Blog

Can a Concussion Cause Vertigo? Why You May Feel Dizzy After a Head Injury

Jadean Hoff, PT, DPT, NCS, CCVR — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Can a Concussion Cause Vertigo? Why You May Feel Dizzy After a Head Injury

Yes, a concussion can cause vertigo and dizziness, but it is not something you have to simply live with.

What Should I Say When I Forget a Word? Conversation Tips for People with Mild Cognitive Impairment

Shannon Masella — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Forgetting a word in the middle of a conversation can happen to anyone.

But if you have mild cognitive impairment (MCI), those moments may happen more often and can be frustrating or even make you want to avoid social situations altogether.

How Physical Therapy Helps Manage Persistent Pain and Improve Function

Shane Gallagher, PT, DPT — Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Persistent pain can affect nearly every part of daily life. Activities that once felt simple – walking, exercising, working, or even sleeping – can become more challenging when pain continues for weeks or months.

Don’t Let Your A1C Stand Between You and a Successful Surgery

Elizabeth Glass, MHA, RDN, CDN — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

You’ve taken the steps to move forward with surgery, only to learn that your A1C level may delay the process. It can feel frustrating, confusing, and even discouraging.

But this moment isn’t a setback—it’s an opportunity.

Stop Overcomplicating the Gym: 5 Surprising Truths from the Latest Science of Strength

Corey Podbielski, PT, DPT, OCS — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The modern fitness landscape is a minefield of "hacks," "optimal" percentages, and contradictory advice. For many, the obsession with finding the perfect program has become a barrier to entry, leaving them paralyzed by the fear that if they aren't doing it exactly right, they shouldn't do it at all. We’ve traded the simple act of moving heavy things for a spreadsheet-induced headache.

Nutrition to Support Your Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery

Gaylord — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

by Alexa Marks, RD

The journey to recovery after a traumatic brain injury is fueled by more than just determination; it runs on nutritious foods to help your brain and body heal.

In this article, I explore the role of nutrition in optimal recovery from traumatic brain injuries. Whether you're navigating this path yourself or supporting a loved one through their journey, these insights can help equip you with practical tips to harness the healing power of food.

Prioritize Protein to Feed Your Brain

Protein is the building block for recovery, and the protein needs of people recovering from traumatic brain injuries are elevated. Opt for lean turkey, lean beef, fish, eggs, and plant-based proteins like beans and lentils.

Embrace The Mediterranean Diet

A Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole grains, fish, olive oil, and fresh fruits and vegetables and promotes overall health and weight management, crucial aspects of TBI recovery. Incorporating healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish (think salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, and herring, among others), nuts, and seeds is a great way to support your brain health as you recover. Opting for low-salt food choices can help you maintain healthy blood pressure.

When it Comes to Brain Injury Recovery, Calories Count!

Our brains use calories to function. After a brain injury, eating enough calories is vital to help our brains function well. Opt for “good” calories in whole foods rather than empty calories in sugary or processed foods.

While individual calorie needs vary (consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations), establishing a routine of three meals and two snacks can provide a framework for sustaining energy levels and fueling your body’s recovery.

Set a Reminder

It’s not unusual for someone with a traumatic brain injury to forget to eat or feel too fatigued to cook or eat. Taste changes may even make you disinterested in food. Setting an alarm is a great reminder to help prioritize regular eating patterns.

Eat to Keep Energy Levels … Level

Reach for whole grains instead of refined grains. The fiber in whole grain products is digested slowly, helping your energy remain stable throughout the day. Again, setting an alarm can help keep meals consistent for steady energy throughout the day. If you’re away from home, bring snacks to take with you to boost your energy between meals!

Steer clear of sugary drinks, as they can lead to weight gain and energy crashes, which can be especially problematic for those experiencing fatigue. Drinking eight glasses of water daily is a great way to help prevent fatigue and other symptoms.

Shop Strategically

Being in a busy store with lots of choices can quickly become overwhelming and fatiguing, making it tempting to make poor food decisions.

It may be helpful to shop at a time when you have the most energy or the store is less crowded. Stick to a list of needed items and start shopping from the perimeter of the store – where the healthiest foods are – and work your way in if needed.

Read labels to check for salt and added sugar. If you are struggling to read the nutrition labels, don’t hesitate to ask somebody.

Stock up on frozen fruits and veggies for your freezer. They’re just as nutritious as fresh produce if you select ones without sauces or gravies that add excess fat and salt.

To learn tips on overcoming taste and appetite challenges after a TBI, read the next article in my series here. For guidance about personalized nutrition strategies, meet with a registered dietitian dedicated to fueling your recovery.
Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations before starting any nutrition routine.

Understanding the Five Most Common Emotional Effects of Stroke: A Caregiver’s Guide

Gaylord — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

By Dorene Scolnic, LCSW

Caring for a loved one after a stroke can be emotionally complex. While physical rehabilitation is often the primary focus, addressing the emotional and psychological aftermath is equally important.

Top Signs You Might Have Sarcopenia: What to Watch for

Corey Podbielski, PT, DPT, OCS — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Is Muscle-Loss Slowing You Down?

Sarcopenia is the gradual loss of muscle mass, strength, and function.

It is common, but it’s often overlooked. It’s especially common in those with osteoporosis.

There has also been a surge in those taking GLP-1s for weight loss or diabetes management. It is a condition that can impact your mobility, independence, and overall health.

The good news? Recognizing it early and taking action can make a big difference. Here are some of the signs that might mean that you might have sarcopenia:

The 5 Best Leg Exercises for Longevity

Corey Podbielski, PT, DPT, OCS — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Building Strength from the Ground Up

Strong legs are essential for living well as we age. Lower-body strength supports nearly every daily movement, from standing up and climbing stairs to lifting, carrying, and maintaining balance.

Research consistently links leg strength, particularly in the quadriceps and glutes, to improved mobility, reduced fall risk, and longer lifespan.

Focusing on a few foundational movement patterns can be one of the most effective ways to build leg strength and longevity. And the good news? All of them can be easily adapted for beginners, older adults, and athletes.

Leg Strength and Longevity: Why Strong Legs Matter as You Age

Corey Podbielski, PT, DPT, OCS — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Why Leg Strength Matters as We Age

As we age, maintaining leg strength becomes one of the most important predictors of long-term health and independence. Strong legs support balance, mobility, and confidence in daily movement, while weakness in the lower body is closely linked to falls, loss of independence, and decreased quality of life.