We provide quality, comprehensive treatment for patients who are injured or suffering from any type of movement or function disorder.
As a key member of today's dynamic health care team, we prescribe a goal-oriented program of evaluation, treatment, and prevention for our patient's specific needs.
Conditions we treat include but are not limited to:
A concussion is defined as a disruption of the normal functioning of the brain usually due to a direct or indirect force to the head.
Is Concussion a brain injury?
Yes. In short, it is a functional injury to the brain, rather than a structural injury.
What do you mean by a functional injury to the brain?
The brain controls many functions of the human body. When these functions are disrupted, the “concussed” person may experience problems with thinking, balance, emotion, and sleep. As a result, they may feel mentally “foggy,” dizzy, nauseated, more emotional, restless, or tired.
What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?
After sustaining a fall or blow to the head, if one or more of these signs are observed, a concussion is suspected:
Appears dazed or stunned, forgetful, or confused, An athlete who sustains a concussion may forget an instruction, be confused about an assignment or position, or be unsure of the game, score, or opponent.
Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall.
*Answers questions slowly
*Moves clumsily.
*Loses consciousness (even briefly).
*Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes.
If one or more of these symptoms are reported, a concussion is suspected:
Headache or “pressure” in the head.
*Nausea or vomiting.
*Balance problems or dizziness.
*Double or blurry vision.
*Bothered by light or noise.
*Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.
*Confusion, or concentration, or memory problems.
*Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down”
Someone must be “knocked out” or lose consciousness to have sustained a concussion, right?
This is a dangerous misconception about concussions. A concussion does not necessarily result in loss of consciousness, nor does the loss of consciousness on its own predict the severity or course of recovery from the concussion.
What should a parent or coach do when they are not sure whether their child or athlete sustained a concussion?
The statement “if in doubt, sit them out” summarizes it best. More specifically, the CDC recommends and California law (AB 2127)* mandates that an athlete suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury is prohibited from returning to the athletic activity until the athlete is evaluated by a licensed health care provider. This educational sheet published by the CDC is an excellent resource for parents and coaches:
What are the health risks of “playing through” a concussion or suspected concussion?
Due to slowed reaction time and impaired judgment, an individual who has not fully recovered from a concussion is at heightened risk to sustain another blow to the head if he or she continues to participate in an athletic event. A repeat concussion sustained before full recovery has occurred can lead to second impact syndrome, which is a serious and life-threatening condition that involves rapid swelling of the brain. Although serious, second impact syndrome is preventable through recognition and proper management of an initial concussion.
How soon can an athlete return to play after sustaining a concussion?
The good news is 85% of individuals recover within 3 weeks of sustaining a concussion. However, there are many factors involved in an individual’s recovery from a concussion. Prior to returning to play, it must first be determined by a licensed health care provider trained in the management of concussion that he or she has returned to their “baseline” or pre-injury state. In addition, the athlete must complete a graduated return to play protocol under the supervision of a licensed health care provider trained in the management of concussion.
Why see a Physical Therapist for a concussion?
A Physical Therapist, trained in the management of concussion, is able to evaluate and provide treatment and education for symptoms of concussion, including headache and dizziness. In addition, a physical therapist’s expertise in exercise and movement allows them to safely and effectively implement the mandatory graduated return to play protocol. A Physical Therapist with training and experience treating concussions can help screen for cognitive (thinking and memory) problems, or visual problems that are amenable to referral to Speech-Language Pathology or Occupational Therapy, respectively.
Why should someone choose Physical Therapy to recover from a concussion?
Our clinics are home to a cutting-edge team of Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists who are formally trained and experienced in the management of concussion. These expert clinicians have collaborated with local physicians to develop a comprehensive and affordable care model designed to return local high school athletes safely and successfully to sports, academics, and social roles.
Our sports enhancement program is designed to help you recover from an injury, prevent injury, which simultaneously enhancing your ability to compete. It emphasizes individualized strength and flexibility training, plyometric (intense activity designed to produce fast, powerful muscle movements) and neuromuscular (the relationship between nerves and muscles) coordination activities, and education on safe techniques to promote an unrestricted return to sport, as well as improved athletic performance to aid the prevention of future injury.
Even if you have not had success with other treatments, this program is for you. We address the root cause rather than merely treating symptoms. This results in a more long-lasting result which is highly effective in preventing recurrent problems.
Benefits of Our Sports Enhancement Program:
Safe, unrestricted return to sport after injury.
Improved athletic performance.
Avoid lingering effects of an injury.
Reduce the risk of re-injury.
Start seeing immediate results.
Faster recovery period.
Learn how to avoid future problems.
Increased flexibility & movement.
Increased strength.
Gain power, coordination, and speed.
How long before benefits are realized?
Depending on the severity of your current condition, results can be noticed in as little as 3 visits. Some severe cases may take longer.
Be Wary Of…
Over-aggressive programs that do not take into account your individual mechanics and medical history.
Very professional staff who work well together. The facility is always sparkling clean and the entire staff makes sure they are following COVID-19 protocols.
The staff has a genuine concern to help you with your recovery and on your way to a normal lifestyle. The Physical Therapists are highly educated in their field and do ongoing continuing education. I highly recommend El Dorado Hills Physical Therapy.
Dave Howald
02/02/2021
5
Everyone I’ve worked with at El Dorado PT is fantastic from receptions/scheduling to the therapists. I am truly feeling a lot better after only a few sessions there and I know I’ll be able to get back to my favorite outdoor activities soon. Thank you again for the support, in house physical therapy and prescribed home exercises!
Catherine Caputo
03/02/2021
5
El Dorado Physical Therapy is a great place to be treated for your injury. I am in therapy for an injury that required surgery and I can not begin to tell you how amazed I am with my progress. I have been working with both Brian and Ruben and they really have been a major contribution to my recovery. Everyone at this location is extremely friendly and helpful from the time you walk through the door for your appointment until you leave. I would highly recommend El Dorado PT!
Tammy Cavaliere
10/02/2021
5
Clean, modern, high quality equipment. Physical Therapists are knowledgeable, compassionate, and professional. I love the hands on approach and individualized attention. Other PT facilities leave you on your own with a few general exercises. Not at ElDorado PT! They are with you for your entire session and attentive to your individual needs. I love the app that is sent to me to continue my exercises at home-very helpful. Would definitely recommend ElDorado Physical Therapy to anyone!
Heidi Bonnett
03/02/2021
5
Amazing staff! They truly want the best for every patient that walks in their door. They become family and as much as you want to be better, you don’t want your time with them to end.
