Episode 4: You’re not Crazy! Concussion Treatment with Matt Campbell of the Midwest Concussion Clinic
In today’s episode we go deep into the world of all things concussion. Concussions are one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries but because imaging can’t “prove” that there is damage, it can turn into one of the most lonely. Good news is, YOU’RE NOT CRAZY! What you’re feeling is real. And it can be treated! It’s not normal to wake up feeling dizzy, foggy, in pain, and off balance every day. Join us today as we talk with Matt Campbell, clinical director at the Midwest Concussion Clinic. Matt provides hope and in-depth knowledge on concussions, PCS, and its treatment. There is an end in sight!
In today’s episode, we cover:
Concussions: the treatment has changed over the last 18 months--hint, it’s done a 180!
Sit and rest in dark rooms for 2 weeks leads to a longer recovery and is a disservice to your recovery
Symptoms of a concussion: headache, dizziness, fogginess, balance issues
Concussions need evaluation by a concussion specialist
Components of a concussion evaluation
SACT 5, golden standard for immediate diagnosis
VOMS assessment, tells them the most
Modified Clinical Balance Test
Treatment for concussions
Psychological effects of concussions
How return to activity decisions are made
The insurance aspects of getting care through an athletic trainer: the concussion specialist
Worker’s Comp and concussion treatment
Early treatment is crucial
PCS: Post Concussion Syndrome or Persistent Concussion Symptoms?
20% of concussions have prolonged symptoms
Who’s most at risk: females 18-34 y/o likely due to hormone shifts with females’ cycles
Research on concussions
Treatment of PCS
Relies on the underlying cause
5 main causes of PCS: decreased blood flow to the brain, soft tissue injury to the cervical spine, vestibular-ocular relationship (visual therapy), inflammation, psychological aspects
You’re not crazy!! What you’re feeling is real.
Helmets: skull fracture protection not concussion protection
Modifications to make to live with concussion and PCS
Brain injuries are the ultimate lesson in learning how to listen to your brain
The healthcare system in general may gas-light concussions. There is hope!! There is treatment! Caring practitioners who will help you are out there!!
Integrated approaches and other treatments for PCS: PRTMS, neuropsych testing, neurology, vestibular therapy
To find Matt Campbell or to ask any questions, reach out on:
Quotable quotes:
"Concussion treatment has changed...The goal of concussion treatment is to get back to activity as quickly and safely as possible."
"The definition of post concussive syndrome is changing to persistent concussion symptoms. PCS is not something separate from a concussion and its prolonged symptoms. The definition for PCS is symptoms that are lasting longer than 2 weeks in adults and 30 days in adolescents. 80% of the time the brain heals itself. 20% of cases have prolonged symptoms."
"You’re not crazy!! What you’re feeling is real. And it can be treated!"
"Work with your brain, not against it. Your brain will always win."
"Don’t suffer in silence. It’s not normal to wake up feeling bad after a concussion. There is help!"