concussion. This advanced training includes post-concussive symptom management, vestibular and oculomotor therapy, cervical spine rehabilitation, and return-to-activity planning.

Symptoms We Address
Concussions can lead to a wide range of symptoms, often affecting multiple systems. We treat patients experiencing:

  • Headaches and neck pain

  • Dizziness or imbalance (vertigo)

  • Visual tracking or focus issues

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

  • Cognitive fog, slowed processing, or difficulty concentrating

  • Fatigue and disrupted sleep

Comprehensive Evaluation
Each patient receives a detailed, multi-system evaluation, which may include:

  • Comprehensive vestibular and balance testing

  • Oculomotor evaluation (eye movements, visual tracking)

  • Cervical spine assessment

  • Gait analysis and exertion testing (Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test)

  • Cognitive screening (if indicated)

Individualized Treatment Plans
Our approach to concussion management is personalized and progressive, including:

  • Vestibular Rehabilitation: Exercises to retrain the brain and inner ear systems to reduce dizziness and improve balance.

  • Oculomotor Therapy: Targeted interventions to improve visual coordination, tracking, and eye-head movement integration.

  • Cervical Manual Therapy: Addressing post-traumatic neck dysfunction that may contribute to persistent headaches and dizziness.

  • Exertional Tolerance Training: Controlled aerobic activity to safely reintegrate physical exertion under clinical supervision.

  • Return-to-Play/Work Protocols: Stepwise guidance based on symptoms, recovery benchmarks, and functional readiness.

Why Early Concussion Care Matters
Delaying care or relying solely on rest can prolong recovery. Early, guided rehabilitation helps prevent persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS), supports brain healing, and empowers patients with education and structured progression back to normal function.