Head, Neck & Back Pain

Overview

Massachusetts General Hospital’s Sports Medicine team provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary recovery care for athletes with chronic or acute neck and back pain. We also treat patients who have sustained head injuries and concussions.

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Experts in Concussion Care

Mass General, part of the Mass General Brigham integrated health system, is the premier sports medicine provider in New England, with a proven track record of expertise and innovation in orthopedic care. Our nationally recognized sports medicine experts will assess, treat and rehabilitate athletes who have experienced cognitive impairment during sports or recreational activities. The Sports Concussion Clinic at Mass General for Children cares for children, adolescents and college-aged adults who have sustained concussions while playing sports or other recreational activities.

A Team Approach to Treating Athletes

Our multidisciplinary team of sports medicine doctors are experts in treating athletes who participate in all sports. We partner with you to develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals, and we will provide you with comprehensive care every step of the way—from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation and recovery. We develop sport-specific plans to optimize your recovery, restore performance and prevent further injury.

At Mass General, our different specialists work together with a shared focus on patient outcomes. Our orthopedic surgeons work closely with physiatrists, physical therapists, sports trainers, nutritionists, psychologists, coaches and other wellness experts to ensure we are treating the whole athlete rather than simply focusing on a temporary fix.

Our physicians drive breakthroughs in sports medicine research, technology and treatment. This means our patients receive the most advanced care, have access to an array of treatment options and experience safe, fast recoveries.

Concussion Symptoms

A patient who has had a concussion may experience a variety of symptoms, including but not limited to:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Changes in attention, concentration and memory

Options for Treating Head, Neck and Spine Injuries

Treatment options for head, neck and spine injuries depend on your medical history, the nature and severity of your injury and pain, your age and your overall health. An initial sports medicine appointment for suspected concussion or other injuries to the head, neck and spine may include:

• A physical and neurological examination
• Testing of vision, hearing and balance (vestibular testing)
• Cognitive testing to assess memory, processing speed and reaction time
• Education about concussions
• Follow-up/after-care instructions
• Referral(s) to other specialists, e.g., physical therapist, neurologist or clinical psychologist