Search Results for: concussion

What is a concussion? A concussion is often referred to as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, stretching and damaging brain cells and creating chemical changes in the brain. There may be signs of injury to the head, such as bruising or cuts, or there may be no visible injury. A person does not necessarily lose consciousness after a concussion. Concussions are usually not life-threatening but, they should be taken seriously. Remember: A concussion/mTBI is an injury to the brain, not just ‘seeing stars’. Most people will recover completely within 2-3 weeks if given the proper periods of rest and a gradual return to activities. Repeated concussions occurring over an extended period can result in cumulative neurological and cognitive effects. Repeated concussions occurring within a short period of time can be catastrophic. Request a Workshop BIANJ offers customizable workshops for parents, teachers, and coaches. Contact us today to get your school up to speed on concussion prevention, recognition, and treatment. REQUEST A WORKSHOP Symptoms of Concussion Symptoms of concussion can vary, but common signs include: Dizziness Headaches Blurred Vision Nausea Vomiting Slurred Speech Appearing Dazed, Confused Ringing in the Ears Delayed Response to Questions What If I Have a Sports Concussion? LEARN THE SIGNS When to Seek Medical Attention Healthcare professionals recommend individuals contact their physician, call 911 , or go to the nearest emergency department immediately if someone sustains a bump, blow, or jolt to the head and has these symptoms: A headache that gets worse and does not go away Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination Repeated vomiting or nausea Slurred speech Drowsiness or cannot be awakened Pupil asymmetry Convulsions or seizures Does not recognize people or places Increased confusion, restlessness, and agitation Unusual behavior Loss of consciousness Treatment Many people who have a concussion will experience initial symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, thinking difficulties, and changes in behavior. Symptoms typically diminish after two to three weeks. If symptoms continue beyond two weeks, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional trained in concussion management. Evaluation by healthcare professionals trained in the care of concussion is important After sustaining a concussion, it is very important to avoid any activity that places the individual at risk of sustaining another concussion Assure the individual that symptoms will subside if a recovery plan that balances rest and activity is followed Since most people will recover completely, accommodations will be temporary Healthcare professionals who are trained in concussion management will also take into consideration the stressors in the person’s life and how those may impact the recovery process. All factors need to be considered and addressed as a part of the recovery plan. The good news is that research shows that early identification, education, and management of symptoms can prevent long-term symptoms. Managing the symptoms through a balance of rest and activity is the key to recovery. Post [...]

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Nathan D. Zasler, MD, DABPM&R, FAAPM&R, FACRM, BIM, CBIST is Founder, CMO and CEO of Concussion Care Centre of Virginia, Ltd., as well Founder and current Medical Director of Tree of Life in Richmond, Virginia. Dr. Zasler is board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, fellowship trained in brain injury rehabilitation and subspecialty certified in Brain Injury Medicine. He is an affiliate professor in the VCU Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Richmond, VA, and a visiting professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville.  Dr. Zasler is also a fellow of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine.   Dr. Zasler is internationally recognized as an expert in brain injury medicine and has published and lectured extensively on TBI related neuromedical issues.  He has published well over 200 peer reviewed articles, authored over 60 book chapters and given over 700 academic lectures. He has edited eight textbooks as either editor in chief, co-editor or associate editor and is editor in chief of the core textbook “Brain Injury Medicine:  Principals and Practice” now in its 3rd edition. He serves on numerous journal editorial boards and is chief editor of two peer reviewed international scientific journals: “Brain Injury” and “Neurorehabilitation”. He also serves as chief editor of the publication “Brain Injury Professional”.   He is Emeritus Chairperson as well as Vice-Chairperson of the International Brain Injury Association (IBIA).  Dr. Zasler was the first recipient of the NHIF Young Investigator Award, and among other awards has been recognized with the Sheldon Berrol Clinical Service award from BIAA.  He has been repeatedly recognized by “Best Doctors”.  Dr. Zasler is active in local, national and international organizations dealing with acquired brain injury and neurodisability, serving in numerous consultant and board member roles.

