TBI / CONCUSSION INJURIES

Concussion & traumatic brain injury (TBI) care after an accident.

OSIC’s accident-care specialists diagnose and treat all levels of brain injury with precision, compassion, and ongoing support. We have assembled a comprehensive team of brain injury specialists to address all aspects of TBI.

Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of car accidents and falls — even when symptoms seem mild at first. Sadly, most TBIs are not correctly nor accurately diagnosed. A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), but doctors know that “mild” doesn’t mean minor. The effects can linger for weeks, months or become permanent without proper care.

At ORTHOPEDIC SPINE & INJURY CENTER (OSIC), we take every head injury seriously. Our medical team provides same-day evaluations, neurological assessments, and comprehensive recovery plans to help patients heal fully — physically, cognitively, and emotionally.


Why Choose OSIC for Concussion and TBI Care

  • Accident-focused expertise: We specialize in injuries caused by crashes, falls, and impacts, not sports or workplace events.
  • Comprehensive evaluation: Neurological exams, cognitive testing, and imaging when needed.
  • Collaborative care: Our medical team includes neurologists, therapists, and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes.
  • Personalized treatment: Every plan is tailored to your symptoms, injury severity, and lifestyle.
  • Ongoing monitoring: Follow-up visits track your progress and adjust care as you heal.
  • Accessible care: Convenient clinics throughout Utah, Washington, Oregon and Idaho.

Concussion/Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

A concussion is the most common form of traumatic brain injury — often called a mild TBI. However, both concussions and more severe TBIs share the same root cause: the brain moving or shaking inside the skull after a sudden impact or jolt.

Concussion (Mild TBI)

  • Usually caused by a direct blow, whiplash, or rapid acceleration/deceleration.
  • A direct blow IS NOT REQUIRED to have a TBI.
  • May not cause loss of consciousness.
  • Symptoms can be subtle or delayed — including headaches, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, or difficulty concentrating.
  • Symptoms following TBI can vary widely and include: Physical symptoms, Emotional symptoms, Cognitive symptoms and Impaired Sleep.
  • Some victims can recover with rest and gradual return to activities, but most require focused TBI care to help alleviate symptoms and fully recover.

Moderate to Severe TBI

  • Caused by stronger impact, penetrating injuries, or prolonged unconsciousness.
  • May involve brain bleeding, swelling, or skull fractures.
  • It can lead to lasting physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges.
  • Often requires hospitalization, surgery, and long-term rehabilitation.

Key takeaway: No head injury should be dismissed. Even a “mild” concussion can have serious effects if untreated or repeated. Getting the right diagnosis and promptly initiating specialty care is the key to healing.


Recognizing the Symptoms

Symptoms can appear immediately or develop hours, days or weeks after an accident.

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Physical Signs

  • Headache or pressure in the head
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or loss of balance
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Fatigue or drowsiness

Cognitive and Emotional Changes

  • Confusion, disorientation, or difficulty concentrating
  • Memory loss surrounding the accident
  • Slowed thinking or speech
  • Mood swings, irritability, or anxiety
  • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much

Red-Flag Emergency Symptoms

Call 911 or go to the ER immediately if you or someone you’re with experiences:

  • Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Unequal pupil size
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Fainting
  • Slurred speech or worsening confusion
  • Weakness, numbness, or coordination loss
  • Persistent or worsening headache

How OSIC Diagnoses Concussions and TBIs

Diagnosing a head injury requires careful clinical evaluation, not just imaging. Many mild concussions don’t show up on scans, which is why medical expertise is crucial.

  1. Detailed patient history: How the accident occurred, what symptoms appeared, and whether there was any loss of consciousness.
  2. Neurological exam: Testing reflexes, balance, coordination, and eye movement to assess brain function.
  3. Cognitive testing: Evaluating memory, focus, and problem-solving ability.
  4. Imaging (if needed): CT or MRI scans for suspected bleeding, swelling, or skull fractures.
  5. Symptom tracking: Regular follow-ups to monitor recovery and identify post-concussion symptoms early.

Treatment and Recovery

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the specific symptoms. OSIC provides full-spectrum care, from initial stabilization to long-term rehabilitation and support.

For Concussions/TBI:

  • Relative rest: Limit physical exertion and limit screen time or activities that worsen symptoms.
  • Gradual return to activity: A structured, doctor-guided plan for returning to school, work, or exercise.
  • Symptom management: Medication and treatments for headaches, nausea, or sleep problems as needed.
  • Specialized therapy:
    • Vestibular therapy for dizziness and balance problems.
    • Cognitive therapy for memory and focus challenges.
    • Vision therapy for eye strain or blurred vision.
    • Behavioral therapy for emotional or stress-related symptoms.

Long-Term Recovery and Support

Healing from a brain injury doesn’t always end when symptoms fade. OSIC helps patients manage recovery long-term — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Our ongoing care may include:

  • Regular neurological check-ins to monitor progress.
  • Cognitive and physical therapy to restore function and endurance.
  • Stress and anxiety management support.
  • Nutrition and Sleep therapies
  • Family education to help loved ones understand the recovery process.
  • Coordination with specialists for chronic post-concussion or neurological symptoms.

Long-term concerns may include:

  • Increased risk of depression, anxiety, or chronic headaches.
  • Cognitive or memory difficulties that develop over time.
  • Higher susceptibility to future concussions or neurological conditions.

Our goal is not only to treat the injury but also to help patients reclaim confidence, independence, and peace of mind.


When to Call OSIC

If you or someone you love is showing symptoms of concussion or TBI after an accident — even if they seem minor — get checked as soon as possible.

Early evaluation leads to better outcomes and faster recovery.

Call ORTHOPEDIC SPINE & INJURY CENTER (OSIC) today to schedule a same-day appointment in Utah, Washington State, or Idaho.

Call Now or Request an Appointment Online

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

As soon as possible. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Early evaluation helps ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and documentation for your legal or insurance case.

Absolutely. It’s common for pain and stiffness to develop later. Our doctors can assess delayed symptoms and begin appropriate treatment right away.

We provide advanced diagnostics, including X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and nerve testing, to accurately identify the source of your pain.

Other questions?
Call us at 801-797-8000 for answers.

TESTIMONIALS

“Dr. Davidson did an amazing job on my shoulder surgery. His assistants and entire staff were so great to work with. After dealing with pain for 5 months, I am so thankful that I was referred to this office. I highly recommend OSIC!!!”

Tiffiny

“The team is very friendly and professional. From the front desk to the people in the back every experience has been positive. I would highly suggest having your procedures done by Dr Davidson and the staff here. And special shout out to Karla at the front desk for making every visit a pleasure.”

Brian

“This office was great, I’m feeling so much better than when I first started. Thanks to everyone.”

Timothy

“The medical providers and assistants were incredibly knowledgeable and kind. Note worthy was provider Paul MacGuinnus and J. King both A+.

I was very impressed with their knowledge, skill and kindness.

My medical visits were actually fun and I got great results (I had multiple injuries from an accident). I highly recommend this medical office! An additional point is the check-in and scheduling team were also excellent and friendly. A+ overall. Very thankful!”

Andy

“I am very pleased with the services and treatment I received from WOASIC. It’s unfortunate that I was involved in an accident but with them I felt better. Thank you to all.”

Tish

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