Persistent Post-concussive Symptoms (PPCS): Treatment strategies
After covering introduction and imaging of persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS), also termed post-concussion syndrome, we continue moving forward to examine treatment strategies. The recommendations have been evolving over time and treatment for both acute and persistent concussive symptoms and has changed substantially from original strategies. Many providers will remember some advocating for waking the patient up every 1-2 hours in case there is a hemorrhage and goes unconscious. Other dated recommendations included complete physical and cognitive rest with minimal stimulation until symptoms resolved. Treatment strategies will continue to evolve as more studies are undertaken and a more comprehensive team approach is becoming more common.

Image 1. Exercise therapy as demonstrated by Dr Leddy of the University of Buffalo

Image 2. Demonstration of vestibular therapy (courtesy of athletico.com)

Image 3. Types of post-concussion headache patterns (courtesy of cognitivefx)