Summarized by Dan Zhou, MD October 2023 Insomnia is one of the most common complaints after traumatic brain injury. It occurs in almost half of patients and is more common in those with mild injuries, also known as concussions. People with insomnia have difficulty falling and staying asleep at night. This can negatively affect day-to-day routines due to tiredness and difficulty concentrating. A recent article titled “Perspective: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Is a Promising Intervention for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury” was published in Frontiers in Neurology which reviews cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) in concussion patients. CBT-I uses a combined cognitive and behavioral approach to treatment. Some examples include concepts such as limiting stimulation at bedtime, relaxation training, cognitive therapy, and sleep hygiene training. The overall goal is to promote sleep at bedtime, improve the sleep/wake cycle, and address negative thoughts surrounding sleep which would decrease sleep-related anxiety and arousal. In treatment trials, CBT-I has emerged as the preferred treatment for insomnia. The article mentions that 70-80% of patients with insomnia experience lasting benefit from CBT-I and about half have complete resolution. Similar to treating insomnia in general, CBT-I is also preferred as the main treatment for insomnia in concussion patients. Compared to taking prescription medications or self-treating, CBT-I does not have the side effects that all medications may carry and can provide lasting benefits. To understand why CBT-I is most appropriate for insomnia after concussion, we need to understand the connection between the two. The leading theory of why insomnia happens frequently after concussion is discussed in the article. First some people are at risk be it through their genetics or personalities. This is followed by a trigger which would be the head injury. The last factor is the perpetuating loop that keeps the sleep issues going. This loop is due to changes in behavior and attitudes. For instance, some people may attempt to sleep longer by taking more naps during the day which can mess up normal sleep patterns. Additionally, having negative thoughts like “lack of sleep will negatively affect my recovery” causes a cycle of anxiety associated with sleep. It is specifically this perpetuating loop phase with all of its behavioral and emotional factors where CBT-I may have the greatest benefit. Improving sleep after concussion is important as it is shown to improve mental functioning, pain, depression, and anxiety. These are some of the reasons that CBT-I has been and remains promising for the treatment of insomnia in mild traumatic brain injury patients.   For more information, view the article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7575746/  

Customizable education for the community. The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey provides interactive workshops on a variety of brain injury related topics. Workshops can be customized for the audience and adapted for different ages. For in-person presentations, a 20 person minimum is required and a donation is suggested. To request a workshop please fill out the form. If you have any questions, contact bchabner@bianj.org. Brain Injury EducationTransportation SafetyBrain Injury Prevention & OtherBrain Injury Education Introduction to Brain Injury –This workshop provides an overview of the different types of brain injuries, common causes, symptoms and changes that result from brain injury, as well as strategies for assisting brain injury survivors.   Adjustment to Brain Injury – Designed for brain injury survivors and caregivers to discuss the challenges of adjusting to life after brain injury. The workshop reviews the various changes that can result from brain injury, common responses to these changes, and strategies for developing support throughout one’s journey.   Brain Injury in Students – Designed to teach educators and school staff how to support students with brain injury, this presentation reviews the different types of brain injury, the effect of brain injury on students, and accommodations and strategies for assisting students.   Brain Injury & Substance Abuse –This workshop provides an introduction to brain injury, highlights the bidirectional relationship between brain injury and substance abuse, and offers strategies for working with individuals impacted by brain injury.   Brain Injury & Domestic Violence –Designed to provide an introduction to brain injury, explore the connection and barriers associated with brain injury and intimate partner violence, and offers strategies for working with survivors of brain injury and domestic violence.   Brain Injury & Mental Health –This workshop provides an introduction to brain injury, explores mental health concerns that are common after brain injury, and offers strategies for working with survivors of brain injury.   Return to Work After Brain Injury –Designed for brain injury survivors and caregivers this workshop highlights common barriers to employment after brain injury and reviews the resources and accommodations that are available to assist survivors on their vocational journey. Transportation Safety Helmet & Wheeled Sport Safety – Focuses on wheeled sport safety (bike, scooter, skateboard), including the importance of wearing a helmet and rules of the road.   Distracted Driving – Designed to teach how to be aware of distractions and demonstrates how everyone can share the road. Strategies for drivers to prevent crashes and to understand pedestrian safety will be included.   Pedestrian Safety – Focuses on safety tips for walking and crossing the road.   Teen Safe Driving – Designed to educate teens about the GDL laws, pedestrian safety and how to be aware of distractions. Strategies for new drivers to prevent crashes and to learn how everyone can share the road will be included.   Child Passenger Safety – Designed to help families understand which car seat is right for their child and to learn when car seats need to be switched.  We also offer a workshop for K-1 grade students designed to teach them the importance of sitting in a booster seat.   School Bus/School Zone Safety- A [...]

