--- title: How to Recover From Chronic Concussion Syndrome description: Chronic concussion syndrome (persistent post-concussion symptom) can last for years. The good news is that symptoms often resolve with the right treatment. image: https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/chronic-concussion-syndrome-1.png --- ![Light-Mode-Sun-Icon-SVG](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/Sun.svg) ![Dark-Mode-Moon-Icon-SVG](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/moon.svg) ###### 280 W River Park Drive Suite 110 Provo, UT ###### [+1 385 446-4161](tel:+13854464161) ###### [hello@cognitivefxusa.com](mailto:hello@cognitivefxusa.com) [![Main_Logo_500px 1](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/Main_Logo_500px%201.svg) ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/) [**Get Started** ](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2921058/881eced2-ed9a-4b23-a8ba-b17b0921e4b3) - [Brain Injury Treatments](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/treatment) ![down arrow](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/down-arrow-1.svg) ### Your Treatment ###### [Post-Concussion Syndrome Treatment Our intensive EPIC program helps patients recover from symptoms that haven't responded to traditional care.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/treatment) ###### [POTS Treatment POTS treatment clinic using neurological retraining, vestibular recalibration & CO₂ therapy. 5-day intensive program in Utah.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/pots-treatment) ###### [Viral Brain Injury Treatment Long Covid-19, Post-Treatment Lyme, Encephalitis. We utilize cutting-edge treatments to help you regain function.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/viral-brain-injury) ###### [What does CFX do for PCS? Learn more about post-concussion.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com) ###### [Book Consult Schedule a 30-minute call with one of our doctors to see if CFX precision treatment approach is right for you.](https://cognitivefxusa.typeform.com/consult-intake) ###### [Pricing Pricing for each of our treatment packages and other important financial information.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/pricing) ###### [Learn about the Brain Scan fNCI Standard brain scans show structure. fNCI shows function. It's the difference between a "normal scan" and being able to see what is wrong and treat it.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/fnci-brain-scan-at-cognitive-fx-56-regions-measured) ###### [TIA Mini Stroke Treatment Still struggling with brain fog, fatigue, or memory issues after a TIA or mini stroke? Cognitive FX uses functional brain imaging and an intensive 5-day program to treat the symptoms standard care misses.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/tia-mini-stroke-treatment-for-lingering-symptoms-cognitive-fx) - [TMS Treatments](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/precision-mental-health-fmri-guided-transcranial-magnetic-stim) ![down arrow](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/down-arrow-1.svg) ### Depression Treatment ###### [Depression Treatment fMRI Guided TMS Depression treatment with precision brain imaging meets advanced TMS protocols for depression that hasn't responded to medication.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/precision-mental-health-fmri-guided-transcranial-magnetic-stim) ###### [One-Day Depression TMS Treatment Protocol Accelerated depression treatment TMS protocol that compresses weeks of treatment into one day intensive session.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/one-d-tms-one-day-tms-accelerated-depression-treatment-protocol) ###### [Depression Treatment Resistant Quiz Tried multiple antidepressants with no relief? This free quiz evaluates your treatment history, symptoms, and risk factors to help you understand your next steps.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/treatment-resistant-depression-quiz-free-self-assessment-no-email) ###### [Schedule Consultation Schedule a 30-minute telehealth visit with our team to discuss potential TMS treatment.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/tms-consultation-signup) ###### [Depression Treatment Blogs Learn more about TMS treatment for depression. And how effective it can be for patients with treatment-resistant depression.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/topic/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-tms) - [Treatment Results](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/our-patients) ![down arrow](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/down-arrow-1.svg) ### Patient Results ###### [Publications Learn more about post-concussion.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/our-research) ###### [Patient Results We see patients from all over the world with different types of brain injuries. Learn more about who our patients are.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/treatment-outcomes) ###### [Patient Stories Our patients say it best! Watch our past patients' stories.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/patient-stories) ###### [Other Brain Injuries We have found our approach to concussion treatment also works for other types of brain injuries. Check out our non-concussion patients' improvements with EPIC Treatment.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/other-types-of-injuries) ###### [How We Measure Success Learn more about how we measure the success of EPIC Treatment through our fNCI scan and symptom measurements.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/treatment-outcomes) ###### [Treatment Summary Whitepaper Learn more about the outcomes and studies done on targeted fMRI guided treatment for brain injuries.