Why Dizziness Is One of the Most Common Post-Concussion Symptoms

After a concussion, people often expect headaches, fatigue, or memory issues, but dizziness is one of the most frequent and frustrating symptoms that lingers. At Mid-Atlantic Brain and Neurological Rehabilitation in Silver Spring, MD, we see firsthand how post-concussion dizziness can interfere with even the simplest daily activities, from standing up quickly to walking through a crowded hallway.

The Connection Between Concussions and Balance

The brain and the inner ear work together to keep us balanced. Inside the inner ear is the vestibular system, a network that helps the brain process motion, spatial orientation, and stability. A concussion can disrupt this system directly or affect how the brain interprets signals from it. The result? Feelings of spinning (vertigo), lightheadedness, or unsteadiness when moving (Alsalheen et al., 2016).

Other Factors That Contribute to Dizziness

Dizziness after a concussion isn’t always caused by just one thing. Other factors can play a role, such as:

• Neck Injuries – Whiplash or cervical strain can alter posture and blood flow, contributing to imbalance (Ellis et al., 2015).
• Vision Problems – Concussions can cause the eyes to struggle with tracking and focus, which often makes dizziness worse (Master et al., 2016).
• Sensory Overload – Busy environments with lots of movement or noise can overwhelm the brain’s ability to process information, leading to disorientation (Kontos et al., 2018).

Why It Matters

While dizziness may seem like an inconvenience, it can have a real impact on quality of life. Many people avoid driving, exercise, or social activities because they’re afraid of losing balance or feeling lightheaded. Left untreated, this can lead to isolation, decreased activity levels, and longer recovery times (Mucha et al., 2014).

The Path Toward Recovery

The good news is that post-concussion dizziness is treatable. With specialized care like vestibular therapy, patients can retrain their balance system, reduce symptoms, and regain confidence in daily movement (Alsalheen et al., 2016). At Mid-Atlantic Brain and Neurological Rehabilitation, we take a personalized approach to help each patient recover safely and fully.

Contact Mid-Atlantic Brain and Neurological Rehabilitation to Learn More

Dizziness may be common after a concussion, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right support, recovery is within reach. Call Mid-Atlantic Brain and Neurological Rehabilitation in Silver Springs, MD, today at (240) 766-8881.

References

Alsalheen, B. A., Mucha, A., Morris, L. O., Whitney, S. L., Furman, J. M., Camiolo-Reddy, C. E., Collins, M. W., & Sparto, P. J. (2016). Vestibular rehabilitation for dizziness and balance disorders after concussion. Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy, 34(2), 87–93.

Ellis, M. J., Leddy, J., & Willer, B. (2015). Physiological, vestibulo-ocular and cervicogenic post-concussion disorders: An evidence-based classification system with directions for treatment. Brain Injury, 29(2), 238–248.

Kontos, A. P., Deitrick, J. M., & Collins, M. W. (2018). Review of vestibular and oculomotor screening and concussion rehabilitation. Journal of Athletic Training, 52(3), 256–261.

Master, C. L., Scheiman, M., Gallaway, M., Goodman, A., Robinson, R. L., Master, S. R., & Grady, M. F. (2016). Vision diagnoses are common after concussion in adolescents. Clinical Pediatrics, 55(3), 260–267.

Mucha, A., Collins, M. W., Elbin, R. J., Furman, J. M., Troutman-Enseki, C., DeWolf, R. M., Marchetti, G., & Kontos, A. P. (2014). A brief vestibular/ocular motor screening (VOMS) assessment to evaluate concussions: Preliminary findings. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 42(10), 2479–2486.