May 14, 2025 The Palace at Somerset Park, Somerset, NJ Register Today!Exhibitor and Sponsorship OpportunitiesEvent Brochure Save the Date! May 14,2025 Enhancing Understanding Across the Brain Injury Spectrum The Annual Seminar offers an educational and networking opportunity for professionals to gain knowledge of the latest research, best practices and effective strategies for working with individuals affected by brain injury. The knowledge level of the audience varies, including both new and experienced professionals. The Seminar is a full day conference consisting of a keynote presentation followed by three workshop blocks with three presentations in each block. Lunch will be served and organization exhibitors and student poster presentations will also be included. Student Poster Proposal Request The Annual Professional Seminar offers an educational and networking opportunity for professionals to gain knowledge of the latest research, best practices and effective strategies for working with individuals affected by brain injury. We invite you to submit a poster proposal. Posters typically focus on research, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and public health issues related to individuals affected by brain injury. All accepted posters will be displayed at this year's Annual Professional Seminar. We're looking forward to seeing what you come up with! Submit Yours Now! Kristy B. Arbogast, Ph.D Keynote Address “Opportunities for Reducing the Effects of Concussion Across the Prevention Spectrum” Kristy B. Arbogast, Ph.D. The presentation will discuss the spectrum of prevention on concussion – from primary prevention through protective equipment, secondary prevention through accurate and timely diagnosis and tertiary prevention through effective treatments.  Various mechanisms of injury will be highlighted including sports-related injuries as well as those injuries sustained in motor vehicle crashes.  Existing inequities across various sociodemographic groups will be discussed, including strategies to mitigate those disparities. Kristy Arbogast, PhD, is the Scientific Director of the Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Co-Director of the Minds Matter Concussion Frontier Program at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the R. Anderson Pew Endowed Chair and Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania. As a bioengineer, her research focuses on injury biomechanics and the effectiveness of safety products concentrating on the protection of youth in motor vehicle crashes and pediatric concussion. Dr. Arbogast’s concussion research focuses on the use of head impact sensors to understand the biomechanics and bioengineering technology for objective measures of diagnosis and monitoring. She has established rigorous methods of data collection and processing to quantify repetitive head impacts across multiple sports in male and female youth, leading a consensus conference on the topic, from which best practices have been published. In parallel work, she serves a leadership role on the NFL Engineering Committee, interpreting multiple data streams for mitigation of head injuries through improved equipment, rules of the game and playing technique. Dr. Arbogast is funded by NIH, CDC and DOD to study objective measures of neurofunction in concussed youth and strategies for optimizing concussion care. Thank You To Our Sponsors Award Nominations Each year the Alliance recognizes outstanding individuals for their dedication to our mission through their professional contributions, personal achievements, strength of character, and relentless work to support our constituency. Mimi Goldman Positive Achievement Award Mimi Goldman, who was [...]