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/Treatment%20and%20Research%20Summary/Treatment%20%26%20Research%20Summary%20(web).pdf?hsLang=en-us) - [Symptom Trackers](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/post-concussion-symptom-tracker) ![down arrow](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/down-arrow-1.svg) ### Your Treatment ###### [Post Concussion Symptom Tracker Free post-concussion symptom tracker tool. Can measure symptoms daily or weekly, all data stored locally.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/post-concussion-symptom-tracker) ###### [POTS Symptom Tracker Learn more about your symptoms. Log heart rate (lying/standing), blood pressure, and triggers daily. No account needed.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/free-pots-symptom-tracker-log-vitals-triggers-cognitive-fx) - [Blog](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog) ![down arrow](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/down-arrow-1.svg) ### The Cognitive FX Head Injury Blog ###### [Post Concussion Treament Learn more about post-concussion syndrome.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/topic/post-concussion-treatment) ###### [Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Learn more about TMS for depression, anxiety, and concussion.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/topic/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-tms) ###### [Long Covid - Viral Infection Treatment Learn more about how we treat viral infections that impact the brain. COVID-19, Lyme, etc.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/topic/covid) ###### [Other Brain Injuries Treated Read about other types of brain injury we treat. Stroke, TIA, Tinnitus, etc.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/topic/traumatic-brain-injury) ###### [Patient Outcomes and Stories Learn more about the specific symptoms and issues our patients have faced.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/topic/patient-stories) ###### [Browse more topics here! Browse through all of the brain injury topics and posts from the Cognitive FX Blog home.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog) [**Get Started** ](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2921058/881eced2-ed9a-4b23-a8ba-b17b0921e4b3) #### [Back to Blog](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog) #### Content #### Proven Results Improvement in 77% of Participants Published peer-reviewed research shows that Cognitive FX treatment leads to meaningful symptom reduction in post-concussion symptoms for 77% of study participants. Cognitive FX is the only PCS clinic with third-party validated treatment outcomes. [ READ FULL STUDY ](https://www.tvnp.nl/inhoud/tijdschrift_artikel/NP-19-2-3/Cognitive-FX-behandeling-voor-aanhoudende-klachten-na-een-hersenschudding-Observatie-van-verandering-in-functioneren) 1. [ Home ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com) 2. [ Blog ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog) 3. How to Recover From Chronic Concussion Syndrome # How to Recover From Chronic Concussion Syndrome ![Image of Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/Alina_150px.webp) Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D. • Updated on 16 July, 2024 • Medically Reviewed by [Dr. Mark Allen](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/dr-mark-allen-phd) [mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome%20&body=Check%20out%20https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome&media=https://info.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/chronic-concussion-syndrome-1.png](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome%20&body=Check%20out%20https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome&media=https://info.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/chronic-concussion-syndrome-1.png) Many people are surprised to learn that concussions can have long-term effects if left untreated. Chronic concussion syndrome is a less common term for persistent post-concussion symptoms (also known as post-concussion syndrome, or PCS). If you suffer from headaches, brain fog, vision issues, fatigue, short-term memory problems, irritability, feelings of overwhelm, or other persistent symptoms after a head injury, you might have chronic concussion syndrome. In this post, we’ll explain what causes those stubborn symptoms, along with what you can do to be rid of them: - [What chronic concussion syndrome is (and why it happens)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome#one) - [What the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome are](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome#two) - [How long chronic concussion symptoms can last](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome#three) - [How to recover from persistent concussion symptoms (treatment options)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome#four) *If you’re experiencing symptoms that won’t resolve after a **minor head injury**, you’re not alone. And you’re not crazy. 90% of our patients show symptom improvement after just one week of treatment at our center specializing in post-concussion therapy. To see if you are eligible for treatment, *[*sign up for a consultation*](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/consultation)*.* ## What Is Chronic Concussion Syndrome (Persistent Post-concussive Symptoms)? ![Chronic concussion syndrome can happen to anyone who experienced a concussion. ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(5).jpg?width=1000&height=445&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(5).jpg) Chronic concussion syndrome (post-concussion syndrome, or PCS) can be diagnosed once you’ve experienced persistent symptoms for at least three months after sustaining a head injury. Concussions can come from jostling, whiplash, or a direct blow to the head. While any concussive event (falls, car accidents, contact sports, violence, and so forth) can result in symptoms, most people recover after one to two weeks. [Up to 30%](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30773988/) go on to develop persistent symptoms which do not go away without treatment. You do not have to experience loss of consciousness to develop serious symptoms following the initial injury, nor do you have to have sustained previous concussions. Symptoms can develop days or even weeks after the concussion. While concussions are certainly the most common way to develop chronic head injury symptoms, they aren’t the only way. You might also develop PCS after one of these closed-head injuries: - [Carbon monoxide poisoning](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/brain-damage-from-carbon-monoxide-poisoning-nate-story) - [Transient ischemic attack (TIA)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/after-effects-of-transient-ischemic-attack) - [Chemical exposure](https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/full/10.1289/ehp.1002529) - [Certain viral or bacterial illnesses](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/viral-encephalitis-long-term-effects-on-the-brain) - [Surgery](https://academic.oup.com/bmb/article/106/1/161/320427?login=true) - And more. What all of these injuries have in common is a change in [neurovascular coupling](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/neurovascular-coupling) (NVC). Neurovascular coupling is the dynamic relationship between neurons and the blood vessels that supply them. After a concussion, your immune system causes [inflammation](https://n.neurology.org/content/93/5/e526.long) around the injury. The affected parts of your brain experience a temporary breakdown of tiny structures in and around those cells. The result is dysfunctional NVC: a mismatch between how much oxygen your neurons need at a given time and what’s delivered in that moment. When those cells don’t receive what they need, they may not be able to complete the tasks assigned to them (such as encoding a new memory, filtering out unnecessary sound and noise, and so forth). While your brain might be able to complete the task by using other neural pathways, these pathways will be less efficient and tire you out more quickly. In patients suffering from persistent symptoms, dysfunctional neurovascular coupling causes [hypoactive brain regions](https://www.longdom.org/open-access/discovery-of-therapytargeting-biomarkers-for-postconcussionsyndrome-using-functional-neurocognitive-imaging-2168-975X-1000243.pdf) (regions that aren’t responding as much as they should to stimuli). These brain regions typically cannot heal themselves; instead, it takes an intentional therapeutic approach to restore healthier neurovascular signaling pathways. If NVC dysfunction seems confusing to you, conceptualize it as road traffic. A healthy brain would distribute the “traffic” — i.e., the signaling and blood flow dynamics needed for a task such as reading — equally along existing pathways. NVC dysfunction is like getting stuck in a traffic jam or taking a frontage road instead of the highway. It’s inefficient and requires more fuel to get to the same place. Some symptoms of PCS are related to *which* brain regions were affected by your brain injury. For example, if you have poor neurovascular function in your superior frontal gyrus, you might struggle with executive function (decision making, planning, etc.). But some symptoms come from the overall effect of neurovascular coupling abnormalities on the brain. NVC dysfunction causes [post-injury neural fatigue](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/neural-fatigue-after-brain-injury-tbi) that can lead to irritability, headaches, brain fog, and more. ### Other Causes of Chronic Post-concussion Symptoms While neurovascular coupling dysfunction is the most common culprit, chronic symptoms following a concussion often stem from a combination of secondary conditions. The **autonomic nervous system (ANS)** can become dysfunctional after a brain injury. It controls or influences most organ systems in the body, governing processes such as your heart rate, blood pressure, digestion speed, body temperature, pupillary response, and more. [Widespread neurological dysfunction following brain trauma could indicate ANS dysfunction. ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-autonomic-dysfunction-dysautonomia)Common symptoms of ANS dysfunction are listed in the following section.   ![How to Recover from Chronic Concussion Syndrome (7)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(7).jpg?width=552&height=419&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(7).jpg) Brain regions critical for proper **hormone regulation** — such as the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus — can be injured by mild or severe traumatic brain injury as well. Patients with chronic concussion symptoms should visit an endocrinologist or other doctor able to diagnose and treat [post-injury hormone dysfunction](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-traumatic-brain-injury-hormone-dysregulation). **Vision functions **[can be affected](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11940-002-0027-z) by head trauma as well. Vision dysfunction often requires vision therapy to correct. In the meantime, [post-concussion vision problems](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/vision-problems-after-concussion) can be responsible for a host of symptoms, from headaches to difficulty reading to feeling overwhelmed while grocery shopping. Some patients also experience changes in **vestibular function** following a head injury. