Our Services / Sports Concussions

Sports concussions are common, affecting about 3.8 million athletes every year in the United States. Though the severity of sports concussions varies, they’re considered traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and require medical care and monitoring. Jacob Katz, MD, at Katz Medical Group in Brooklyn, New York. and Manalapan, New Jersey, is an expert in sports medicine and treating sports concussions. For patient-centered care from an experienced physician, call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online today.

What are sports concussions?

Sports concussions are head injuries athletes get when playing a sport or engaging in exercise. Athletes of all ages are at risk of developing a sports concussion.

A concussion occurs from the violent back and forth movement of your head, forcing motion of the brain inside the skull. Sports concussions may develop from a direct blow to the head or a blow to the body.

Sports concussions are traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Though imaging studies may not show any brain damage, the impact to the head affects brain function. 

What are the symptoms of sports concussions?

Sports concussion symptoms vary and aren’t always obvious. However, it’s important to take note of head injuries because a concussion may lead to permanent brain damage without proper care.

Symptoms of a sports concussion might include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Poor memory
• Difficulty concentrating
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty speaking
• Change in sleep pattern
• Depression

These symptoms may appear right away following the head injury or several days after the injury.

If you or someone you love has a sports concussion, Dr. Katz can provide the care you need. 

What happens during an evaluation for sports concussions?

Dr. Katz performs a thorough history and physical exam when you come in with concerns about a sports concussion. He asks detailed questions about the injury and symptoms.

He performs a physical and neurological exam and may run cognitive neuropsychological tests and will evaluate the need for imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. 

What are the treatments for sports concussions?

Rest is the primary treatment for a sports concussion. Dr. Katz talks to you in great detail about your injury and his recommended treatments. The goal of your treatment plan is to heal your brain and prevent further damage.

Any further injury to your brain following a concussion may lead to permanent brain damage. 

Treatment for your concussion might include physical and mental rest, including minimal reading and TV watching. Within a few days, Dr. Katz may add some aerobic activity to your treatment plan and then back to your sport within a week or so. Sometimes vitamins and mineral supplementation may be needed. 

Most sports concussions heal within seven days. However, it’s important to follow Dr. Katz’s treatment plan to reduce the risk of complications.

For expert sports concussion care, call Katz Medical Group or book an appointment online today.