Fighting Concussions Head On

Publish Date: 4/30/2015

Fighting Concussions Head On

A concussion is an injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts the function of the brain. It can cause irreparable damage to anyone – changing a life forever. Washington University now has a specialized clinic for evaluation and treatment of concussions.

Maurizio Corbetta, MD, Washington University neurologist says, “Signs that the function of the brain has been disrupted include loss of consciousness, gaps in memory, confusion or disorientation, problems with balance or coordination, headaches, and changes in vision or hearing, among others. Many people make a full recovery from concussions usually within seven days, but others do not.”

The Washington University Concussion Clinic offers a comprehensive evaluation for adults who have not fully recovered from a concussion; and for those who have had a concussion and have questions regarding returning to sports, work or school.\

Because time is of the essence, it is important to see a concussion specialist as soon as possible after the injury. The concussion clinic evaluation includes:
•Physical examination by one of our physicians
•Mild to moderate exercise with our physical therapists (to see if symptoms come on with exertion)
•Balance testing
•Cognition and memory testing by our neuropsychologists (on a case-by-case basis)

In order to prevent permanent brain damage, rest and proper treatment is vital for someone recovering from a concussion.

For more information or to make an appointment with the Washington University Concussion Clinic, please call (314) 362-4503. Patients are seen at the Center for Advanced Medicine, 4921 Parkview Place, 6th floor, Suite C.



Source: https://wuphysicians.wustl.edu/your-health-update-newsletter/post/3617/fighting-concussions-head-on