Concussion Specialist

SportsSafe

Pediatric Concussion Clinics located in Austin, TX

A concussion is a potentially serious injury that can occur because of an impact to the head or body. Children with this condition need prompt treatment and ongoing monitoring to ensure proper healing. The experienced professionals at SportsSafe offer diagnostic services and treatment options for patients with the symptoms of a concussion. Parents in the Austin, Texas area, can make an appointment by contacting SportsSafe today.

512-814-1616

Concussion

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that changes the way the brain functions. Concussions can vary in severity, with some patients experiencing minor symptoms and others developing chronic disabilities.

What causes a concussion?

A concussion occurs when a patient’s brain moves rapidly in the skull. This can happen after a hit to the head or a hit to the body that causes head movement. The injury damages cells in the brain and in rare cases can cause bleeding inside the brain.

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

Some of the symptoms of a concussion may include:

Headache or pressure in the head
Confusion
Nausea and vomiting
Ringing in the ears
Vision changes
Light or noise sensitivity
Dizziness or balance difficulties
Temporary loss of consciousness
Fatigue or sleep disturbances
Fogginess
Trouble concentrating or memory loss
Emotional changes

How does SportsSafe diagnose a concussion?

When a patient comes in with a possible concussion, the SportsSafe providers will perform a complete neurologic exam. Additionally, they will gather a detailed history and order any necessary tests to determine whether the patient has a concussive injury.

In most cases, this appointment takes 60-90 minutes to complete.

What treatments are available?

Rest is often the best treatment for a concussion. While the brain heals, the child won’t be able to play sports or participate in any other activity that poses a risk of another injury. Depending on the severity of the condition, children may even need to stay home from school or have shortened school days temporarily. As the concussion heals, children can increase their activity level.

How long does it take to heal from a concussion?

Most children will recover from a concussion completely within 2-4 weeks. However, some children may recover more quickly, while others may need more time to return to normal. SportsSafe will release a child to return to sports and other restricted activities after the child has a normal neurologic exam, a normal neurocognitive exam, and has been free of concussion symptoms for at least 48 hours. Surprisingly, younger children take longer to recover from a concussion than older adolescents and adults.

Do all patients recover?

Most children with a concussion will recover. However, some patients continue to experience symptoms for more than 3 months. This is known as “post-concussive syndrome.” This may last a prolonged amount of time and often requires multidisciplinary care from different specialists.

Testimonials

Words from our patients

"Emily and her staff were top notch, professional and thorough... This is a place you can trust your children are receiving the best care possible for healing"

Heidi H.
"We are thankful for Sports Safe's expertise and caring attitude"

Lynore S.
"Professional, patient, kind, thorough. Highly recommend them to anyone who finds themselves in the unfortunate situation of concussion"

Anne W.
"The staff is incredible and very well-received by all the kids I saw there... I've been recommending them to everyone in the football team. Keep the fantastic work!"

Rocky B.
"The physical was relaxed & efficient, yet thorough. We left the appointment feeling more knowledgeable about concussions and what to look out for. Definitely recommend!"

Erin G.
"Wow, the nurse practitioner was fantastic. Expert, kind care by someone who has been an athlete in the same sport made us feel totally understood and care for"

Jessica T.
"SportsSafe is amazing... Thank you to everyone at SportsSafe! I'll make sure we let Coach H. know that all his athletes with concussions should go to SportsSafe!"

Lindsay L.
" Thorough exam. Great customer service. Peace of mind obtained through the sway and computerized test. "

Karla G.
"My son and I left our visit feeling like we knew so much more about his concussion, what it meant, and what was necessary to help the healing process."

Trinda F.
"The staff is optimistic and supportive to the whole person. Giving positive feedback about how to handle their injury and what the future has in store."

Taryn M.
"I cannot imagine dealing with the healing process along with all the missed school each time without these wonderful ladies. They have truly been a blessing!"

Shannon S.
"Thank goodness for SportsSafe. Able to get an appt within a day, seen on time, very thorough exam and testing."

Karla G.
"I highly recommend Meredith and the clinic to anyone facing the challenges of recovering from a concussion. Professional, prompt, personable, and impressive."

Dani G.