Concussions are more than just a bump on the head—they’re a type of traumatic brain injury that can affect your memory, balance, and overall cognitive function. They can occur in athletes, during everyday accidents, or even from a simple slip and fall. At The OUCH Center, Dr. Maxim Moradian and his experienced team specialize in identifying, evaluating, and treating concussions to ensure safe and effective recovery.
Understanding Concussions
A concussion happens when a sudden impact causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This movement can damage brain cells and create chemical changes, resulting in a variety of symptoms. Even mild concussions should be taken seriously, as untreated injuries can lead to longer recovery times and complications.
Common Causes:
Sports-related impacts: Football, soccer, basketball, and other contact sports
Motor vehicle accidents: Collisions can jar the brain, even without a direct head hit
Falls: Slips, trips, or falls at home or work
Recreational accidents: Bicycle, skateboarding, or rollerblading incidents
Symptoms to Watch For:
Headaches or pressure in the head
Dizziness, balance issues, or lightheadedness
Confusion, memory lapses, or difficulty concentrating
Nausea or vomiting
Sensitivity to light or noise
Mood changes, irritability, or sleep disturbances
Loss of consciousness (though this doesn’t always occur)
Symptoms may appear immediately or develop gradually over hours or days, so monitoring after any head impact is essential.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Concussion evaluation should always be conducted by trained professionals. At The OUCH Center, our team uses a combination of:
Medical history review: Understanding how the injury occurred and prior head injuries
Physical and neurological exams: Checking balance, coordination, reflexes, and cognitive function
Imaging or diagnostic testing (if needed): To rule out more serious injuries like fractures or bleeding
Proper assessment ensures the right treatment plan and prevents complications from returning to activity too soon.
Recovery Strategies
Most concussions improve with time and careful management. Recovery strategies include:
Rest and gradual return to activity: Both physical and cognitive rest are important initially, followed by a carefully monitored return to normal activities.
Physical therapy: Vestibular therapy or balance exercises may be prescribed to manage dizziness and improve coordination.
Cognitive rehabilitation: Helps patients regain focus, memory, and problem-solving skills.
Symptom management: Medications or other interventions may be recommended for headaches, sleep issues, or mood changes.
Individualized care is key—no two concussions are alike, and the treatment plan should fit each patient’s needs.
When to Seek Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
Severe or worsening headaches
Repeated vomiting
Slurred speech or difficulty walking
Loss of consciousness
Confusion, unusual behavior, or seizures
Even mild symptoms should be evaluated promptly to ensure a safe recovery.
Get Expert Concussion Care at The OUCH Center
Whether you’re an athlete returning to sports or recovering from a non-sport injury, The OUCH Center is here to help. Dr. Maxim Moradian and his team provide comprehensive concussion evaluations and personalized recovery plans to get you back to your best safely.
Schedule your consultation today by calling (626) 389-3893 or (818) 643-4346, emailing info@theouchcenter.com, or visiting our locations: Arcadia: 51 N. 5th Avenue, Suite 301E; Glendale: 317 S. Brand, A-106; Palmdale: 41210 11th Street West, Suite K. Our mission is to help you heal, prevent further injury, and return to your daily life with confidence.