Concussions in children are more common than most parents realize. Whether your child plays sports, rides a bike, or simply falls while playing, even a mild head injury should never be taken lightly. Early diagnosis and the right treatment can prevent long-term complications and ensure a full recovery.
If you’re searching for “pediatric concussion treatment near me” in New Jersey, the New Jersey Pediatric Neuroscience Institute (NJPNI) offers specialized care tailored to children and adolescents. This guide will help you understand when to seek help, what signs to look for, and how expert pediatric neurologists can support your child’s recovery.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow, bump, or jolt to the head. It temporarily affects brain function - impacting memory, coordination, balance, and concentration.
In children, concussions may not always show immediate or obvious symptoms, which is why medical evaluation is critical even after seemingly minor head injuries.
Common causes include:
- Sports injuries (football, soccer, basketball, cheerleading)
- Falls on playgrounds or at home
- Bicycle or scooter accidents
- Motor vehicle collisions
Common Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion in Children
Concussion symptoms can vary widely depending on the child’s age and the severity of the injury. Some appear right away, while others develop hours or even days later.
Physical symptoms:
- Headache or “pressure” in the head
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Blurred or double vision
Cognitive symptoms:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Trouble concentrating or remembering
- Feeling mentally “foggy”
- Slowed reaction time
Emotional and behavioral symptoms:
- Irritability or mood swings
- Unusual sadness or anxiety
- Increased tiredness or trouble sleeping
If your child loses consciousness, even briefly, or exhibits worsening symptoms like persistent vomiting, severe headache, or difficulty waking up, seek emergency medical care immediately.
When to See a Specialist
Many mild concussions resolve on their own with proper rest and care, but some require specialized evaluation - especially in children and teens whose brains are still developing.
You should schedule an appointment with a pediatric concussion specialist if:
- Symptoms persist for more than a few days.
- Your child has had multiple concussions.
- There are concerns about memory, attention, or school performance after the injury.
- Your pediatrician recommends a neurological assessment.
At NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute, board-certified pediatric neurologists have extensive experience diagnosing and managing concussions in kids. They understand how concussions uniquely affect children’s cognitive development and school readiness.
The Importance of Specialized Pediatric Concussion Care
Children are not just “small adults.” Their brains are still growing, and concussion recovery requires specialized expertise. Pediatric neurologists can evaluate subtle neurological changes that may not appear in a routine physical exam.
At NJPNI, concussion treatment focuses on:
- Accurate diagnosis: Using advanced imaging and neurological tests.
- Personalized care plans: Adjusted to the child’s age, symptoms, and activity level.
- Comprehensive management: Including physical, cognitive, and emotional support.
This multi-disciplinary approach ensures your child’s full recovery - physically, mentally, and academically.
Diagnosis: How Specialists Evaluate a Concussion
The first step in managing a concussion is a thorough evaluation by a pediatric specialist.
- Medical History and Symptom Assessment
Your specialist will ask detailed questions about how the injury occurred, symptoms experienced, and any previous head injuries. - Neurological Examination
This includes testing balance, reflexes, memory, coordination, and eye movements to assess brain function. - Imaging Tests (if needed)
While most concussions don’t require CT or MRI scans, imaging may be recommended if symptoms are severe or worsening - to rule out bleeding or structural damage. - Cognitive Testing
Neuropsychological assessments may be used to evaluate thinking, attention, and memory - especially in older children and student-athletes.
Treatment: How Pediatric Specialists Manage Concussions
The cornerstone of concussion treatment is rest and gradual recovery. At NJPNI, pediatric concussion management focuses on a step-by-step recovery plan designed to support both physical and cognitive healing.
1. Physical Rest
- Avoid strenuous activity or sports until cleared by a doctor.
- Limit rough play or activities that could risk another head impact.
2. Cognitive Rest
- Reduce screen time, video games, and schoolwork during the initial recovery phase.
- Gradually reintroduce learning activities as symptoms improve.
3. Return-to-Learn Program
NJPNI specialists collaborate with schools to create a Return-to-Learn plan - allowing students to resume academic activities safely with necessary adjustments like shorter school days or reduced homework.
4. Return-to-Play Program
For young athletes, returning to sports too soon increases the risk of another concussion. NJPNI follows a stepwise Return-to-Play protocol, ensuring the child is symptom-free and neurologically cleared before resuming athletic activity.
5. Vestibular and Vision Therapy
If dizziness, balance problems, or visual disturbances persist, specialized therapy may be recommended to retrain the brain’s coordination and eye movement functions.
6. Emotional Support
Children recovering from a concussion may experience frustration, mood changes, or anxiety. NJPNI’s multidisciplinary team provides psychological support to promote emotional well-being throughout recovery.
What Happens If a Concussion Is Left Untreated?
Untreated or mismanaged concussions can lead to prolonged symptoms - a condition known as post-concussion syndrome. This can include chronic headaches, difficulty concentrating, sleep problems, and mood changes.
In rare cases, a second concussion before full recovery (known as second impact syndrome) can cause severe brain injury. That’s why early evaluation by a pediatric concussion specialist is essential.
Preventing Concussions in Children
While not all head injuries can be avoided, certain steps can significantly reduce the risk:
- Ensure your child wears properly fitted helmets during sports, biking, or skating.
- Teach safe playing techniques and sportsmanship.
- Make home environments safer - use gates on stairs, and keep floors free from tripping hazards.
- Encourage open communication so your child reports any head injury or symptoms right away.
Why Choose NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute for Concussion Care
At NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute your child’s brain health is our top priority. Our board-certified pediatric neurologists and concussion specialists provide compassionate, comprehensive care for children of all ages.
What sets NJPNI apart:
- Specialized expertise in pediatric brain injuries and neurology
- State-of-the-art diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatment
- Multidisciplinary collaboration with therapists, psychologists, and educators
- Personalized recovery and follow-up programs
- Convenient New Jersey locations for families seeking “concussion treatment near me”
From initial diagnosis to complete recovery, NJPNI supports families every step of the way - ensuring your child can safely return to school, sports, and daily life.
When in Doubt, Get It Checked
Even if your child seems “fine” after a head injury, subtle symptoms may develop later. Early intervention from a pediatric specialist ensures proper healing and helps prevent long-term issues.
If you’re searching for “pediatric concussion treatment near me” in New Jersey, contact NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute for expert evaluation and personalized care.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If your child has suffered a concussion or head injury, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with the experts at NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute for specialized pediatric concussion care.
