Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
Welcome To New York Sports Medicine Institute
Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A concussion is an injury to the brain caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that can change the way the brain normally functions. Most concussions occur during practice or games in any sport, as well as from a fall or a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth within the skull. Most concussions do not result in a loss of consciousness, and most people recover within a few days to weeks. Contact NYSMI a concussion specialist in westchester ny today!
However, concussions are complex injuries that can have both short- and long-term effects that can impair many aspects of a person’s health – physical, neurological, cognitive, and psychological. Each case of a suspected or known concussion should be evaluated by an experienced multidisciplinary team to effectively diagnose, treat, and manage the injury, and advise on when it is safe to return to playing or learning.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION?
You can’t see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of concussion can show up right after an injury, or may not appear or be noticed until hours or days after the injury.
It is important to watch for changes in how your child is acting or feeling, if symptoms are getting worse, or if he or she just “doesn’t feel right.” If your child or teen reports one or more of the symptoms of concussion listed below, or if you notice the symptoms yourself, seek the advice of a healthcare provider knowledgeable in concussion management.
Children and teens are among those at greatest risk for concussion.
DIAGNOSTIC AIDE WITH EYEBOX
Head injuries are a major source of concern since the presence and severity of a head injury may not be readily assessable, which is why the FDA approval of EyeBOX is a major breakthrough in the medical field. Available at our Westchester location, EyeBOX is revolutionizing concussion care.
More information about EyeBOX involves:
- The first FDA approved, a non-invasive, baseline-free tool to aid in the diagnosis of concussions.
- EyeBOX uses eye-tracking technology to provide objective information to aid in the assessment of patients with a suspected concussion.
- Is a simple, four-minute test.
OUR CONCUSSION SERVICES
NYSMI | Concussion Care is a Credentialed ImPACT® Consultant, offering both baseline and follow-up ImPACT® (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing); the most widely used and most scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation system.
CONCUSSION CARE SERVICES
- Baseline neurocognitive assessments of individuals and athletes using ImPACT® and other recognized tests. Coordinating pre-season screening of individual athletes and teams.
- Balance/vestibular testing and rehabilitation therapy.
- Comprehensive post-injury physical and neurocognitive assessment, including post-injury ImPACT® testing and appropriate subspecialty referrals as needed.
- Multi-disciplinary team to interface with families, schools, and athletic departments regarding accommodations needed during recovery.
- Educational and training workshops for parents, coaches, trainers, students, athletes, and school nurses.
At NYSMI | Concussion Care, we take a complete and individualized approach to patient care and thoroughly evaluate and treat patients after their injury to appropriately facilitate a return to sports, work and their daily routine.
Symptoms of a Concussion
Concussions are a serious injury to the head that is common in athletes. A brain injury is something that should be taken seriously and cared for. New York Sports Medicine Institute specializes in concussion treatment. If you are feeling symptoms of a concussion, concussion specialist in westchester ny will help you.
What is a Concussion?
Concussions are serious brain injuries stemming from hard blows and trauma to the head. It causes the brain to jolt and hit the side of the skill. The neurons in the brain become depolarized, which causes intense migraines. A severe concussion can change normal brain functions. Continuous concussions can cause serious brain damage and need to be treated immediately.
The brain is affected in many ways, such as:
- Stretched and Damages Nerves in the Brain
- Impairs Brain Chemicals Slowing Reaction Time and Thinking
- Changing Glucose is Metabolized
- Changes Enzymes and Proteins which Kills Brain Cells
For more information about concussions, click here.
Causes of a Concussion.
The causes of concussions are separated into two categories. They are sports-related and non-sports concussions. Both are very serious and can contribute to altering brain function. The concussion is still the same in both cases, but sports-related concussions can determine if continuing the sport is safe.
- Sports-related concussions come from a blow to the head, causing the brain to move. The most common sport to get a concussion is boxing and soccer. Colliding with another person’s head and getting punched in the face are most at risk of getting concussions. Football is also at high risk because of poor tackling techniques.
- Non-sport-related concussions can happen to anyone. Car accidents, accidental falls, and being in the military can cause concussions. It is common for children to get concussions from falling and being clumsy.
