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Concussion Managementin Corpus Christi

Headaches are one of the most common reasons that people see their primary care physician and they account for 20% of outpatient visits to neurologists.

People with chronic (or persistent) headaches report disabling symptoms that interfere with daily activities. Multiple concussions only increase these risks. And with so much conflicting data available on the internet, it can be tough to know how to manage a concussion should you suffer from one.

According to Blue Cross Blue Shield’s 2016 Health of America Report on concussions, the incidence of concussions among adolescents between the ages of 10-19 rose a staggering 71 percent between 2010 and 2015. For girls, the incidence spiked 119 percent during that time, though almost twice as many concussions were diagnosed in boys. Sports related concussions in adolescents account for 30% of concussions. The other 70% are a result of falls, traffic accidents, or being struck or hit.

How Can I Tell if I Have a Concussion?

One of the challenges of diagnosing concussions is that symptoms can occur at different times. For some people, they appear instantly, but for others it can be hours or even days.

Symptoms also vary from person to person. There are a number of signs and symptoms to be aware of, including the following:

  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Vertigo, the sensation of spinning
  • Nausea
  • Impaired postural control
  • Vomiting
  • Reduced Focus
  • Fatigue

I Know I Have a Concussion. How Do I Manage It?

Though there has been an increase in awareness in recent years, 80% of Americans don’t know concussions are treatable, or the proper steps to follow after an injury is sustained.

In years past, rest, minimal exposure to light and sound, and limited physical exertion were recommended. But, did you know those guidelines were set as a result of a study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery in 1968?

Today, the guidelines, based off a April 2017 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, are totally different:

  • No bed rest or prolonged rest – return to gradual and progressive activity are encouraged.
  • Reading, texting, and screen time are allowed.
  • Return to school and cognitive challenges is encouraged.
  • ImPACT Testing is not predictive of return to sport or normal activity.

Why Are Our Concussion Experts the Best Choice?

We’re up on the research! This person should be prepared to treat more than the visible signs and symptoms, like headache or neck pain… you need someone that’s also prepared to evaluate the emotional, vestibular, visual, cognitive, and exertion aspects. There are many medical trainees who have not been properly educated on the identification and management of concussions.

Our expert Sports Certified Specialists, physical therapists, and athletic trainers are trusted by the area’s top neurologists to provide concussion management services. We use evidence-based training and the most up-to-date research to provide cutting-edge treatment and ease your worry.

The Shea PT Difference

Specialty-Level Care

Target your discomfort at the source with a customized treatment plan.

More Board Certified Experts

Experience high-quality care from a team you can trust.

1:1 Personalized Treatments

Develop a custom treatment plan with our team of physical therapists.

Corpus Christi Location

Southside/Central

5440 Everhart
Suite 1
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • A physical therapy visit lasts about 40-60 minutes. The actual contents of the visit vary based on your diagnosis/need, but typically what happens is:

    1. You check in with the receptionist, make any appointments necessary, and we discuss your health insurance benefits with you.
    2. You go into the gym. You can change clothes if you need to, then begin therapy.
    3. You perform 6-8 various exercises and stretches. These can include therapeutic band exercises, light body weight exercises, or minimal weights. The stretches will promote strength, stability, improved range of motion, and pain relief.
    4. We can initiate other techniques to include manual work, taping, cupping, and dry needling as needed.
    5. The therapist makes recommendations based on your progress. These can include altering the frequency of visits, making additions/alterations to your home exercise plan, or things to do before your next visit.
  • If we are asking you to do something that is hurting too much, let us know! Physical therapy should not be severely painful. It is not common to be so sore that patients are in pain or it affects their daily life. If this ever happens during or after an appointment, let us know and we will adapt your program.

  • A typical order for physical therapy will ask for 2-3 visits per week for 4-6 weeks. Sometimes the order will specify something different. What generally happens is for the first 2-3 weeks, we recommend 3x per week. This is because it will be the most intensive portion of your treatment. After that, it is common to taper to 2x weekly, based on your level of function and progress.

  • During your initial evaluation, your therapist may ask you a number of questions to determine what the cause of your pain is. This can include questions about your sleep habits, activity level, and work environment. They will also ask for a medical history, and then typically ask direct questions about where and when you experience pain.

Have more questions? Contact Us

People in Corpus Christi Trust Shea PT

Hear from some of our 960+ Reviews

Thank you for the excellent rehab experience yet again!

Your front office always had ladies at the window: friendly and willing to stop what they were doing to help when someone walked up.

My therapist Joyce and Diane were wonderful, easy to work with, and helpful if I had questions. With their watchful eye, concerned interest, and guidance I was able to achieve my goals. I proudly wear my graduation t-shirt that Joyce gave me on the inside track at Corpus Christi Athletic Club as I continue my own exercises.

5 stars

B.L.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

I recently had therapy sessions for my shoulder at your facility. Not only is your staff extremely knowledgeable regarding all aspects of therapeutic treatment but also maintains a cheerful and positive atmosphere while teaching patients the exercises that benefit them. It is good to see professionals consider the whole person who is being treated. Congratulations to you and your staff.

5 stars

H.R.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

I have reached the end of my therapy and want to show my appreciation to your staff. They are a great group of people. I have been to other places for physical therapy but your people have shown a personal side to the people they work with. They make you feel like a friend or family member and show a personal interest in your recovery. I would highly recommend Shea Physical Therapy to anyone needing physical therapy. Thanks again! Keep up the good work!

5 stars

J.K.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

I came in a little more than three weeks ago because I could not move my shoulder at the direction of Dr. Barenstein. Then about 2 weeks ago I had my shoulder "manipulated", all through this painful ordeal Ria and Thomas were my physical therapists. These two did an absolutely marvelous job, so good in fact that they worked themselves out of a job in just 10 days after the manipulation by helping me regain almost all of the mobility and teaching me the exercises that I need to do!

5 stars

J.M.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

Just a little note of gratitude for the care I received at your facility. My experience was just as rewarding and beneficial as the first time (approximately 30 years ago). I can't thank you enough, beginning with the ladies at the front desk, Hilda & Lucy and you, Dan.

5 stars

M.N.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

Thank you for everything you have done for me. Sorry for being so much trouble. You all are amazing. I thank God for placing me with such caring, loving people.

5 stars

M.R.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

For those of you who waited, worked, tolerated and had patience with me, thank you and bless all of you. This is one of those times when saying "Thank You" does not seem like enough.

Office staff, therapy professionals, technicians - so much appreciation, and gratitude for all of you.

5 stars

N.I.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

My doctor insisted that I come to Shea Physical Therapy and now I understand why. My wife's massage therapist says you are the best. If all your therapists are the same caliber as Diane, I can understand why you have the reputation as "the best in South Texas". Thanks for offering such an outstanding service.

5 stars

P.A.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

I can't thank you enough for taking the time and risk to see me even as we all struggled to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. I am pleased to report you the success of your efforts as I am relatively PAIN FREE these days. I remained skeptical of the treatment outcome in the middle of August. However, I continued the prescribed physical therapy regimen and precisely as predicted, six to seven weeks later I am practically PAIN FREE! Still recovering but 100% improved - THANKS to you! My sincerest appreciation for your time and efforts,

5 stars

R.K.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient

I want to thank Shea Therapy for all the care you have given me on my road to recovery. Your expertise and professionalism is impressive! I want to especially thank those who worked directly with me. Thank you Lucy and Hilda for always putting me in my favorite room. Thank you Diane, my direct PT, along with Shana, PTA and Alex. Thank you ladies in the front office who were always so cheery and helpful.

5 stars

T.K.

Shea Physical Therapy Patient
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