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Concussions

Abbey Neurodynamic Center

Wellness Center located in Palo Alto, CA

Over 300,000 sports-related concussions happen each year in the United States and can be problematic if left untreated. If you experience symptoms of a concussion, such as headaches, memory impairment, or ringing in your ears, licensed clinical neuropsychologist Richard Abbey, PhD, and his team can help. At Abbey Neurodynamic Center in Palo Alto, California, they detect, diagnose, and treat concussions using advanced techniques and technology. Schedule an appointment over the phone to learn more.

Concussions Q & A

What are concussions?

Concussions, also known as traumatic brain injuries, affect the way your brain functions. They often result from a forceful blow to you head, or violent shaking of your head or upper body. You may experience a concussion from falling, hitting your head, a sports-related injury, or physical assault. Getting proper treatment is your best chance of making a full recovery.

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

The following signs and symptoms may indicate you have a concussion, which can range from mild to severe:

  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Slurred speech
  • Confusion, memory loss, or feeling in a fog
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Seeing stars, dizziness, or ringing in the ears
  • Irritability, depression, or personality changes
  • Memory or concentration problems
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Light or noise sensitivity

If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor right away for an evaluation and treatment to avoid lasting complications.

How are concussions diagnosed?

The Abbey Neurodynamic Center team reviews your medical history and asks you about your symptoms to diagnose a concussion. They check your hearing, vision, balance, strength, sensations, reflexes, and coordination. They also may perform a neuropsychological assessment.

Your provider also assesses memory, your ability to recall certain events, and concentration to determine the severity of your concussion. 

How are concussions treated?

The medical team at Abbey Neurodynamic Center treats concussions using a multi-modal approach that includes one or more of the following:

Rest

While you recover from a concussion, getting rest is crucial. Get plenty of sleep and avoid strenuous physical activity until your doctor give you the okay. Your practitioner might recommend you take time off from work or school, too.

Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback, or EEG biofeedback, is a method of training the brain to function in a healthier way. During your session, EEG sensors detect your brain’s electrical activity patterns while you pay attention and learn. Doing so help reshape your brain and develop new neural connections.

Vision training

Vision training uses vision therapy and rehabilitation to improve eye/brain coordination and reduce symptoms of a concussion.

Infrared light therapy

Infrared light therapy uses red light to enhance healing of traumatic brain injuries. The treatment is painless and noninvasive.

Cooled-compression cardio

The Abbey Neurodynamic Center team uses the Vasper™ system to combine compression, interval training, and liquid cooling to improve recovery and boost growth hormones in your body to optimize healing.

Cognitive skill-based training

Your provider works with you to complete cognitive skill-based training exercises to help your brain recover and relearn tasks while you heal from a traumatic brain injury.

To fully recover from a concussion as quickly as possible, take advantage of the state-of-the-art equipment and techniques Abbey Neurodynamic Center offers. Schedule an appointment over the phone today.