This course presents the latest evidence-based information on pathophysiology, risk factors, differential diagnosis, and treatment of acute concussion and of persisting post-concussive symptoms (PPCS). Attendees will learn of the latest updates on the approach to sport-related concussion from the 6th International Concussion in Sport Group Conference held in Amsterdam. Attendees will benefit from clinical demonstrations and case reports of specific assessments and treatments for post-concussion vision, vestibular, and cervical injuries as well as how to approach and treat the frequently encountered psychological and cognitive problems after concussion/mTBI.

At the end of this symposium, attendees will be able to: (1) Describe the physiology of concussion and how it informs clinical concussion endophenotypes; (2) Describe risk factors for PPCS; (3) Describe how to develop a differential diagnosis and evidence-based treatments for the symptoms acutely after concussion for PPCS; (4) Describe the latest recommendations for returning concussed students to school and to sport; (5) Identify how to recognize and treat psychiatric, cognitive, cervical spine, vestibular, and vision problems after concussion; and (6) Describe physical examination techniques to aid in the differential diagnosis and treatment of post-concussion vision deficits, vestibular dysfunction, and cervical injuries.

Cervical spine dysfunction and impairments are an often-overlooked component in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with persistent post concussive symptoms. With some studies showing that as high as 90% of patients with PPCS have cervical spine involvement, it is imperative that a proper screen of the neck be implemented. This session will discuss the current best practices for assessment and interventions of patients suffering from neck pain and headaches after a concussion. Participants will be able to describe common headache types involved in PPCS, differentiate cervical spine involvement from other post-concussive impairments, including vestibular and occulo-motor pathology and identify evidence-based treatment approaches for this patient population.

Vestibular and oculomotor deficits are common after concussion and can contribute to many post -concussive symptoms, impairments, and functional limitations. These may include dizziness, balance problems, blurred vision, headaches, nausea, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, difficulty reading, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, and fatigue. New guidelines recently published from the International Conference on Concussion in Sport-Amsterdam, indicate the benefits of vestibular rehabilitation in individuals with dizziness, neck pain, and/or headaches which persist for more than 10 days in adults, and 4 weeks in children and adolescents. Participants will describe common vestibular-oculomotor symptoms post-concussion and identify evidence-based assessments and treatment approaches.