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, communicates closely with the visual system, the body (proprioceptive system), and the brain to determine your orientation in space. Concussions can disrupt communication, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, nausea with motion, vomiting, and sleep disturbances. Fortunately, [post-concussion vestibular therapy](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/vestibular-therapy-for-concussion-symptoms) is often effective in resolving these symptoms. ## Which Concussion Symptoms Can Become Chronic? ![How to Recover from Chronic Concussion Syndrome (8)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(8).jpg?width=552&height=414&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(8).jpg) While the exact numbers change with time, we see a consistent pattern in our patients who suffer from chronic symptoms following a minor head injury. Changes in emotional regulation and mental health are the most common, followed by brain fog, difficulty focusing, headaches, and short-term memory problems. But the total number of symptoms that you *could *experience goes far beyond that list, especially when you consider the symptoms of post-concussion autonomic dysfunction listed in this chart:![How to Recover from Chronic Concussion Syndrome (1)-1](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(1)-1.jpg?width=552&height=582&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(1)-1.jpg) For in-depth discussions on what causes common physical and cognitive symptoms after a concussion and how to resolve them, please see the following posts: - [Post-traumatic headaches](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/concussion-headaches-and-post-concussion-headaches) - [Functional vision problems](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/vision-problems-after-concussion) and [light sensitivity](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/light-sensitivity-causes-and-concussion-deep-dive) - [Post-concussion sleep disturbances](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-sleep-what-to-do) - [Post-concussion fatigue](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-extreme-fatigue-how-to-recover) - [Difficulty exercising post-concussion](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/exercise-after-a-concussion) - [Brain fog and PCS](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-brain-fog-months-later) - [Post-concussion syndrome nausea](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-nausea-what-to-do) - [Difficulty concentrating, impulsiveness, and attention-deficit disorder](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/concussions-and-attention-deficit-disorder) - [Blood pressure changes and POTS](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/pots-and-concussion-blood-pressure-changes) - [Heart rate changes, palpitations, and more](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/concussion-heart-rate-increase-palpitations-and-variability) - [Gastrointestinal symptoms](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/concussion-loss-of-appetite-and-other-stomach-problems) - [Intolerance of caffeine or alcohol](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/alcohol-caffeine-concussion-recovery) - [Post-concussion neck pain](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-neck-pain/) - [Post-concussion depression](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/depression-after-concussion-and-post-concussion-syndrome) - [Post-concussion anxiety](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/long-term-anxiety-after-concussion) - [Post traumatic stress disorder after a head injury](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/concussion-ptsd-post-traumatic-stress-disorder) - [Personality changes after a concussion](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/personality-changes-after-a-brain-injury-or-concussion) - [Memory loss, short-term memory problems, and long-term memory problems](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/concussion-memory-loss-patient-stories) ## How Long Do Chronic Concussion Symptoms Last *![How to Recover from Chronic Concussion Syndrome (2)-1](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(2)-1.jpg?width=552&height=368&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(2)-1.jpg)Sam Pembleton (pictured above in red) suffered from chronic concussion symptoms for five years after getting hit in the head with a soccer ball.* Chronic concussion symptoms can last for years until they’re treated properly. [One study](https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/51/12/935.abstract) found that just 27% of post-concussion syndrome patients meeting diagnostic criteria at three months post-injury made a full recovery. In [this study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28459953) of wartime concussive injuries, 72% of study participants experienced a worsening of their symptoms after five years. But not all news on long-term recovery from mild TBI is grim: We’ve found **no difference in recovery rates** for our patients based on their age or the length of time passed since their injury. On average, our patients report a 60% improvement in their symptoms after one week of treatment in our clinic. Our [follow-up research](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/our-research) confirmed that they continue to improve at home after treatment. *Further reading: *[*Recovering from **post-concussion syndrome*](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/recovering-from-post-concussion-syndrome) and [*How to handle **sport-related concussion** recovery*](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/sports-concussions-physical-mental-and-emotional-recovery) Ultimately, once you’ve developed chronic symptoms, **how long your symptoms last depends on the quality of treatment you receive.