Preparing for Your First Concussion Therapy Session: What You Need to Know

Understanding Concussion Therapy

If you’ve recently sustained a concussion, you may be feeling overwhelmed by symptoms like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating. The good news is that specialized concussion therapy can help you recover safely and effectively. Your first appointment is an important step on the road to healing, and knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and help you get the most out of your care.

What is Concussion Therapy?

Concussion therapy is a personalized rehabilitation approach designed to address the wide range of symptoms that may follow a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). A physical therapist with advanced training in concussion management will evaluate your unique situation and design a treatment plan to help restore your function and quality of life.

What to Expect at Your First Session

Your first visit will focus on understanding your injury, your symptoms, and how they affect your daily life. Here’s what typically happens:

Comprehensive Evaluation: Your therapist will ask detailed questions about how the concussion happened, your current symptoms, and your medical history.
Symptom Assessment: Expect testing related to balance, eye movements, neck mobility, and tolerance for physical and cognitive activity.
Goal Setting: Together, you and your therapist will discuss what’s most important to you, whether that’s returning to work, school, sports, or simply feeling better in daily activities.
Treatment Plan: Based on the findings, your therapist will recommend a personalized care plan. This may include exercises, strategies to manage symptoms, and a gradual return-to-activity program.

Preparing for Your Session

A little preparation can go a long way in making your first session productive:

Bring Documentation: If you have any medical records, imaging reports, or physician notes related to your injury, bring them with you.
Write Down Your Symptoms: Keep a list of your symptoms, when they occur, and what seems to make them better or worse.
List Your Medications: Include any prescriptions or over-the-counter medications you’re currently taking.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: You may be asked to move around for balance and mobility testing, so dress in clothes and shoes that are easy to move in.
Bring Questions: Write down any concerns or goals you’d like to discuss with your therapist.

Common Questions New Patients Ask

“How long will recovery take?”
Every concussion is different. Your therapist will reassess your progress regularly and adjust your plan as needed.

“Will therapy make my symptoms worse?”
Some exercises may temporarily bring on mild symptoms, but this is often a normal part of retraining your brain and body. Your therapist will guide you carefully to ensure safety.

“Can I still work or go to school?”
Your therapist can provide strategies for returning to work or school in a way that supports recovery, often with temporary modifications.

After the Session: Next Steps

Once the session is over, your therapist will provide guidance on the steps you need to take at home. This may include specific exercises, rest recommendations, or dietary suggestions. It's important to follow these instructions closely to maximize recovery.

Keeping a journal to track your progress between sessions can be beneficial. Note any changes in symptoms, improvements, or new challenges. This record will be valuable during follow-up sessions, as it provides insight into how well the treatment is working and whether any adjustments are needed.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your first concussion therapy session doesn’t need to be stressful. By bringing the right information, wearing comfortable clothing, and coming in with questions, you’ll set yourself up for success. Remember: recovery is a process, and your therapy team is here to support you every step of the way.