Risk of Concussions.
A serious brain injury is important to treat and prevent. Listen to concussion specialist in westchester ny professionals and take the proper care of your brain. Once the first concussion occurs it is important to limit the chances of a second concussion. Repetitive concussions increase long-term cognitive damage. If concussions tend to repeat for athletes, it may be necessary for the person to stop playing the sport for safety reasons.
Symptoms of Concussions.
You cannot see a concussion. It is easy to hide. Symptoms can show right after an injury or even days after. Children may be acting differently if they are experiencing symptoms after a hard fall. If you are feeling symptoms contact concussion specialist in westchester ny immediately. Symptoms Include:
- Painful Migraines
- Difficulty Thinking or Focusing
- Decrease in Coordination
- Pupils Become Dilated
- Feeling of Nausea
- Blurred Vision
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after taking a hit to the head, please contact us. It is important to treat concussions early to prevent future cognitive damage.
Treatment of Concussions.
Recovering from a concussion can take days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the concussion. It is important to stay consistent with recovery methods. A person with a concussion should avoid all physical activities until fully recovered. Over the counter, medicines can help relieve pain from headaches or migraines. Take a break from reading, writing, and other mentally challenging activities. It is also important to stay away from watching any screens such as tv, computers, cell phones, and iPhones.
How We Can Help You.
New York Sports Medicine Institute offers up-to-date treatment services for all concussion patients. EyeBOX is a new FDA-approved medical advancement for concussion treatments. ImPact concussion baseline tests are used for athletes and anyone who needs to be tested for a concussion.
Here’s what we do to help you:
- Balance and Vestibular Testing
- Comprehensive Testing
- Contacting schools, families, and athletic departments to accommodate you during recovery time
- Evaluating symptoms to appropriately approach the injury
At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we take concussion care seriously. Our trained professionals research and create tests and treatment plans specific to you and your injury.
Contact Our Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
If you are experiencing symptoms of a concussion contact the New York Sports Medicine Institute today. Concussions are a serious injury that needs the highest of care. We have the new technology that sets us apart. Concussion specialist in westchester ny wants to help you through your recovery journey.
Contact Our Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
How Long Does a Concussion Last?
The New York Sports Medicine Institute is a Credentialed ImPACT® Consultant, offering both baseline and follow-up ImPACT® (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing); the most comprehensive and validated tool for concussion evaluation and management.
We offer a variety of services for concussion patients that emphasize a proper diagnosis and accommodations needed throughout the recovery process. The New York Sports Medicine Institute is a trusted and respected concussion specialist in westchester ny as well as an expert on concussion management plans, recoveries, and services. Visit our website for more information on our locations and services.
Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion
When a concussion occurs, it is of the utmost importance to receive an accurate diagnosis. After a blow, bump or hit to the head, a concussion temporarily disrupts the way the brain functions. While in a concussed state, the brain is in a fragile position. The patient may experience decreased mental stamina and may experience difficulty performing what are typically simple tasks.
If you experience a concussion during a sporting event or game, it is important to seek medical attention. Do not resume play in the game, as further injury can be highly detrimental and cause lasting damage to the brain.
How Long Does A Concussion Last?
Roughly 80% of concussions resolve themselves in one to two weeks’ time, typically around ten days. If an athlete sustains a concussion, they should never return to play sooner than one week from the time that the injury was initially sustained. Proper rest and time to heal are essential for a complete recovery post-concussion.
Phases of Recovery:
Acute Phase:
The Acute phase post-concussion consists of the first one to two weeks after the initial injury. In this phase of recovery, rest is essential. It might benefit you to take time off from school or work, as these activities tend to require high levels of concentration, memory retention, and cognition. All of these functions are compromised when a concussion is experienced. Additionally, bright lights, loud music, television, and driving might best be avoided, as they too can put added stress on your brain’s functionality. In the acute phase of recovery, sleep and restfulness are to be accentuated.
If you want to remain active during this time period, going on short walks is a healthy alternative to more aggressive forms of exercise like weightlifting or higher intensity cardio. If you partake in these activities while in the acute phase of recovery, you run the risk of reinjuring your brain and suffering from something called second-impact syndrome. This occurs when the brain sustains a second injury soon after an initial concussion and can have permanent effects on your cognitive ability, resulting in mental deficits or even death.
