Concussion and Vestibular disorders

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury — and if left untreated, it can result in serious, sometimes permanent, damage. Concussions can be caused by a blow to the head or a sudden acceleration/deceleration event.  Symptoms can begin immediately or after a few days and can include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Unusual sensitivity to light or noise
• Vision changes
• Difficulty concentrating, feeling “in a fog”
• Neck pain

Vestibular disorders are conditions or injuries that damage the vestibular system —the parts of the inner ear and brain that help control balance and eye movements. Many of these symptoms mirror those of a concussion.

Our highly trained physical therapists provide vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), an exercise-based program that reduces symptoms of a concussion or vestibular disorder that may include:

• Head re-positioning techniques to reduce or eliminate vertigo
• Ocular motor retraining
• Balance activities
• Habituation exercises

Even if you have undergone other treatments for an inner ear problem with little or no success, VRT may help. VRT is also beneficial for abrupt loss of vestibular function following surgery or an injury.

Learn more about Rochester Regional’s Concussion Program.