Evidence from:
B Gurr et al. Brain Injury. May (2001) Vol. 15 #5 p 387.
A report of the effect of concussion caused by an injury event and the effectiveness of graduated exposure, in a safe environment, on rehabilitation.
The report states that between 51% and 86% of minor head injuries are accompanied by post concussion syndrome (PCS):
• dizziness 25-30%,
• visual problems 19%,
• depression >35%,
• anxiety >45%
Duration is often >3 months (but without stating how often and in what circumstances).
The report into rehabilitation of such cases was not particularly noteworthy.
Comment
Treatment and the organisation of post injury services should make allowances for PCS.
Therapy to prevent unnecessary chronicity and severity of the above complications may prove valuable in preventing unnecessary morbidity and disability.