Recovery Phase:
Once the initial symptoms of a concussion begin to fade, and the patient begins to reintegrate physical activities, school, or work into their routine, they enter the recovery phase. Previously, concussions were typically graded on a scale of severity ranging from Grade 0 (least severe) to Grade 4 (most severe); however, the American Academy of Neurology has moved away from this system and urges medical professionals to analyze concussions on an individual case-by-case basis. No two concussions are alike in that each individual may have varying symptoms, degrees of severity, or treatment plans needed for proper recovery.
Though someone you know may have only taken X amount of weeks or months to recover fully from their concussion, this does not mean that you can ascribe that as an appropriate benchmark to base your healing process on. It is especially important to be mindful of this in young patients who have experienced a concussion, as there are a tremendous amount of variables at play in a young, growing brain. For more information on concussion signs, symptoms, and recovery, click here.
Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
In conclusion, it is best practice to visit a trusted medical professional when in the process of diagnosing and healing from a concussion. The New York Sports Medicine Institute specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of concussions. If in search of a concussion specialist concussion specialist in westchester ny, visit our website to find a location near you and to schedule an appointment.
What Are The Long Term Effects of a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of brain injury that can occur after a blow to the head, leading to trauma and noticeable symptoms. Concussions are going to range from moderate to serious and they cause a variety of symptoms, including headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. If you’ve suffered a concussion, you should contact our concussion specialist in westchester ny. Dr. Neil Roth has been operating in the tri-state area for several years. He specializes in the treatment of sports injuries such as concussions. If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Roth or the rest of his staff at New York Sports Medicine Institute, please check out our bio pages for more information.
While most people who suffer a concussion recover within a few weeks with no lasting effects, some people may experience longer-term problems, such as difficulty with memory and concentration, mood changes, and sleep problems. This doesn’t happen often but concussions lead to more serious conditions, such as bleeding on the brain or permanent damage to the brain.
Should it be yourself or someone you know that may have suffered a concussion, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Testing can be done to determine the severity of the concussion and whether there are any lasting effects. Thanks to a clear diagnosis, a person who suffers a concussion can make a full recovery.
What is the most common cause of a concussion?
Typically, a direct strike to the head can often lead to the development of a concussion. Car accidents, falling and hitting your head, or any other type of collision is usual the culprit. A concussion can also occur if the head is suddenly and violently shaken, such as during an earthquake.
How are concussions treated?
Most concussions can be treated at home with rest and ice. Over-the-counter pain medications can be used to help relieve headaches. It is important to avoid activities that could put you at risk for another head injury, such as contact sports, during the recovery period. Physicians may suggest a course of physical therapy to help you regain your strength and coordination.
What are the long term effects of a concussion?
For most people, the long term effects of a concussion are mild and resolve within a few weeks. However, some people may experience persistent problems, such as difficulty with memory and concentration, mood changes, and sleep problems. An unlikely situation could include more serious conditions, such as bleeding on the brain or permanent damage to the brain. Should you feel the development of these ailments, it is important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With proper medical care, most people make a full recovery from a concussion.
What have we learned about concussions in recent years?
In recent years, there has been a greater focus on the long-term effects of concussions. While most people who suffer a concussion recover without any lasting effects, some people may experience persistent problems. Symptoms often differ in regards to range of severity and they significantly impact a person’s quality of life. If you have suffered a concussion, it is important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With proper medical care, most people make a full recovery from a concussion.
Are athletes at a greater risk of suffering a concussion?
Athletes are at a greater risk of suffering a concussion because they often participate in activities that involve contact with other people or objects. However, anyone can suffer a concussion, regardless of their level of activity. If you’ve been struck in the head and feel symptoms, it is important to see a certified physician to receive not only the care you need but also a clear diagnosis. With proper medical care, most people make a full recovery from a concussion.
Contact Our Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
Dr. Neil Roth is a concussion specialist in westchester ny that specializes in the treatment of concussions and other sports-related injuries. In addition to his work as a sports medicine specialist, he is also a board certified orthopedic surgeon that has experience performing multiple different surgeries. For scheduling an appointment, please visit our contact page today.