** Many PCS patients have not received any therapy for their symptoms. Some have been given medications to manage symptoms (but these meds don’t resolve the root issue). And those who have had some treatment often have not gone through multidisciplinary treatment programs that were personalized for their needs. The therapy might not have been at the right pace or intensity to correct neurovascular coupling dysfunction. [One of our patients, Sam Pembleton, received treatment at all of the sports medicine and concussion clinics she could find in Ontario with no real symptom improvement](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/soccer-concussion-symptoms-sam-pembleton-recovery). She even flew to a renowned clinic in Boston, but they sent her home because she wasn’t responding to treatment. She suffered from persistent post-concussion symptoms for five years before she came to Cognitive FX. After treatment at our clinic, she was able to work, finish school, go out with friends, and simply enjoy life again. One of our other patients, Myrthe van Boon, was told by her neurologist that [she would never recover from her skiing head injury](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/concussion-from-skiing-recovery-myrthe). But she began to improve partway through her treatment week at Cognitive FX. Now, she’s able to laugh, dance, and care for her daughters as a healthy mom. Post-concussion syndrome is not one-size-fits-all. The brain regions affected by your brain injury are not necessarily the same as the regions that were damaged in someone else. But unlike Cognitive FX, most treatment facilities don’t have the brain imaging technology to determine precisely how and where the patient experienced neurotrauma. That’s why providing each patient with a [functional neurocognitive imaging scan (fNCI)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/about-fnci) is so important to our work. Using the scan (along with evaluations of ANS, vision, vestibular, and brain stem function), we can determine where brain function was negatively impacted and in what way. We can then tailor your treatment regimen accordingly, which is why patients like Sam and Myrthe, who tried many different doctors, were able to make progress under our care, but not elsewhere. *Further reading: *[*Can a **CT scan** show **brain damage** from **post-concussion syndrome**?*](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/do-ct-scans-show-concussions-and-pcs) ## How to Recover From Chronic Concussion Syndrome ![How to Recover from Chronic Concussion Syndrome (4)-1](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(4)-1.jpg?width=552&height=306&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(4)-1.jpg) At Cognitive FX, we offer treatment of post-concussion syndrome. We tackle [neurovascular coupling ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/neurovascular-coupling)dysfunction, autonomic dysfunction, vision issues, and vestibular problems. Because treatment often results in better sleep, symptoms stemming from poor sleep quality often improve as well. ### How We Evaluate Chronic Concussion Patients All patients receive a [functional Neurocognitive Imaging (fNCI)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/about-fnci) scan before and after treatment. fNCI is a type of functional MRI that looks at blood flow dynamics throughout 56 regions of the brain while the patient performs a series of standardized cognitive tasks. We also evaluate connections between imaged brain regions. We can infer cognitive impairment in brain regions involved in specific tasks, such as visual-spatial mapping, attention shifting, verbal working memory, name retrieval, and multitasking. The following is an example scan from a patient who experienced NVC dysfunction after an acquired brain injury: ![Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery Can You Recover from a TBI 5](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Traumatic%20Brain%20Injury%20Recovery%20Can%20You%20Recover%20from%20a%20TBI%205.jpg?width=552&height=364&name=Traumatic%20Brain%20Injury%20Recovery%20Can%20You%20Recover%20from%20a%20TBI%205.jpg) Scores in red or yellow generally indicate a need for rehabilitation. These results give us a clear idea of which brain regions are struggling. In addition, we can evaluate which brain regions have healthy communication patterns (are or are not synchronized with each other as expected) or unhealthy communication patterns (are more or less active than they should be relative to certain other regions).  ![image9 (1)-2](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image9%20(1)-2.jpg?width=552&height=256&name=image9%20(1)-2.jpg) For example, the scan above shows the right anterior cingulate cortex (rACC, in blue) as underactive. rACC [plays a key part](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3109123/) in sustained attention and is involved in other types of attention as well. Knowing that, the therapists could include sustained attention exercises for the patient during treatment. Some patients will have localized dysfunction (as shown above) and others will have widespread dysfunction throughout the brain. Both can cause the same degree of symptoms. Knowing the cause helps us to treat the condition more accurately. In addition, we evaluate all patients for their vision, ANS, and vestibular function, along with neuropsychological testing and evaluation of reaction times. Some concussion symptoms stem from deficits in these areas and not just from NVC dysfunction. Therefore, conducting these additional evaluations is key to treating the whole person. We then tailor your treatment regimen according to your ability and needs. ### What Treatment Involves ![Patient performing a treatment exercise. ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20Do%20You%20Know%20If%20You%20Have%20a%20Concussion%20(5).jpg?width=1999&height=1333&name=How%20Do%20You%20Know%20If%20You%20Have%20a%20Concussion%20(5).jpg) Treatment for [persistent post-concussion syndrome](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-and-post-concussion-symptoms-pcs) involves a three-step cycle that repeats: Prepare, Activate, and Recover. #### Prepare![Patient using a cardio machine. ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(1).jpg?width=1999&height=1333&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(1).jpg) Every day includes supervised cardiovascular exercise followed by controlled breathing. Short bursts of cardio followed by breathing decrease sympathetic nervous system dominance, helping the ANS to function better as a whole. Cardio also improves blood flow in the brain and [releases](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33172145/) neurochemicals that make it easier for the brain to benefit from therapy. For example, exercise releases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which [improves](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32547460/) cognitive flexibility and [has been shown](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30036102/) to improve therapy outcomes in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) patients. If you have exercise intolerance, your therapists will teach you how to exercise at the sub-symptom threshold. [Post-injury exercise is key for brain health and recovery.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/brain-injury-exercise) #### Activate ![How to Recover from Chronic Concussion Syndrome (6)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(6).jpg?width=248&height=372&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(6).jpg)Therapy at Cognitive FX is multidisciplinary. You’ll work with a rotation of therapists who are experts in brain injury rehabilitation. Some of the therapies you may receive include… - [Neuromuscular and physical therapy](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/physical-therapy-for-post-concussion-syndrome) - Sensorimotor therapy  - Occupational therapy - Neurointegration therapy - [Cognitive therapy](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/cognitive-therapy-for-brain-injury) - Vision therapy - Vestibular therapy - Psychotherapy - And more.  Some therapies combine disciplines for greater effect. For example, you might balance on a Bosu board (exercising your vestibular system and the part of the brain governing balance) while tossing color-coded tennis balls back and forth (hand-eye coordination and reflex response) and adding or subtracting from a running tally based on which ball you caught (memory, problem-solving, attention, etc.). Or, during neurointegration therapy, you might draw the mirror image of a given pattern while the therapist asks you simple questions. These therapies are designed to engage your brain’s natural ability for recovery (neuroplasticity) to help restore healthy neurovascular communication throughout the brain. *Further reading: *[*Neuroplasticity therapy for brain injury recovery*](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/neuroplasticity-treatment-for-concussions) #### Recover ![How to Recover from Chronic Concussion Syndrome (3)-1](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(3)-1.jpg?width=552&height=246&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(3)-1.jpg) Taking moments to let your brain rest is imperative if you are to do so much therapy in one day. Some examples of scheduled brain breaks include… - **Neuromuscular massage.** Therapists massage the neck and shoulders to relieve chronic pain and tension, relax muscles involved in vision, improve circulation, and alleviate headache pain. - **Brainwaves.** The [binaural beats app](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brain-wave-35-binaural-series/id307219387) we use produces two frequencies that are very close together. If you listen to a different frequency in each ear, your brain will average them together to produce one frequency. We set the parameters so that the frequency your brain creates is the same frequency you would experience through meditation. This frequency will propagate in your brain waves as you listen. As a result, you gain some of the restorative benefits of meditation without being an expert in meditation. - **Mindfulness.** Patients learn mindfulness techniques during their time at the clinic.  ## What Comes Next for Recovery ![Women drinking water after outdoor exercise. ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(2).jpg?width=1000&height=445&name=How%20to%20Recover%20from%20Chronic%20Concussion%20Syndrome%20(2).jpg) All of our patients receive a take-home packet with brain exercises and recommendations for continued therapy at home. If you need a referral to a specialist in your area, our clinicians will discuss that as well. Four key elements of continued recovery are consistent exercise, a brain-healthy diet, good sleep habits, and patience. You may find these resources helpful in the process: - [How to exercise after a concussion](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/exercise-after-a-concussion) - [Nutrition for PCS recovery](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/nutrition-for-post-concussion-syndrome) - [How to sleep with PCS](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-sleep-what-to-do) - [Natural remedies for PCS symptoms](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/natural-remedies-for-post-concussion-syndrome) One aspect of recovery we do not address is medications. There is no medicine clinically proven to treat post-concussion syndrome. Many well-intentioned health care providers prescribe meds to alleviate specific symptoms, such as antidepressants for mood changes or sleep problems and anti-seizure meds for headaches. These medications can’t address the underlying problem (NVC, autonomic issues, etc.) and so are only temporary fixes, if they help at all. That’s one of the reasons therapy is so important — medications simply aren’t enough to cause a full recovery for most patients. Due to side effects, post-injury metabolic changes, and other risk factors, some medications can actually cause worse symptoms than the original injury. Oftentimes, these meds don’t help at all and are even more dangerous for pediatric patients because adolescents metabolize medication differently than adults do. For an in-depth discussion of how and when medication for PCS is helpful, along with when it’s not, read our post on [medication for post-concussion syndrome](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/medication-for-concussion-and-post-concussion-syndrome). *On average, our patients’ symptoms improve by 60% after just one week of treatment at our center specializing in neuroplasticity-based therapy. To see if you are eligible for treatment, *[*sign up for a consultation*](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/get-started)*.