A concussion is a brain injury that occurs from a direct or indirect hit to the head, as in the case of a sports injury, fall, or motor vehicle accident. It may or may not involve a loss of consciousness. Infants and children (ages 0 to 4), adolescents and young adults (ages 15 to 24), and older adults (ages 75 or older) are at the greatest risk of brain injury.
Gaining a better understanding of concussion leads to a better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Concussion symptoms may appear mild but can lead to significant, life-long impairments.
Origami's concussion care services provide expert assessment and education designed to help you better understand how to respond to your unique injury.
The winter season has officially arrived, meaning that #snow and ice could make venturing outside dangerous.
The winter is a particularly hazardous time of year for #slipping and falling. Falling is one of the leading causes of brain injury. Before you step outside this winter, please keep the following safety tips in mind:
Thoroughly and regularly salt driveways, sidewalks, and stairs.
Walk carefully across parking lots and provide children and seniors with additional support.
Use proper footing when shoveling snow or scraping ice off the car.
Wear shoes with good rubber tread for traction to reduce slipping.
Wear a helmet and protective equipment during winter sports.
Avoid head-first sledding.
Dress in layers to ensure that you are properly shielded from the frigid cold temperatures.
Get your vision checked to make sure see clearly when maneuvering through the winter elements.
Keep your hands free. Avoid putting your hands in your pockets and carrying heavy loads, this may offset your balance on an icy surface.
Avoid overexertion when shoveling or clearing ice off of your car. This may increase your chances of falling.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mackenzie Patterson, MS, OTRL, CBIS is an occupational therapist and a certified brain injury specialist at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. For more information on the services, Origami offers to brain injury survivors and caregivers, visit their Origami Rehabilitation