Title: Assessment and Treatment of Dizziness: The Primary Symptom of a Prolonged Recovery from Concussion.

Session Description: 

“Dizziness at the time of injury was associated with a 6.34 times increased risk of a protracted recovery from concussion” was published by Lau and colleagues in 2011.  Wang and associates in 2021 did a retrospective review of 103 patients with concussions. Patients were evaluated at an average of 18.8 weeks (SD, 16.4 weeks) after the injury. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) was diagnosed in one-third of the subjects.

This session will focus on presenting the normal vestibular anatomy, and vestibular impairments after a concussion,  presenting the findings of our current research on the prevalence of BPPV after mTBI in the young adult population. Early assessment and treatment of BPPV can decrease the prolonged recovery from mTBI/concussion.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the normal anatomy and function of the Vestibular system
2. Understand the impairments of the central and peripheral vestibular system after mTBI/concussion
3. Appreciate the benefits of early evaluation and treatment of BPPV to improve the timely recovery from mTBI/concussion

The Cellular Biomechanics of TBIs

Description:

We will explore the fundamental concepts of primary and secondary injuries associated with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions, shedding light on the critical beginnings of these injuries. Our discussion will be centered around the intriguing research conducted in our lab, where we employ advanced three-dimensional microscopy techniques to unravel the mysteries of neuron deformation in traumatic brain injuries. The Franck Lab is renowned for its expertise in cellular biomechanics and its pioneering use of cutting-edge experimental mechanics techniques, all conducted at the micro and nanoscale. Throughout this presentation, we will provide you with valuable insights into our research methodologies and the compelling motivations that drive our endeavors. Join us on this journey to uncover the secrets of traumatic brain injuries and gain a deeper understanding of the crucial early stages of these complex injuries.

Learning objectives:

1. Comprehend the distinctions between primary and secondary injury in TBI/concussions.
2. Knowledge of advanced microscopy techniques.
3. Develop an appreciation for interdisciplinary approaches in research.
4. Acquire insight into how cells respond to mechanical forces.

Title: I'm ready to play, today! Returning to play after a sports related concussion

Session Description:  Have you ever had or known someone who has had a concussion? Our thoughts and management of sports-related concussions have evolved a lot over the recent years. We will discuss diagnosis and management of sports-related concussion and specifically get into the new developments of returning to play after a concussion. Out with the old “don’t do this” and in with the new “get up and do this!”

Learning Objectives:

1. Discuss mechanism and diagnosis of sports-related concussion
2. Discuss common symptoms of concussion and why they occur
3. Review return to play protocol and updates in sports-related concussion recover