Concussion Treatment
What is Concussion?
A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury. It can be caused by an impact to the head or forces to the body that result in the brain moving within the skull. Commonly, concussions can be caused by impacts in sports, falls and motor vehicle accidents. Concussions can happen to anyone, and there are many myths surrounding the diagnosis and recovery of concussions that can lead to prolonged recovery. A typical concussion recovery period is 2 to 4 weeks for adults, but this may be influenced by many individual factors.
Proper management from the time of incident can decrease the risk of persistent symptoms or complications.
Image from Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
Symptoms of a Concussion:
- Headaches
- Neck Pain
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea
- Blurred Vision
- Sensitivity to Light or Sound
- Tinnitus
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Concentration or Memory Issues
Red Flag Symptoms
- Double Vision
- Weakness in Arms or Legs
- Severe or Increasing Headache
- Loss of Consciousness
- Deteriorating Conscious State
- Vomiting
- Increasingly Restless, Agitated or Combative
If you are experiencing any of the red flag symptoms, seek emergency care immediately
How can Athletic Therapy help a Concussion?
While many are familiar with the role of an Athletic Therapist in sports related concussions, assisting with baseline testing and sideline assessment, few know the benefits of seeing one in a clinical setting to aid in recovery. A physician is often not able to diagnose a concussion with medical imaging as it is a physiological change in the brain that does not show on scans. Athletic Therapists are trained in the assessment of concussions and can provide a complete step by step recovery guide that is tailored to your demands. As certified members of the CATA, our Athletic Therapists are also aligned with the Candian Concussion Collaborative (CCC).
Are You Seeking Help with a Concussion?
Our Athletic therapist Tegan Johnson is trained in the identification, assessment, and
treatment of concussions. Her goal is to work with patients to manage their symptoms and
make a full return to work, school and sport following a concussion.