Side Effects From A Concussion
A concussion is a dangerous type of brain injury that causes the head to move back and forth. Concussions are not life-threatening but require a diagnosis and treatment, so there are no long-term effects. If you are looking for an concussion specialist in westchester ny who is qualified in concussion care, look no further than NYSMI.
Concussion Causes
Your brain tissue is soft and squishy and surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid acts as a cushion between your brain and the harder exterior, the skull. This makes the area particularly vulnerable when your brain bounces, twists, or shakes inside your skull.
An concussion specialist in westchester ny states that a concussion is caused when your brain moves unnaturally fast in your skull or when you experience whiplash-type back and forth movement.
One of the most common causes of concussions is participation in sports. It is even more common in contact sports such as football, ice hockey, wrestling, lacrosse, and soccer. Athletes who participate in these sports are more susceptible to concussions because of the contact and aggression between players during the game.
In children, most concussions are caused by:
- Injuries on the playground
- Bike riding
- Falling off a bed or chair
- Hits to the head
Motor vehicle accidents are also a leading cause of concussions, any concussion specialist in westchester ny at NYSMI would say. In car accidents, drivers can get violently thrown forward, causing the brain to move outside its comfort area and slam into the skull. This can occur if your head hits the steering wheel, window, or headrest, or even if your head doesn’t hit anything during the accident but is still whipped or thrust around.
Symptoms and Side Effects
When car accidents happen, concussion symptoms can immediately present themselves, or they could appear days or even weeks later. An concussion specialist in westchester ny says that there is not always bruising or broken skin on your head when you get a concussion, which is why it’s so important to pay attention to your body for any changes.
Other possible concussions side effects are:
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Light sensitivity
- Audio sensitivity
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness
- Lack of balance
- Memory loss
If you have recently experienced head trauma and are experiencing some of these symptoms, an concussion specialist in westchester ny advises you to visit NYSMI for a concussion assessment. Doctors will examine you, assess your symptoms, and perform tests to ensure there are no life-threatening injuries or other types of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Diagnosis
It’s important to see an concussion specialist in westchester ny or any other trained medical professional for concussion care as soon as you begin showing symptoms. In this visit, your doctor will ask you questions about your injury and may also perform a neurological examination. Your doctor will check your vision, hearing, balance, reflexes, and coordination in this examination.
Your doctor may also have you perform several cognitive tests to evaluate your memory, concentration, and ability to recall information. An example of this would be the doctor asking you to remember a string of words then repeat it back to them a few minutes later.
A qualified concussion specialist in westchester ny at NYSMI is also skilled in using EyeBOX. This non-invasive, baseline-free tool can detect dysfunction in the brain by tracking eye movements. This technology is revolutionary in diagnosing concussions in just four minutes.
After bad car accidents or other unique circumstances, doctors may keep you at a hospital for 24 hours to monitor you and ensure your condition does not drastically worsen.
Treatment: Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
In order to recover from a concussion, you need physical and mental rest. This includes not participating in regular sports or activities and getting more sleep than normal.
For your brain to heal after a concussion, you may also need to limit certain activities, so your injury doesn’t get worse. Some things you may want to limit while recovering from a concussion include:
- Spending excessive time on your smartphone
- Reading
- Watching television
- Playing video games
- Listening to loud music
As your symptoms begin to improve, you can slowly add more of your regular activities back into your day. If you have any questions about your recovery plan, an concussion specialist in westchester ny at NYSMI is qualified to help.
For athletes, the immediate post-concussions assessment and cognitive test (ImPACT) is a 30-minute test the athlete performs before returning to their sport. NYSMI offers this testing which measures the athlete’s visual and verbal memory, processing speed, and reaction time. The results from this test can assist with treatment plans and determine if it’s safe for someone to resume their sports or activities after a concussion.
Contact Us: Concussion Specialist in Westchester NY
You can’t see a concussion, which is why it’s so important to see a concussion specialist in westchester ny at NYSMI if you are experiencing any concussion symptoms. Our qualified professionals provide a thorough and individualized approach to patient care. You can make an appointment with us online today.