Patient Story
Concussion Care
Our Approach to Concussion Care
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from a blow to the head or force to the body that moves the head rapidly, resulting in changes to how the brain functions. Research tells us that the sooner a person is evaluated by a concussion specialist, the sooner they recover. A skilled specialist can provide patients with proper education, recommendations for lifestyle adjustments, and treatment that can make a significant difference in the recovery process.
What We Do
- Exertional therapy
- Neurological examination
- Neuropsychological evaluation
- Ophthalmology and optometry referrals
- Physical therapy for related back and neck injuries
- Vestibular rehabilitation
Unmatched Expertise in Concussion Management
For managing concussions, no other program in the Midwest can match the expertise of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush (MOR). Our team of sports medicine physicians, physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, neurologists, neuropsychologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, physical therapists, and athletic trainers is specially trained to address the specific needs of concussion patients. We have years of experience in properly diagnosing and treating these injuries in athletes (including youth and professional athletes) and non-athletes alike.
An Evidence-Based Treatment Plan, Designed for You
MOR clinicians utilize the newest technology, evidence-based therapies, and active rehabilitation methods to address both the acute injury and persistent post-concussion symptoms, helping patients return to their active lifestyles as quickly and comfortably as possible. Visit our Pathway to Recovery page to learn more about the patient journey.
For information on the signs and symptoms of concussions, as well as answers to frequently asked questions, visit our Concussion Diagnosis & Management page.
Experienced Leadership in Concussion Assessment and Care
Elizabeth M. Pieroth, PsyD, ABPP is a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist and the director of the Concussion Program at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush and Rush University Medical Center. She is a leader in the field of concussion assessment and presents nationally and internationally on the care of patients with concussions. Dr. Pieroth brings 20+ years of experience to this role and is responsible for the care of more professional athletes/teams than any other provider in the country.
Additionally, Dr. Pieroth sits on numerous local and national boards that study concussions/traumatic brain injury in sports. Her philosophy of care is focused on listening to patients to truly understand their symptoms so an individualized treatment plan can be designed.
Ready to See a Concussion Care Specialist?
Schedule an appointment today and get back to your best.
Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Concussion symptoms can include headache, dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, confusion, memory trouble, and changes in sleep or mood — not all concussions involve loss of consciousness. Symptoms may appear right away or hours to days after the impact. Any suspected concussion should be evaluated before returning to sport, school, or work.
Most concussions resolve within 1 to 4 weeks with appropriate rest and a graded return to activity. Some patients experience prolonged symptoms — known as post-concussion syndrome — and benefit from structured rehabilitation, including vestibular therapy, vision therapy, or exercise-based protocols. Our concussion specialists create individualized recovery plans based on each patient's symptoms.
Return to play follows a stepwise protocol: symptom resolution at rest, then light aerobic exercise, sport-specific drills, non-contact practice, full-contact practice, and finally game play. Progression depends on remaining symptom-free at each step. Clearance is provided by a qualified medical professional — often in coordination with athletic trainers and school officials.
During the acute phase, patients are usually advised to avoid driving and to modify school or work demands, including screen time, bright lights, and cognitive workload. A "return-to-learn" plan with academic accommodations often runs alongside the return-to-play plan. Our team communicates with schools and employers to support a safe reintegration.
Baseline testing measures an athlete's cognitive function, balance, and reaction time before the season starts, so that post-injury results can be compared to the athlete's own baseline. It is a tool, not a diagnosis, and supports return-to-play decisions. Baseline testing is offered at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush for teams and individual athletes.
Yes. Our concussion care program treats concussions from any cause — falls, motor vehicle collisions, work injuries, and sports — in both children and adults. Evaluation and rehabilitation plans are tailored to each patient's age, activity, and daily demands.