A Fall-Free Future: Shielding New Jersey from Traumatic Brain Injuries Our mission is to promote safety, raise awareness, and prevent brain injuries. Falls can happen to anyone at any time. Certain populations are at higher risk for falls including children, people with disabilities, and older adults. Some industries and workplaces also face higher risks of falls. As an organization dedicated to safeguarding our community's well-being, we strive to address the alarming prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Our commitment to fall prevention education empowers individuals and families to create safer environments and protect their loved ones from unnecessary risks. Together, we can make a significant impact on preventing brain injuries and fostering a safer, more secure future for all. Join us in our efforts to build a safer New Jersey for generations to come! ChildrenWorkplaceOlder AdultsChildren Preventing Falls in Children Every day, 8,000 children require emergency room treatment for fall-related injuries—making falls the leading cause of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) among children aged 0 to 4. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for preventive measures to safeguard our children's well-being. Causes of these fall-related injuries among children include sports-related incidents and falls from stairs, windows, and playground equipment. Understanding simple prevention strategies can help to reduce the risk of falls. Preventive Measures to Safeguard Children from Fall-Related Injuries Always use proper protective gear, such as helmets, while playing sports. Always wear helmets when riding bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or participating in other wheeled sports. Maintain constant supervision of young children around fall hazards or when they are on elevated areas. Install protective rails on beds and guards on windows. Utilize gates at both ends of stairways to prevent young children from accessing stairs without supervision. Ensure play areas are well-maintained and regularly inspected, ensuring playground equipment is free from hazards. By implementing these preventive measures and raising awareness about the risks of fall-related injuries, we can create a safer environment for our children. Family & Children Fall Prevention Resources Falls in Children and Youth: Hospitalizations SafeKids Worldwide: Fall Prevention Tips Childhood Falls Fact Sheet Workplace Preventing Workplace Falls 18% of non-fatal workplace injuries nationwide are caused by falls. While falls can happen in any workplace, certain industries are at higher risk. These incidents can result from unguarded edges, damaged safety equipment, slippery conditions, improperly installed guardrails, improper ladder use, obstructed views, inadequate lighting, and failure to utilize fall prevention equipment when working at heights. Preventive Measures to Ensure a Safer Work Environment Use physical barriers, guardrails, or scaffolding to prevent falls from heights. Utilize harnesses or anchor points when necessary. Practice proper ladder usage, always adhering to safety guidelines. Promptly clean up all spills and remove debris to eliminate slip hazards. Ensure work areas are well-lit to improve visibility and reduce the risk of tripping. Regularly inspect safety equipment before each use to guarantee its effectiveness and reliability. By adopting these preventive measures, employers and workers can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls, fostering a safer and more secure work environment for everyone. Workplace Fall Prevention Resources Planning a Multi-Layered Approach to Fall Prevention and Protection How High Is Deadly? [...]

CTE AWARENESS DAY January 30, 2024 Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, commonly referred to as "CTE," is a pathological diagnosis that has been found on autopsy in athletes, veterans, and others with histories of repeated brain traumas. Some reported experienced by people eventually diagnosed with CTE include difficulty with impulse control, aggression, depression, irritability, paranoia, anxiety, and difficulty with memory and sleep. It is important to remember that these symptoms are common and can be caused by many other things that may be treatable. There is still debate about how common CTE actually is, and there is currently no way to diagnose CTE in a living person. One concussion in the absence of other brain trauma has never been seen to cause CTE, and, while the risk factors for developing CTE remain unclear, it is proposed that repetitive head/brain trauma is of greater concern. Causes of CTE Evidence suggests that repeated or recurrent blows to the head can increase the risk of developing CTE. However, most people with concussion will not develop CTE. Exact causes are not fully understood and are still being researched. Learn more When to Get Medical Advice If you have sustained a blow to the head or body that resulted in a concussion (also a traumatic brain injury), you should seek medical attention. You may experience issues with memory, mood swings, confusion, and difficulty thinking. If you are worried about any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to consult with your physician. It is important to note that there currently is no test to diagnose CTE. Most athletes, veterans, or people with a history of repeated concussions, will not develop CTE. However, if you are experiencing long lasting symptoms of after a brain injury or head trauma, you should always seek medical attention. Prevention of CTE Brain injury is difficult to predict or avoid, however prevention is key to reducing the risk. Always wear protective gear, use proper technique, and practice good sportsmanship All athletes should be supervised at all times by a professional who is trained to screen for signs and symptoms of concussion Follow concussion protocol and listen to the advice of your concussion management team Stay up to date with the latest information about concussion diagnosis and management Seek medical advice immediately if a concussion or brain injury is suspected Need advice? Contact the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey's Helpline at 1-800-669-4323 or info@bianj.org. Contact Us Resources UCSF Dementia Patient Guide_CTE_11-3-17.pdf What is CTE? | Concussion Legacy Foundation (concussionfoundation.org) What_Is_CTE.pdf (concussionfoundation.org) Young Amateur Athletes at Risk of CTE, BU Study Finds | The Brink | Boston University

