Speech-language pathologists (S-LPs) and audiologists are essential to quality, person-centered, interprofessional concussion care.
Concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury. Physical, cognitive, communicative and emotional symptoms may follow a concussion. Although these difficulties usually resolve within four weeks of the injury, approximately 20% of adults and children experience prolonged post-concussion symptoms that interfere with return to regular activity.
The Role of S-LPs in Concussion Management
A broad range of communication impairments can occur after concussion. Cognitive-communication disorders are a specific type of communication difficulty that occur frequently after concussion. Cognitive-communication disorders can affect auditory comprehension and information processing, verbal expression and discourse, social communication, reading comprehension and written expression.
S-LPs have specialized knowledge of cognitive-communication and other communication disorders resulting from concussions. S-LPs provide practical strategies, education, guidance and interventions to help with return to work, school and everyday life after a concussion.
SAC resources about the role of S-LPs in concussion management:
The Role of Audiologists in Concussion Management
A concussion can affect both hearing and balance. Prolonged hearing and balance (vestibular) symptoms can include difficulty following conversations in quiet and in background noise, tinnitus, dizziness, sound sensitivities, nausea, and visual impairments.
Audiologists have specialized training in the assessment and intervention of hearing and vestibular difficulties. They provide education, counseling, technologies and interventions to help with return to work, school and everyday life after a concussion.
SAC resources about the role of audiologists in concussion management: