Persisting Post-Concussion Symptoms (PPCS), sometimes called Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms, is a condition in which symptoms from a concussion continue beyond the expected recovery period and interfere with daily life.

Most people recover from a concussion within 2–4 weeks (children and adolescents may take longer). When symptoms persist for more than four weeks, many modern clinical guidelines refer to the condition as Persisting Post-Concussion Symptoms (PPCS).

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At The Cortex Brain & Spine Center (formerly The Cortex Chiropractic), we understand that persistent symptoms are often the result of dysfunction involving multiple systems—including the brain, eyes, vestibular (balance) system, cervical spine (neck), and autonomic nervous system. Rather than simply masking symptoms, our goal is to identify the underlying cause of your continued difficulties and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your brain's natural ability to heal through neuroplasticity.

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What causes PPCS?

PPCS is rarely caused by a single problem. Instead, symptoms often result from a combination of issues that may include:

• Dysfunction of the vestibular (balance) system

• Oculomotor (eye movement) dysfunction

• Cervical spine (neck) injuries/ subluxations

• Autonomic nervous system dysfunction (including POTS-like symptoms in some individuals)

• Persistent inflammation and altered brain metabolism

• Migraine disorders

• Changes in sensory processing and brain network function

• Psychological factors such as stress or anxiety, which can contribute to symptom persistence but are usually not the sole cause

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Common Symptoms of PPCS

Persisting post-concussion symptoms may include:

• Headaches or migraines

• Dizziness or vertigo

• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating

• Memory problems

• Blurred or double vision

• Light and sound sensitivity

• Balance and coordination difficulties

• Neck pain

• Fatigue and low energy

• Motion sensitivity

• Difficulty reading or using screens

• Sleep disturbances

• Anxiety, irritability, or mood changes

 

Our Approach to Concussion Recovery

At The Cortex Brain & Spine Center, every concussion is different. That's why we perform a comprehensive neurological evaluation to determine which systems have been affected. Your examination may include assessments of:

• Eye movements and visual tracking

• Balance and vestibular function

• Brain and nervous system performance

• Cervical spine function

• Autonomic nervous system regulation

• Coordination and movement patterns

Using the findings from your evaluation, we develop a customized treatment program that may include chiropractic functional neurology, specific chiropractic adjustments, vestibular rehabilitation, oculomotor (eye movement) therapy, balance training, neuromodulation, and targeted neurorehabilitation exercises designed to promote neuroplasticity and improve neurological function.

 

Helping You Return to the Life You Love

Our mission is to help patients move beyond persistent concussion symptoms and regain confidence in their health. Whether your injury occurred weeks, months, or even years ago, recovery is often possible when the right systems are evaluated and treated.

If you are experiencing lingering headaches, dizziness, brain fog, vision problems, or balance issues after a concussion, our team is here to help you understand why your symptoms persist and create a personalized plan to help you get back to work, school, sports, and the activities you enjoy.