* --- ![Image of Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Alina_150px.webp?height=150&name=Alina_150px.webp) ### About the author [Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd) Alina Fong, Ph.D. is a clinical neuropsychologist and the Clinical Director and Co-Founder of Cognitive FX. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Neuropsychology with an emphasis in Neuroimaging from Brigham Young University, where she received the American Psychological Association Division 40 Graduate Student Research Award for her neuroimaging research. Dr. Fong has over 17 years of clinical experience treating traumatic brain injury, beginning with her work at the VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System and Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, where she directed the neurotrauma rehabilitation and sports concussion clinics. She developed the EPIC Treatment protocol and has personally overseen treatment for nearly 8,000 brain injury patients, including professional athletes from the NFL, NHL, and Olympics. She serves as Vice President of the Brain Injury Alliance of Utah, sits on the board of the United States Brain Injury Alliance, and advises PINK Concussions. Dr. Fong has authored peer-reviewed research on functional MRI and concussion treatment and has presented at over 60 medical conferences, including the Federal Interagency Conference on TBI and the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine. [Follow me on my website ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/dr-alina-k-fong-phd) ## Related Posts ![When Does a Concussion Become Post-Concussion Syndrome](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/When%20Does%20a%20Concussion%20Become%20Post-Concussion%20Syndrome.png?height=175&name=When%20Does%20a%20Concussion%20Become%20Post-Concussion%20Syndrome.png) ### When Does a Concussion Become Post-Concussion Syndrome? | Cognitive FX ![Image of Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Alina_150px.webp?height=70&name=Alina_150px.webp) [Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd) A concussion is defined as “*the result of the forceful motion of the head or impact causing a brief change in mental status (confusion, disorientation, or memory loss), with or without a loss of...* [Read the full article ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/when-does-a-concussion-become-post-concussion-syndrome) ![Shifting from Post-Concussion Syndrome to Post-Concussion Symptoms](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Shifting%20from%20Post-Concussion%20Syndrome%20to%20Post-Concussion%20Symptoms.png?height=175&name=Shifting%20from%20Post-Concussion%20Syndrome%20to%20Post-Concussion%20Symptoms.png) ### Post-Concussion Syndrome to Post-Concussion Symptoms | Cognitive FX ![Image of Dr. Christiane Paney, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Christiane-Paney-552951-edited.jpg?height=70&name=Christiane-Paney-552951-edited.jpg) [Dr. Christiane Paney, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd) What comes to mind when you think of the word “syndrome?” Many commonly known syndromes are often associated with genetic factors or medical diseases that are often lifelong or have lasting effects.... [Read the full article ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/shifting-from-post-concussion-syndrome-to-post-concussion-symptoms) ![Medication for Post-Concussion Syndrome: Does It Work?](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/medication-for-concussion-and-post-concussion-syndrome.png?height=175&name=medication-for-concussion-and-post-concussion-syndrome.png) ### Medication for Post-Concussion Syndrome: Does It Work? ![Image of Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Alina_150px.webp?height=70&name=Alina_150px.webp) [Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd) Many doctors aren’t aware that concussions can cause long-lasting symptoms, a condition commonly called [post-concussion syndrome (PCS)](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-and-post-concussion-symptoms-pcs). As a result, they treat common symptoms rather than the... [Read the full article ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/medication-for-concussion-and-post-concussion-syndrome) ![Flying with a Concussion: How to Travel Safely and Minimize Symptoms](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/flying-with-concussion-or-post-concussion-syndrome.jpg?height=175&name=flying-with-concussion-or-post-concussion-syndrome.jpg) ### Flying with a Concussion | Cognitive FX ![Image of Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Alina_150px.webp?height=70&name=Alina_150px.webp) [Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd) *[****Note:**** This article was written during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We recommend that you check the *[*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention*](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel)* (CDC) for travel advisories and health...