Clinical experience and contact sports have taught us many important lessons about the psychological and neurological affects of head trauma. Often there is no “physical” damage to the brain, as determined by CT scans, though in certain cases the individual will continue to have a host of symptoms. Why? Because who we are as people and what we do is heavily influenced by our brain’s activity patterns…and these electronic activity patterns can be altered by trauma. MRIs and CT scans do not measure activity – only brain mapping does. Unfortunately, until more recently, the sophistication of brain analysis has not matched the complexity of concussion and head trauma. This has changed, however, with advancements in brain mapping which, in combination with cognitive testing, can determine the extent of “functional” deficit and why this exists. Even more importantly, cognitive rehabilitation and neurofeedback can be used to recalibrate the brain back to baseline when natural recovery (from rest) after the concussion is not helping.
Concussion/Brain Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury – TBI/ Concussion/Brain Injury can cause a number of physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral effects, and the recovery outcomes can range from complete recovery to permanent disability or death. Some of the current imaging techniques used for diagnosis and treatment include CT scans computed tomography and MRIs magnetic resonance imaging. Advanced neuropsychological testing and brain mapping can be helpful after the acute recovery phase has passed to help with treatment planning. Depending on the injury, treatment required may be minimal or may include interventions such as medications, cognitive therapies, neurorehabilitation, and EEG neurofeedback. There are many therapy options that can also be used in conjunction to aid in recover.
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Post-concussion syndrome, which is also known as PCS, is a set of symptoms that may continue for weeks, months, or more after a concussion (a mild form of traumatic brain injury). The condition can cause a variety of symptoms including headache, difficulty concentrating, rapid fatigue after mental activity, and irritability. Many of the symptoms of PCS are common to, or exacerbated by, other disorders increasing the risk of misdiagnosis.
