Today there may be more awareness than in the past related to the potential dangers of concussions, particularly in terms of athletes. Yet people often do not understand the need for extensive testing following a concussion. They don’t know what this type of testing involves, or where or how to obtain a proper evaluation.
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury, and even in the mildest cases, it involves disruption of normal brain function. Although most of the time, concussions are mild, suboptimal brain function can prove quite problematic in the short term or over time. A concussion that is never properly evaluated may put the individual at risk for ongoing problems. This may include symptoms that affect cognitive and motor function as well as a greater risk for developing serious health conditions in the future, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
A mild traumatic brain injury can cause a variety of symptoms including headache, trouble sleeping, difficulty with concentration, issues with balance or coordination, or emotional instability. Reaction time and spatial orientation may be affected, and so can other types of motor function. The only way to understand exactly what is going on with the brain and body following a concussion is through comprehensive testing. The right practitioner can evaluate function in great detail, identifying very precise areas of the brain that require rehabilitation in order for symptoms to be relieved long term.
A functional neurologist who is experienced in helping patients with concussion recovery can determine exactly which areas of the brain and which brain-body connections have been altered or destroyed due to injury. The type of testing utilized by functional neurologists is highly specific as well as comprehensive. Comprehensive testing yields results that can be used to develop a customized care plan for therapeutic support that is uniquely suited for an individual’s needs.
Functional neurology utilizes cutting-edge science and technologies to evaluate function post-concussion. There is no guesswork involved in this type of testing or care. Therapies are safe, natural and non-invasive. There are no side effects or health risks involved, results are measurable, and progress is carefully monitored. The goal is to help the individual recover as fully and efficiently as possible. Symptoms aren’t masked; they are alleviated as the result of functional improvements and gains.
Emergency medical care at the time of traumatic brain injury may involve testing that’s designed to uncover serious complications and health risks that are occurring. Beyond this crucial initial support, functional neurology focuses on recovery and healing in the fullest possible way. Comprehensive testing and evaluation are the first step in this process. If you’d prefer to take a proactive approach to concussion care, one that focuses on long term solutions, consider working with a functional neurologist to obtain a comprehensive evaluation.