Are there critical concussion symptom profiles that you are missing in your clinical practice? In this episode, host Dr. Phil Plisky, PT, DSc, ATC, CSCS, sits down with Dr. Mary Ann Roelke, OTD, OTR, a distinguished expert with over 35 years of experience in neurologic rehabilitation, to challenge the way we approach postconcussion care. Together, they unpack why concussions must be treated as complex neurological injuries rather than standard musculoskeletal setbacks, detailing how global life impairments often slip through the cracks. You will discover how simple clinical shifts—such as testing positional blood pressure and using specific symptom screening clusters—can dramatically reshape your treatment trajectories, while learning to effectively leverage multidisciplinary “superpowers” and actionable pacing rules to confidently guide your patients back to the activities that bring them joy.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyze the evidence around concussion rehabilitation identification, education, and multidisciplinary referral
• Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address progressive return to meaningful activities and symptom management after a concussion
• Solve patient case scenarios involving complex concussion clinical profiles and coordinated multidisciplinary care

Timestamps

• (00:00:00) Welcome
• (00:00:05) Introduction to concussion rehabilitation
• (00:01:32) Dr. Roelke's background and expertise
• (00:02:10) Why concussion rehab is unique
• (00:03:44) Understanding the complexity of brain injury
• (00:05:22) Addressing persisting symptoms
• (00:07:59) Blood pressure testing and autonomic nervous system
• (00:10:16) Cognitive and emotional impact
• (00:12:46) Research and symptom profiles
• (00:15:53) Education, identification, and referral
• (00:18:45) Activity pacing and safe movement
• (00:19:50) Multidisciplinary referrals
• (00:25:13) Rehabilitation and practical clinic application
• (00:29:46) Case study: complex concussion management
• (00:34:16) Interventions and strategies
• (00:38:12) Key takeaways for clinicians
• (00:38:50) Current projects and further learning
• (00:40:25) Staying connected and resources

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