How We Treat Concussions
Our concussion rehabilitation approach.
Concussion rehabilitation is individualized based on your symptoms, clinical findings, activity demands, and goals.
Concussion Evaluation
Your therapist will review your symptoms and history and perform appropriate physical assessments based on your presentation. Assessment may include relevant areas such as:
- Balance
- Vestibular function
- Visual function
- Oculomotor function
- Cervical function
- Exercise tolerance
- Movement
- Functional activity tolerance
Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation may be appropriate for individuals experiencing dizziness, balance difficulties, motion sensitivity, or other vestibular-related symptoms.
Treatment may include individualized exercises designed to improve tolerance to movement and visual motion.
Learn about vestibular rehabilitation →
Visual & Oculomotor Rehabilitation
Some individuals experience visual symptoms or difficulty tolerating visual environments following concussion. Depending on your presentation, rehabilitation may incorporate exercises addressing:
- Eye movements
- Visual tracking
- Gaze stabilization
- Visual motion tolerance
- Coordination between vision and movement
Cervical Rehabilitation
Neck pain and cervical dysfunction can occur following concussion and may contribute to symptoms such as headache or discomfort with movement. When appropriate, treatment may address:
- Cervical mobility
- Strength
- Postural control
- Movement coordination
- Manual therapy
- Therapeutic exercise
Graded Exercise
Exercise progression can be an important component of concussion rehabilitation.
When clinically appropriate, your therapist may develop a gradual exercise progression based on your symptoms, exercise tolerance, and response to activity.
Balance & Neuromuscular Training
Rehabilitation may incorporate balance and movement training to address deficits identified during your evaluation.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about concussion rehabilitation.
01 / What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury that can temporarily affect how the brain functions. Symptoms can vary widely between individuals.
02 / Can physical therapy help concussion symptoms?
Physical therapy can address certain physical symptoms associated with concussion, including dizziness, balance difficulties, visual symptoms, exercise intolerance, and some neck-related symptoms.
03 / How long does concussion recovery take?
Recovery varies from person to person. Your rehabilitation plan should be based on your symptoms, clinical findings, response to activity, and progression.
04 / When should I start physical therapy after a concussion?
The appropriate timing depends on your individual presentation. Your healthcare team can help determine when evaluation and rehabilitation are appropriate.
05 / Can I exercise after a concussion?
Exercise recommendations depend on your symptoms and stage of recovery. When appropriate, a clinician can develop an individualized progression back to physical activity.
06 / When can I return to sports after a concussion?
Return to sport should be gradual and appropriately progressed based on your symptoms, clinical findings, physical tolerance, and the demands of your sport.
07 / Can you help with return to school or work?
Physical therapy can address physical symptoms and activity tolerance that may affect school or work participation. Coordination with other members of your healthcare team may be appropriate depending on your individual situation.
08 / Do I need a referral for concussion physical therapy in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts allows direct access to physical therapy in many circumstances, although insurance requirements can vary. Our team can help you understand what is needed before your evaluation.
Get Started
Ready to begin your concussion recovery?
You don’t have to navigate concussion recovery alone.
If symptoms are keeping you from school, work, exercise, sport, or the activities you enjoy, our concussion team can help you develop an individualized path forward.
Prefer to call?
(781) 874-9294
You’re all set.
A care coordinator will reach out within one business day. If you need to speak with us sooner, call us directly.