Independent Study Available: May 22 - June 25, 2023 Register NowEvent Brochure Uncovering the Invisible: Delving into the Silent Epidemic of Brain Injury The Annual Seminar offers an educational and networking opportunity for professionals to gain knowledge of the latest research, best practices and effective strategies for working with individuals affected by brain injury. The knowledge level of the audience varies, including both new and experienced professionals. The Seminar is a full day conference consisting of a keynote presentation followed by three workshop blocks with three presentations in each block. Lunch will be served and organization exhibitors and student poster presentations will also be included. Workshops include: Clinical Research and Practice of Cognitive Rehabilitation High Intensity Gait Training Addressing Cognitive Dysfunction Yoga as a Skilled Intervention Leisure Recovery from Sports Concussion Neuropsychological Test Findings and Avoiding Jargon Hidden Epidemic of Intimate Partner Violence Research Panel Keynote Address Understanding Concussion+: The Overlooked Epidemic of Brain Injuries Sustained by Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence Eve Valera, PhD Associate Professor, Harvard Medical School Research Scientist, Massachusetts General Hospital Award Nominations Each year the Alliance recognizes outstanding individuals for their dedication to our mission through their professional contributions, personal achievements, strength of character, and relentless work to support our constituency. Submit a NominationMimi Goldman Positive Achievement Award Mimi Goldman, who was pivotal in the development of the Council for the Head-Injured Community (CHIC, now known as VOICES), passed away in 1997. She was the first person with a brain injury to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey. Mimi served as a role model for the brain injury community, sharing her talents and experiences on numerous committees and events, and always with a characteristic smile. The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey established the Miriam (Mimi) Goldman Positive Achievement Award in the spring of 1997 to commemorate Mimi Goldman. This award is presented each year to an individual with a brain injury to honor his or her accomplishments. 2022 Recipient: Christopher Mueller Click here to nominate someone for this award.  Trooper Scales Memorial Award Trooper Christopher S. Scales was a front-line partner in the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey’s brain injury prevention efforts. Trooper Scales was struck and killed on December 3, 2002 while conducting a seatbelt enforcement detail on the New Jersey Turnpike. The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey honored State Trooper Christopher Scales posthumously in May 2003 by introducing the Trooper Christopher Scales Memorial Award. This award is presented each year to a member of the law enforcement community who has demonstrated exemplary efforts in promoting public safety and brain injury prevention. 2022 Recipient: Sgt. Jefferey Delbuono Click here to nominate someone for this award.  Jill Schulman Community Pillar Award The Jill Schulman Community Pillar Award recognizes individuals, employed in the brain injury field, who significantly contribute to the quality of life for people with brain injury and their caregivers and promote brain health through their volunteer service and support of the mission of the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey. The Award was renamed to honor Jill Schulman who passed away in May [...]

Building Community and Enhancing Quality of Life Following Brain Injury Independent Study is available through June 22, 2022. REGISTER NOW Independent Study Workshop Links and Evaluation Forms: If you are applying for CEUs, you must watch one workshop per session in its entirety and submit the corresponding Evaluation Form. Opening RemarksKeynoteBlock ABlock BBlock COverall EvaluationOpening Remarks Opening Remarks Keynote Keynote: The Power and Potency of Social Capital Complete the Evaluation Block A Implementation of Structured Physical Exercise to Promote Mental Health/Wellness in Individuals After Brain Injury Complete the Evaluation Performance Feedback: From Research to Utilization in Practice Complete the Evaluation Executive Functioning, Mental Health and Brain Injury: Connecting the Dots in School Complete the Evaluation Block B Stress Reduction Program for Caregivers of Those With Brain Injuries Complete the Evaluation Executive Functioning, Mental Health and Work: Challenges for Those Returning to Work Complete the Evaluation Block C Research Panel Complete the Evaluation Concussion: Not Just an "Athlete" Thing Complete the Evaluation Dysphagia and Aspiration Following Brain Injury: Factors, Limitations and Management Complete the Evaluation Overall Evaluation Overall Evaluation 2022 Independent Study Brochure DOWNLOAD NOW! Posttests If you are applying for NASW, you must complete a posttest. NASW Posttest » Student Poster Presentations Training with Agency-Inspired Feedback from a Sensor Glove in Virtual Reality to Improve Grasp Performance Is yoga beneficial for the physical and mental health for individuals with chronic stroke? Self reported balance confidence following traumatic vs. non traumatic brain injury Do adolescents with ADHD demonstrate longer recovery duration/after concussion? Web-based geospatial brain injury service provider catalog For ambulatory adults with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury, does dual-task training improve balance and fall risk? This event is funded in part by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Disability Services, and the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. 2021 CEU Sponsor: We're here to help. Call 1-800-669-4323.