Concussion Management for Athletes in La Jolla: Dr. Nisreen’s Comprehensive Approach

In the high-performance world of sports, athletes are often at a heightened risk of concussions. Without proper management, these head injuries can have lasting effects, impacting both athletic performance and overall quality of life. At Brain Health D.C. in La Jolla, Dr. Nisreen Tayebjee offers an integrative approach to concussion management that emphasizes healing, neurorehabilitation, and optimized recovery.

Understanding Concussions and the Importance of Management

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by an impact to the head or body that shakes the brain within the skull. For athletes, concussions are most commonly seen in contact sports like football, soccer, and basketball but can occur in any athletic activity. While symptoms of a concussion can vary, they often include:

• Headache and dizziness
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
• Difficulty concentrating and memory issues
• Mood changes, such as irritability or depression
• Nausea and fatigue

Concussion symptoms don’t always show up immediately and can take hours or even days to fully develop. When left unmanaged, the risk of developing complications like Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) or subsequent concussions increases.

Dr. Nisreen’s Approach to Concussion Management for Athletes

With a background in functional neurology and sports rehabilitation, Dr. Nisreen’s approach is both personalized and data-driven, prioritizing each athlete’s unique needs and sport-specific goals. Here’s how she manages concussion care:

1. Thorough Initial Assessment and Baseline Testing
   Every athlete’s recovery starts with an in-depth evaluation, including neurological exams and baseline testing, to understand the concussion's impact. By establishing a pre-injury baseline, Dr. Nisreen can compare an athlete’s cognitive and physical functions before and after a concussion, helping her design a treatment plan tailored to their needs.
2. Brain Rehabilitation and Neuroplasticity Training
   Dr. Nisreen utilizes specialized brain rehabilitation exercises to enhance neuroplasticity, or the brain's ability to rewire itself. These therapies can include:
   • Balance and coordination exercises to improve stability and body awareness.
   • Oculomotor training to address visual tracking and reflexes.
   • Reaction time exercises that enhance cognitive processing speed.
3. Gradual Return-to-Play Protocols
   For athletes, returning to play safely is a priority. Dr. Nisreen follows structured return-to-play protocols, assessing the athlete’s readiness to resume training and competition. This step-by-step process includes rest periods, light activity, and progressively challenging exercises, ensuring the athlete’s brain and body are fully recovered.
4. Comprehensive Nutritional and Lifestyle Support
   Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for brain recovery. Dr. Nisreen provides customized guidance on anti-inflammatory diets, supplements, and hydration, supporting the brain’s healing process and optimizing cognitive function. Additionally, lifestyle recommendations like sleep optimization and stress management are incorporated to support full recovery.
5. Ongoing Support and Prevention Strategies
   Dr. Nisreen is dedicated to educating athletes and coaches on concussion prevention, emphasizing the importance of protective gear, safe techniques, and recognizing early signs of head injuries. Her comprehensive approach helps athletes build resilience and minimizes the risk of repeat concussions.

Why Choose Dr. Nisreen for Concussion Management in La Jolla?

Dr. Nisreen Tayebjee has extensive experience in both functional neurology and athletic rehabilitation, making her uniquely equipped to manage and prevent concussions for athletes. Her compassionate, science-based approach supports optimal recovery while empowering athletes to take an active role in their health.

For athletes and families in La Jolla looking for reliable concussion management, Brain Health D.C. provides a pathway to healing, safety, and a stronger return to sport. Contact our office today to schedule an assessment and learn more about how we can support your recovery journey.

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