A slip on the ice. A tackle in football. A car accident. Concussions can occur anytime the head receives a bump, blow or jolt that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. Concussions are serious and need to be adequately assessed by a medical professional.

Someone who shows or reports one or more of the following symptoms, or simply says they just “don’t feel right” may have a concussion or more serious brain injury.

Concussion Signs Observed

• Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall.
• Appears dazed or stunned.
• Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position, or is unsure of the game, score, or opponent.
• Moves clumsily.
• Answers questions slowly.
• Loses consciousness (even briefly).
• Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes.

Concussion Symptoms Reported

• Headache or “pressure” in head.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision.
• Bothered by light or noise.
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.
• Confusion, or concentration or memory problems.
• Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down”.

Signs usually start to show soon after an injury. However, it may be difficult to know how serious the injury is at first and some symptoms may not show for hours or days.

Riverside Healthcare offers a comprehensive approach to assessment, treatment and recovery. A collaborative effort by Riverside’s Neurosciences Institute, Orthopedic Specialists, Athletic Trainers and Rehabilitation Services, the center is the only in the region with a fellowship-trained head-injury specialist, Ekua Gilbert-Baffoe, MD. This level of access works to get patients recovered quickly.

Riverside is also the only facility in the area that features the Biodex assessment system. This instrument helps provide a baseline and post-injury evaluation to help track recovery. This information is vital in helping clinicians create a therapy program.

To get a baseline assessment for athletes, call (815) 802-7090 or to find out more about the conditions treated at the Riverside Orthopedic and Spine Center visit riversidehealthcare.org.