Your Role in Concussion Recovery
Jeremy Vandehurst, MA, ATC
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that results from an impact to the head. While it usually isn’t life-threatening, a concussion can cause short-term and long-term problems.
Concussions affect everyone in the family or peer group. For most family members, life is not the same after a TBI; problems with school, focus, communication, and socialization are common. After the injury, there may be a great deal of stress, and each member of a family or peer group can take an active role in concussion recovery.
It’s important to get connected with a concussion care team as soon as trauma occurs. A treatment team not only helps with the physical and psychological elements of a concussion, but can provide guidance to the affected person’s support network to ensure the greatest chance for full recovery.
Building a Concussion Support Plan
Provide structure and normalcy.
- Create a routine to help the person feel secure in their environment.
- Allow frequent rest.
- Place objects within easy reach.
Provide support in a respectful way.
- Avoid overexpression of optimism like, “You will be alright.”
- Respect likes and dislikes regarding food, clothing, and entertainment.
Avoid overstimulation.
- Restrict the number of visitors.
- Use short sentences and simple words.
- Avoid crowded places.
Jeremy Vandehurst, MA, ATC, is a certified athletic trainer and concussion coordinator with Barton Health, offering concussion management, including therapies and rehabilitation for recovery. For loss of consciousness or emergencies requiring immediate medical attention, call 911. To seek recovery after a concussion, call your primary care provider or visit Barton Urgent Care at 155 US-50, Stateline, Nevada 89449.
