IBJI Sports Neurology (Concussions)
What is a Sports Neurologist?
Sports Neurologists are physicians specifically trained in the diagnosis and management of neurological conditions in athletes, including concussion. In addition to training in general neurology, Sports Neurologists have completed a fellowship focused on athlete brain and neurological health.
When Should You See a Sports Neurologist?
Concussion is a brain injury, and should be evaluated by a specialist who is trained to diagnose and manage disorders of the brain. While we are happy to evaluate patients at any stage of the injury, we have found that seeing the athlete sooner is beneficial for all involved.
In addition to concussion, Sports Neurologists manage many other neurological conditions in athletes. Listed below are common conditions treated by IBJI Sports Neurology:
- Concussion
- Post-Concussion Syndrome
- Effects of Brain Trauma
- Anxiety or Depression
- Cognitive concerns (memory, attention, concentration etc)
- Migraine and other Headaches
- Neuropathy
- Seizure/Epilepsy
- Sleep Problems
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Stingers or nerve injuries
- Stroke
If you have a question regarding the appropriateness of a visit or referral, please call our office at 847-682-8463 for assistance.
What else do Sports Neurologists do?
Sports Neurologists are also trained to care for athletes in their natural environment. The importance of having a Sports Neurologist on the sideline is becoming rapidly apparent and IBJI Sports Neurology wants to help the athletic community by leveling the playing field regarding player safety. To learn more about sideline coverage, contact us today at 847-682-8463.
Sports Neurology Specialists at IBJI
The IBJI Sports Neurology team is passionate about increasing head trauma-awareness and improving player safety. The immediate effects and possible long-term consequences of head impacts should not be taken lightly. This is why we are always looking beyond the immediate injury and into the future, with a focus on long-term brain health.
In order to best optimize athlete brain health, the following may be appropriate for you or your athlete: pre-season neurological evaluation, regular neurological checkups to supervise your brain health, and additional tests or data, which may help to fully evaluate your condition. IBJI wants you on the field as long as possible. Think smart, play smart and trust us as your neurology specialist in the Chicagoland area.
Baseline Concussion Testing Available at IBJI
To help address head injuries occurring in youth sports, IBJI offers several options of pre-participation baseline screenings.
- Headache or “pressure” in the head
- Nausea or repeated vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Concentration or memory problems
- Confusion
- Does not “feel right” or is “feeling down.”
- Appears dazed or stunned
- Confusion about a task
- Forgets an instruction
- Unsure of game, score, or opponent
- Moves clumsily
- Answers questions slower than normal
- Loss of consciousness
- Mood, behavior, or personality changes
- Can’t recall events prior to hit
- Can’t recall events after hit
Why Choose IBJI?
100+ physicians & surgeons; expertise ranging from orthopedics and sports medicine to pain management and more.
Plus three convenient OrthoAccess Immediate Care locations offering extended evening and weekend hours.
Offering orthopedic rehabilitation, pain management, onsite diagnostics, wellness, imaging and laboratory services.