Blue...

Welcome to NT. Peachey gave you good advice about understanding concussion and mTBI.

I'll try to respond to you whole post. I need to quote it so I can add double spacing so I can read it.

<Hello,
I'm new to this forum and would like to relate my experience.
In July 2008 I fell into a 6 feet deep inspection pit at a garage. I hit my head and lower back. I immediately had a large bump in the occipital area with a strong burning sensation and pain. I went to my GP and he referred me to an osteopath saying that after a few sessions with him, I would be fine.This was not the case, his manipulations made me feel worse so I stopped seeing him.>

This weak response from a GP is common. GP's are usually lousy as concussions.

< I was constantly dazed, with headaches, extreme anxiety, couldn't read for any length of time, couldn't watch TV, listen to the radio, a lot of pain in my lower back. >

Other than your back pain, these are classic concussion symptoms.

<I was then referred to a rehabilitation centre and there doctor focussed on prescribing treatment for my cervical spine claiming I had whiplash symtoms. Physical therapy was totally useless, in fact each time still now physios give me treatments, I feel worse. >

Not uncommon. You may find a different Physical Therapy clinic can help you better. You may be able to find a physiatrist (Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine specialist)

<I finally decided to have a consultation with a neurologist and he diagnosed me as having post concussion syndrome and PTSD, which was not diagnosed and left untreated for all these years. He prescribed a low dose antidepressant to help with my symptoms, but after 4 years from the original concussion (and a second concussion in the meantime, I bumped the same side of my head into a doorpost ) although I feel better, I'm still plagued with headaches, short term memory and concentration problems, fatigue, noise/light sensitivity, dizziness. >

Your one of the 15% who have prolonged concussion symptoms. Have you ever taken time to get quiet rest so your brain can try to recover?

<In the meantime I lost my job as a translator in a company (staff doctors there didn't believe in my symptoms and thought either I was malingering or that symptoms were only psychological) and separated from my partner as he couldn't stand me not being able to do previous activities and needing so much quiet time alone.>

Welcome to the club with those of us who need the quiet and can no longer be the life of the party. Have you tried to find a brain injury support group? The Brain Injury Association of America has state chapter that can direct you to a local support group if there is one. Meeting others with the same struggles can be very worthwhile and uplifting.

<I'm meant to appear before a medical commission soon to evaluate the symptoms left by this accident and fix the degree of disability. Medical commission will be composed of three doctors, of whom a neuropsychiatrist who seems to be experienced in the evaluation of concussion.>

It will more likely be a NeuroPsychologist. A NeuroPsychological Assessment can be very good at defining your limitations. Read the information at www.tbilaw.com and www.subtlebraininjury.com It is very good.

You have not mentioned where you are. Us knowing your state or country will help us support you. Some of us have been through disability determination processes. It is best to know as much about your own condition as possible. The TBI Survival Guide at www.tbiguide.com can help you understand your symptoms. It is 84 pages that you can print out. Then read it slowly and highlight the symptoms you recognize. Go slow. It can be overwhelming.

<I'm soooo anxious in view of this assessment, I so much fear being again confronted with disbelief and accused of malingering. Since the accident I can't manage my emotions and I'm afraid I'll start crying in front of these doctors.
Any advice/comment would be greatly appreciated
Thank you >

If you start to cry, go ahead. It is a symptom of a head injury. It is called emotional lability.

"la·bile/ˈlāˌbīl/
Adjective: Liable to change; easily altered.
Of or characterized by emotions that are easily aroused or freely expressed, and that tend to alter quickly and spontaneously; emotional..."

Explain that you cry easily now.


Feel free to ask questions. We are here for you.

My best to you.