* [Read the full article ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/flying-with-concussion-or-post-concussion-syndrome) ![Vision Problems After a Concussion: Symptoms & Treatment](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/vision-problems-after-concussion.png?height=175&name=vision-problems-after-concussion.png) ### Vision Problems After Concussion: Symptoms & Treatment | Cognitive FX ![Image of Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Alina_150px.webp?height=70&name=Alina_150px.webp) [Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd) **Quick Facts:** Up to 90% of traumatic brain injury patients experience some form of visual dysfunction. Vision therapy achieves success rates of 85-100% for common post-concussion vision issues like... [Read the full article ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/vision-problems-after-concussion) ![Connection Between Concussion Symptoms and Brain Function](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Connection%20Between%20Concussion%20Symptoms%20and%20Brain%20Function.png?height=175&name=Connection%20Between%20Concussion%20Symptoms%20and%20Brain%20Function.png) ### Connection Between Concussion Symptoms & Brain Function | Cognitive FX ![Image of Cognitive FX Team](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Rounded-C-R.jpg?height=70&name=Rounded-C-R.jpg) [Cognitive FX Team](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd) The brain loves taking the path of least resistance. This is true for [blood flow and also for sending the communication signals](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/what-is-neurovascular-coupling) in the brain when neurons are firing. Even a simple task requires... [Read the full article ](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/connection-between-concussion-symptoms-and-brain-function) #### Proven Results Improvement in 77% of Participants Published peer-reviewed research shows that Cognitive FX treatment leads to meaningful symptom reduction in post-concussion symptoms for 77% of study participants. Cognitive FX is the only PCS clinic with third-party validated treatment outcomes. [ READ FULL STUDY ](https://www.tvnp.nl/inhoud/tijdschrift_artikel/NP-19-2-3/Cognitive-FX-behandeling-voor-aanhoudende-klachten-na-een-hersenschudding-Observatie-van-verandering-in-functioneren) [![Main_Logo_500px](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Main_Logo_500px.png?width=257&height=78&name=Main_Logo_500px.png "Main_Logo_500px")](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com) Comprehensive Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment 280 W River Park Drive Suite 110 Provo, UT 84604 [Follow us on Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com/cognitivefx) [Follow us on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/cognitive_fx) #### Quick Links - [Blog](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog) - [Sign-Up for Free Consultation](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/start-here-paperwork-old) #### Support - [Contact Us](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/contactus) - [Patient Results](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/treatment-outcomes) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/privacypolicy) - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/terms-and-conditions) #### Solutions - [Good Fit Quiz](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/start-here-paperwork-old) - [EPIC Treatment](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/treatment) - [Post-Concussion Syndrome Information](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-and-post-concussion-symptoms-pcs) - [fNCI Brain Scan](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/about-fnci) - [Online Course](https://cognitivefx.thinkific.com/courses/headaches) #### Company - [About](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/research-history) - [Press & Media](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/media) - [Our Team](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/our-team) ### Sign Up For Our Newsletter Copyright © Cognitive FX 2024. All Rights Reserved. | [Privacy Policy](https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome#) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D.", "url" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/author/dr-alina-fong-phd" }, "dateModified" : "2024-07-16T18:34:13.916Z", "datePublished" : "2022-11-01T13:54:38.000Z", "headline" : "How to Recover From Chronic Concussion Syndrome", "image" : [ "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/chronic-concussion-syndrome-1.png" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/hubfs/Cognitive-Final-Logo-BlBlk-Med.png" }, "name" : "Cognitive FX" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "Article", "about" : { "@type" : "MedicalCondition", "name" : "" }, "audience" : { "@type" : "Audience", "audienceType" : [ "patient", "caregiver" ] }, "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "affiliation" : { "@type" : "MedicalOrganization", "name" : "Cognitive FX", "url" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com" }, "name" : "Dr. Alina Fong, Ph.D." }, "dateModified" : "16 July, 2024", "datePublished" : "2022-11-01 13:54:38", "description" : "Chronic concussion syndrome (persistent post-concussion symptom) can last for years. The good news is that symptoms often resolve with the right treatment.", "headline" : "How to Recover From Chronic Concussion Syndrome", "image" : "", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome", "@type" : [ "MedicalWebPage" ], "breadcrumb" : { "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com", "name" : "Cognitive FX Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog", "name" : "Blog Home", "position" : 2 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/chronic-concussion-syndrome", "name" : "How to Recover From Chronic Concussion Syndrome", "position" : 3 } ] }, "lastReviewed" : "1721154853921", "reviewedBy" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "" } }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "brand" : { "@type" : "Organization", "name" : "Cognitive FX", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognitive-fx-usa/", "https://www.instagram.com/cognitive_fx/", "https://twitter.com/cognitivefx", "https://www.facebook.com/cognitivefx/", "https://www.pinterest.com/cognitivefx/", "https://www.tiktok.com/@cognitivefx" ] }, "name" : "Cognitive FX", "url" : "https://www.cognitivefxusa.com" } } ```