Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are essential members of the team that helps individuals recover from concussions. Concussions, a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), can result from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or from a fall or blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. While most people recover from a concussion, about 20% of adults and children experience prolonged post-concussion symptoms, including cognitive-communication difficulties such as trouble understanding conversations, talking, reading, writing, and social interaction.
SLPs are healthcare professionals who screen, assess, identify and treat speech, language, voice, fluency (stuttering), swallowing and feeding problems for all age groups. They work as part of post-concussion rehabilitation teams to address thinking, memory and attention difficulties, cognitive-communication disorders and other communication challenges.
In managing concussion symptoms, SLPs assess and intervene for cognitive-communication deficits such as attention, memory, language and executive functioning skills. They also provide extensive education about concussion/mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) to their patients and assist them in managing their symptoms with a return to daily activities (e.g., school and work).
In summary, SLPs play a vital role in helping individuals recover from concussions by providing assessment, intervention, education and support. If you or someone you know is experiencing prolonged post-concussion symptoms, it may be helpful to consult with an SLP. They have the skills and expertise to help provide strategies to address the symptoms of concussions that affect cognitive processing, attention, and focus.
The Speech Therapy Centres of Canada is a team of dedicated speech-language pathologists (commonly known as S-LPs or speech therapists) and speech-language pathology assistants (S-LPAs) who provide assessment and therapy services to children and adults with communication disorders. Our S-LPS, S-LPAs and support staff are truly committed to providing the highest quality of service to our clients and their families. We understand that navigating the world of speech therapy may be daunting so our client services team is prepared to help you every step of the way.
