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ER doctor examines dazed injured soccer player

Concussion Management

Learn more about prevention, warning signs and treatments for concussions.

Make an appointment with us today

(920) 831-5050

ThedaCare Orthopedic Care sports medicine physicians are concussion specialists. We’re ImPACT credentialed and can work closely with neuropsychologists when individuals need comprehensive neuropsychological testing.

We offer:

  • Baseline ImPACT testing for local or community youth athletic groups
  • Licensed athletic trainers in our clinic and throughout local high schools
  • Concussion education programs
  • Vestibular therapy
  • Return-to-sport recommendations
  • Exertional testing and assistance with return-to-play progression for athletes who do not have health care

What is a Concussion?

Recognizing a concussion is paramount to ensuring appropriate treatment. Remember: When in doubt, sit them out!

A concussion falls under the umbrella diagnosis of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI). It is a traumatically induced, transient disturbance in brain function. The disturbance can present with varying levels of severity and can result in a variety of symptoms.

The onset of symptoms is often rapid, although some athletes may develop symptoms several hours after the injury. It’s important to note that acute concussion symptoms are related to altered brain function and not to structural damage to the brain. Loss of consciousness is relatively rare and only occurs in 10% of cases.

Concussion Signs and Symptoms

Cognitive

  • Difficulty thinking clearly
  • Feeling slowed down
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Difficulty remembering

Physical

  • Headache
  • Blurry vision
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Sensitivity to light and/or noise
  • Feeling tired or lacking energy

Emotional

  • Irritability
  • Sadness
  • Nervousness
  • Anxiety

Sleep

  • Sleeping more than usual
  • Sleeping less than usual
  • Trouble falling/staying asleep

With appropriate rest and activity modification, most people with a concussion will recover on their own over a few weeks.

The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) maintains comprehensive policies and procedures for head injuries and concussion. Learn more about concussion symptoms and protocols.