Concussions: A Common Injury
Concussions are common injuries in the general population, and it has been estimated that between 1.7 and 3 million concussions each year in sports and recreation alone. In recent decades, neuropsychologists have led scientific and clinical efforts to better understand this injury in both children and adults, with efforts aimed at identifying concussion symptoms, understanding factors that influence recovery time, and providing guidance to patients throughout the return to school, work, and sports process.

How Neuropsychologists Make a Difference
Neuropsychologists play a critical role in concussion care with their expertise in understanding the brain and behavior. They are uniquely equipped to assess and manage concussions using a variety of tests and techniques to evaluate the extent of the injury and its impact on daily functioning. This includes neuropsychological testing, among other methods, which aids in identifying and addressing cognitive, behavioral, and emotional challenges. By identifying these difficulties, treatment plans can be tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient.

Educating Patients and Families
One of the key roles of neuropsychologists in concussion care is providing psychoeducation. Many patients and their families are unaware of the common symptoms of concussion and the typical recovery process. Educating them about what to expect can help alleviate anxiety and prevent the misattribution of symptoms to other causes. This education is crucial in helping patients understand that symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating are normal and expected parts of the recovery process.

Managing Symptoms with Care
In addition to psychoeducation, neuropsychologists provide recommendations for symptom management and treatment. This can include strategies for managing headaches, improving sleep, and reducing stress. Neuropsychologists also work closely with other healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and physical therapists when additional referrals are needed, to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care for their specific symptoms. The goal is to help patients return to their normal activities, including sports, school, and work, as safely and quickly as possible.

The Path to Safe Return-to-Play
Neuropsychologists also play a vital role in the return-to-play process. This involves assessing when it is safe for an athlete to resume sports activities and providing guidance on how to do so gradually. Monitoring cognitive and physical symptoms can help prevent further injury and ensure athletes have fully recovered before resuming play.

In Conclusion: Neuropsychologists’ Impact
In conclusion, neuropsychologists are an essential part of the assessment and management of concussion. Their expertise in evaluating cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms allows them to provide comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each patient. At Horizon Neuropsychological Services, our Concussion Clinic provides targeted treatment recommendations, education for patients and their families, and guidance throughout the return-to-play process to ensure that patients recover fully and safely.

Get in Touch
For more information about our Concussion Clinic or the role of neuropsychologists in concussion care, you can contact us at 720-242-7533, and refer to the below journal articles:

Ott, S.D., Bailey, C.M., & Broshek, D.K. (2018). An Interdisciplinary Approach to Sports Concussion Evaluation and Management: The Role of a Neuropsychologist. Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology, 33(3), 319–329. https://doi.org/10.1093/arclin/acx132

Echemendia, R. J., Iverson, G. L., McCrea, M., Broshek, D. K., Gioia, G. A., Sautter, S. W., … Barr, W. B. (2011). Role of Neuropsychologists in the Evaluation and Management of Sport-related Concussion: An Inter-Organization Position Statement. The Clinical Neuropsychologist, 25(8), 1289–1294. https://doi.org/10.1080/13854046.2011.618466