Concussion Awareness & Management Program (C.A.M.P.)

Braintree Rehab Hospital is proud to introduce its Concussion Awareness and Management Program. Our unique program emphasizes a comprehensive team approach in managing the medical, academic and occupational needs of student athletes, weekend warriors and working persons. The goal is to provide education, objective testing, graded activity progression and clear recommendations for safe return to activity.

Awareness (not covered by insurance)

1. Education for Athletes, Parents, Coaches, Academic Staff, Recreational Leagues, and Others
   
   • Concussion Basics: Causes, Incidence, Pathophysiology
   • Assessment/Management: Sideline/Acute Assessment, Follow-Up, General Guidelines
   • Long Term Consequences of Mismanagement
2. Baseline Testing with ImPACT and Biodex
   • In the event of a concussion, having baseline data available optimizes assessment of severity and allows accurate/safe return to activity recommendations
     • ImPACT measures Neurocognitive function
     • Biodex measures postural stability/balance

   Management: (covered by most insurances)

3. Post-Concussion Physical Therapy Evaluation
   • When concussion is diagnosed or suspected:
     • Upon referral by the primary care physician, a comprehensive PT evaluation can be scheduled within 24-48 business hours
     • Post-Injury ImPACT and Biodex testing performed as indicated to track recovery
     • Communication with the physician regarding test results and recommendations for follow-up care initiated on the same day as the evaluation.
4. Post-Concussion Treatment and Academic/Occupational Support
   • Recommendations for physical and cognitive accommodations to allow optimal recovery are communicated to school, work, etc.
   • For patients who remain symptomatic, the following services are available upon referral by physician:
     • PT for balance/vestibular impairments, neck pain, musculoskeletal injuries, and headaches
     • Neuropsychology
     • Speech Therapy/Occupational Therapy for cognitive impairments
     • ENT/Audiology Evaluation
5. Graded Return to Activity Assessment & Recommendations
   • Once symptoms have resolved, athletes must complete the 5-Step Graded Return to Play program prior to being authorized to return to game play.
   • Collaboration occurs with the referring physician regarding return to activity/work recommendations.

For your convenience, we also offer a "LAST MINUTE" service for those high school athletes who have been unable to obtain their physical in a timely manner.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment please call 781-348-4000 250 Pond Street, Braintree, MA 02184

Concussion: "The Silent Epidemic"

Did you know??

• A Concussion is a type of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) caused by a bump or jolt to the head that temporarily changes the way your brain normally works. This change is not usually detectable on imaging such as MRI or CT scan.
• Concussions can also occur from a fall or a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth.
• Symptoms of a concussion are variable, but can include: headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, difficulty remembering things, problems with balance and coordination, difficulty falling or staying asleep, excessive sleepiness
• According to the Centers of Disease Control & Prevention:
  • An estimated 1.7 million people in the U.S. sustain a TBI each year, with 75% being categorized as Concussion/mild TBI (mTBI).
  • The age groups most likely to sustain a TBI are: young children/toddlers, adolescents aged 15-19 and adults aged 65 & older.
• Concussions can occur during ANY sport, recreation, or work-related activity, as well during a car or other accident.
• Most people who sustain a concussion recover fully within 2 weeks. However:
  • If return to activity occurs before full recovery, symptoms can be prolonged & difficult to manage.
  • If an additional concussion occurs before full recovery, brain swelling & even death can occur as a result of second impact syndrome.
• If not recognized/managed properly, concussions can have serious long term consequences.
• Before return to activity after concussion; symptoms should no longer be present (at rest or with physical/cognitive demand), neurocognitive (memory, concentration, etc) and balance abilities should be at their pre-injury levels.
• Neurocognitive testing (i.e. ImPACT) is the most sensitive measure of recovery, especially when baseline data is available for comparison.
• Many people experience physical symptom relief before neurocognitive measures have returned to baseline. So without baseline and follow-up testing and assessment, these individuals may be at risk of premature return to activity & its associated consequences.
• If you or your loved ones participate in physically demanding activities or occupations, these facts present a compelling case in support of having baseline data available to allow optimal management in the event a concussion is sustained.

Click here to read more about ImPACT & the baseline testing now offered at Braintree Rehab Hospital!