The Concussed Ear: Contemporary Pearls for Integrative Care

Traumatic brain injuries and concussions cause complex physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. More specifically, the disruption of sensory input can affect the integration of input in the brain leading to disordered motor output, thus involving the ear and balance system. It is imperative to provide these patients with a careful, comprehensive, and integrative approach to differential diagnosis and management starting with the ear. This course will discuss the roles and value of collaborative care when focused on otologic pathologies and the recovery from traumatic brain injury. The attendees will be able to: - List otologic pathologies associated with brain injuries and concussion. - Formulate a differential diagnosis of the otologic pathologies associated with brain injuries and concussion. - Identify at least 3 specialty professions and their value within an integrated approach to the evaluation and care of the 'inner ear' as a cornerstone to enduring recovery from concussion.