What Is the Best Treatment for Post-Concussion Syndrome?

The best treatment for post-concussion syndrome is the one that works for the patient and it may involve a combination of modalities to relieve symptoms. Treatment may include aerobic exericse, physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and more.

The best treatment for post-concussion syndrome is the one that works for the patient and it may involve a combination of modalities. The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms of post-concussion syndrome. 

Treatments endorsed by the 5th International Consensus on Concussion include: 

• Individualized aerobic exercise program (also called graduated exercise therapy, or graded exercise therapy) for patients whose symptoms are associated with autonomic nervous system dysfunction (such as problems with blood pressure and breathing)
• Physical therapy program in patients with neck (cervical spine) or vestibular dysfunction
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to learn to cope with chronic mood or behavioral issues

Additional treatments for post-concussion syndrome may include:

• Vision therapy, also referred to as oculomotor therapy, or neuro-optometric rehabilitation to help resolve symptoms associated with vision problems
• Vestibular therapy to help with symptoms including loss of balance, dizziness or spinning, eye strain, blurred vision, headaches, and fatigue
• Medications
  • Should only be used along with other therapies 
  • They do not treat the concussion itself; they are used to treat symptoms such as:
    • Post-traumatic headaches (including migraines)
    • Depression
    • Anxiety
    • Insomnia
    • Pain
      • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended; avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) or aspirin, which may increase the risk of bleeding
• Light therapy (photobiomodulation) 
  • Currently being researched
  • Devices use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver light in the visible red and near-infrared wavelengths
  • Some studies have shown light therapy to be helpful for persistent post-concussion symptoms
• CBD/medical marijuana
  • CBD may be neuroprotective and help the brain heal following injury
• Craniosacral therapy
  • Involves gentle touch to the head and neck
  • There is limited research for this treatment but anecdotal evidence of positive effects
• Massage therapy
  • Can help relieve tension in the neck and shoulders
• Hormone therapy 
  • May be helpful if there is accompanying neuroendocrine dysfunction