What Is a Coup-Contrecoup Brain Injury?

David J. Muñoz | July 13, 2026 | Brain Injuries

What Is a Coup-Contrecoup Brain Injury?

Head trauma can cause serious injuries, including concussions and bruises that impact brain tissue. Coup-contrecoup brain injuries are some of the most severe you can experience, potentially leaving you with lasting health issues that could impact you for the rest of your life. 

Learn more about these types of brain injuries and what you can expect from the healing process. 

Understanding Coup-Contrecoup Injuries

A coup-contrecoup injury is a severe type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that involves the brain suffering damage at the site of direct impact and then bouncing back and striking the opposite side against the skull. 

The brain floats in cerebrospinal fluid, so extreme physical trauma can cause it to shift. The coup injury is the initial blow when the brain slams against the inside of the skull on the side that was hit. The contrecoup injury is the brain rebounding and hitting the opposite side of the skull. When these two injuries occur together, it’s called a coup-contrecoup brain injury. 

Symptoms and Common Causes of a Coup-Contrecoup Injury

Every injury is different, but some of the symptoms of a coup-contrecoup injury can include:

  • Persistent and severe headaches
  • Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
  • Confusion 
  • Memory issues
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Tingling or numbness in the extremities

The most common causes of coup-contrecoup injuries are car accidents. Sudden deceleration from high speeds or hitting your head directly against a surface can result in these injuries. Falls could also be to blame, especially if you land directly on your head. Physical assault can cause coup-contrecoup brain injuries, too. 

How Is a Coup-Contrecoup Brain Injury Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosing this type of injury requires a CT scan or MRI. Imaging studies help locate swelling, bleeding, and bruising. Your doctor will probably also conduct a thorough physical assessment to understand the full extent of the injury. 

Mild cases could require only monitoring, pain management, and rest. However, severe cases will likely mean going through surgery to remove blood clots or relieve pressure. It may also be necessary to receive long-term rehabilitation. 

Physical therapy helps restore mobility and balance, while occupational therapy teaches you how to perform daily tasks with your current health limitations. Some people also require cognitive retraining. This type of therapy helps rebuild lost memory, processing speed, and concentration. 

Could a Coup-Contrecoup Brain Injury Lead to a Personal Injury Case?

If the coup-contrecoup injury you suffered occurred because of another party’s misconduct, you may be entitled to compensation from the person responsible. To obtain it, you will need to prove that negligence or wrongful conduct occurred and that it directly caused your injury. Damages can cover losses like medical bills, pain and suffering, and future care costs.

Although it may sound like a simple process to go through, it is not, especially when dealing with the after-effects of a brain injury. You will have to gather significant amounts of evidence and negotiate with insurance companies that will be looking for any way to minimize your claim. To have a better chance of obtaining fair compensation, you need an attorney. 

Contact the San Diego Brain Injury Lawyers at Mission Personal Injury Lawyers to Schedule a Free Consultation After a Coup-Contrecoup Brain Injury

A coup-contrecoup brain injury can affect every part of your life, from your health and ability to work to your relationships and long-term independence. If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Recovering compensation after an injury can be a long and challenging process, but you do not have to face it alone. Our legal team can review your case, explain your rights and options, and help you fight for the compensation you deserve. For more information, contact an experienced San Diego brain injury lawyer at Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation today.

We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
3666 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 777-5555

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Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032

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We also serve the state of Texas. For legal assistance, contact our personal injury law office in El Paso today.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000

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