Neurological Balance and Medical Disorders

Guide

Pediatric TBI & Concussions: Symptoms, Recovery & Therapy Support

Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team

Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board – Doctor of Therapy Rehab Division

Last updated: June 2025

All medical content on this page has been reviewed and approved by licensed Doctors on the DrSensory Clinical Review Board. Our reviewers follow strict editorial standards and ensure alignment with current APTA guidelines, evidence-based practice, and orthopedic rehabilitation protocols.

14 min read

Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussions: Symptoms, Impact & Therapy Recovery

TBI & Concussions: What Parents Need to Know

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a disruption in normal brain function caused by a blow, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head. In children, TBIs can result from falls, sports injuries, car accidents, or abuse. Concussions, the most common type of TBI, are typically classified as mild TBIs (mTBIs).

Children’s developing brains are more vulnerable to injury and may have longer recovery times, especially if early intervention is delayed. TBI can impact movement, communication, attention, behavior, and learning.

Common Causes of TBI and Concussions in Children

  • Falls (e.g., from furniture, stairs, playground equipment)
  • Sports-related injuries (football, soccer, cheerleading)
  • Motor vehicle crashes
  • Non-accidental trauma (abuse, shaken baby syndrome)
  • Bicycle accidents
  • Blunt-force trauma (e.g., being struck by an object)

Even mild head injuries can have lasting effects if not managed appropriately.

Signs and Symptoms of Pediatric TBI & Concussion

Symptoms can vary by age, severity, and injury location. They may appear immediately or develop hours or days later.

Physical Symptoms

  • Headache
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Fatigue or sleep disturbances

Cognitive & Behavioral Symptoms

  • Confusion or memory loss
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Slowed thinking or processing speed
  • Mood swings, irritability
  • Decreased academic performance

Speech & Communication Issues

  • Slurred speech
  • Word-finding difficulties
  • Reduced comprehension
  • Social communication challenges

Young children may show subtle signs such as excessive crying, loss of interest in favorite activities, or disrupted sleep patterns.

Diagnosing TBI and Concussions in Children

A pediatrician, neurologist, or emergency provider typically performs:

  • Clinical evaluation and symptom review
  • Neurological exam (reflexes, balance, coordination)
  • Imaging (CT or MRI scans for moderate to severe injuries)
  • Neuropsychological assessments (to evaluate cognitive and emotional function)

Early diagnosis is key to creating a custom recovery plan involving school accommodations and therapy services.

Recovery from Pediatric TBI: What Parents Should Expect

Most children recover from mild concussions within 2–4 weeks, but some experience post-concussion syndrome (PCS) or long-term effects. Moderate to severe TBIs may require months or years of rehabilitation.

Recovery is improved with:

  • Rest followed by gradual return to activity
  • Consistent therapy and school support
  • Monitoring for worsening symptoms or regression

How Therapy Helps Children Recover from TBI

Pediatric therapists play a vital role in TBI rehabilitation. Therapies support physical healing, cognitive development, communication, and emotional regulation.

Occupational Therapy

  • Rebuilds daily living skills (dressing, feeding, grooming)
  • Enhances attention, memory, and executive function
  • Supports sensory integration and school participation

Physical Therapy (PT)

  • Improves balance, coordination, and strengthA multidisciplinary approach is often best, combining therapies based on the child’s needs.
  • Addresses gait abnormalities or postural issues
  • Reduces fatigue and dizziness after activity

Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)

  • Treats speech and language impairments
  • Supports cognitive-communication skills (organization, reasoning, memory)
  • Improves social language and comprehension

A multidisciplinary approach is often best, combining therapies based on the child’s needs.

How DrSensory Helps Families Find the Right Therapist

DrSensory connects parents and caregivers to experienced pediatric therapy providers. Our verified directory includes:

  • Occupational Therapists (OTs)
  • Physical Therapists (PTs)
  • Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)

Search by condition, specialty, and location to find therapists experienced in brain injury recovery and rehabilitation.

📍 [Search Pediatric Therapists Near You →]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between a concussion and a TBI?

A concussion is a mild form of TBI. While all concussions are TBIs, not all TBIs are concussions. Severe TBIs may involve bleeding, loss of consciousness, or long-term disability, while concussions usually involve temporary functional disruptions.

Can a child recover fully from a concussion?

Yes. Most children with mild concussions recover completely with rest and gradual return to school and physical activity. However, repeated concussions or lack of early treatment can lead to long-term complications.

What are signs that my child needs therapy after a head injury?

If your child experiences:

  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering
  • Delayed speech or language
  • Balance issues
  • Struggles with daily tasks or behavior regulation
    They may benefit from OT, PT, or SLP services to aid in recovery.

Does DrSensory provide mental health support for TBI?

No. While DrSensory does not list mental health professionals, we connect families with pediatric therapists who support developmental and functional recovery after brain injury.

How soon after a head injury should therapy begin?

Therapy may begin as soon as symptoms are identified and the child is medically stable. Early intervention improves recovery and reduces the risk of long-term challenges.

This page provides general educational content and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed provider for diagnosis and treatment.

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