Balance and Vestibular Program
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Overview
A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury (TBI), usually occurring after a blow to the head from an accident, such as a car crash, a fall or a sports injury.
In addition to headache and dizziness, post-concussion symptoms may also include:
- fatigue
- irritability
- anxiety
- insomnia
- loss of concentration and memory
- noise and light sensitivity
Post-concussion syndrome is typically diagnosed when these symptoms persist for greater than 3 months after the injury, though the criteria for diagnosing the syndrome vary.
How Boston Children's Hospital approaches post-concussion syndrome
Post-concussion syndrome is diagnosed by a series of criteria based on a child’s symptoms, the relationship of their symptoms to the specific traumatic event and by the exclusion of other medical causes of their symptoms.
Many tests may be needed to rule out other causes of dizziness and headache before your child is diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome. These tests may include vestibular and balance tests, which can be done right here at the Balance Program, as well as imaging tests, such as an MRI.
There is no specific treatment or cure for post-concussion syndrome. although many children may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy that can be implemented by a psychologist.
Children with persistent dizziness or imbalance from concussion may require vestibular rehabilitation, which is supervised by a specially-trained clinician (e.g. physical therapist) and involves exercises that are designed to help "retrain" the balance system.
