Concussion Management
Expert assessment and treatment for safe recovery and return to activities
Understanding Concussions
A concussion is a type of brain injury that can affect your balance, coordination, strength, and even your mood and ability to focus. While concussions are often associated with sports injuries, they can occur in many situations including falls, motor vehicle accidents, and other impacts to the head or body.
Physiotherapy plays a key role in the management of concussions, particularly in helping individuals recover, alleviate symptoms, and return to normal activities safely. Our specialized concussion management program is designed to support your recovery every step of the way.
Our Approach to Concussion Management
At Forte Sports & Orthopaedic Physiotherapy, we take a comprehensive approach to concussion management. We recognize that each concussion is unique, and treatment must be tailored to your specific symptoms and circumstances. Our goal is not only to help you recover but to ensure you can safely return to work, school, sports, or other activities.
Our specialists use evidence-based assessment and treatment techniques, working closely with you to develop a personalized recovery plan. We also collaborate with other healthcare providers when necessary to ensure you receive the most effective care possible.
Our Concussion Management Services Include:
- Comprehensive concussion assessment
- Manual therapy for pain management
- Education on activity modification
- Symptom management strategies
- Visual training exercises
- Vestibular and balance retraining
- Return to work/school/sport planning
- Ongoing progress monitoring
The Concussion Recovery Process
Initial Assessment
Your first visit involves a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and the circumstances of your injury. We'll assess your cognitive function, balance, coordination, and other systems that may be affected.
Symptom Management
We'll provide specific techniques to help manage your symptoms, which may include manual therapy for headaches, positions to reduce dizziness, and strategies to manage visual disturbances and fatigue.
Guided Exercise Program
As you progress, we'll introduce a carefully monitored exercise program designed to safely increase your activity levels without exacerbating symptoms, including specialized exercises for visual tracking and vestibular/balance retraining.
Return to Activity Planning
We'll work with you to develop a staged plan for safely returning to work, school, and/or sports, with clear guidance on how to progress without risking setbacks or further injury.
Follow-up and Support
We provide ongoing monitoring and support throughout your recovery process, adjusting your treatment plan as needed based on your progress and response to activities.
Book Your Assessment
If you've recently suffered a head injury or suspect you may have a concussion, don't delay seeking proper care. Our concussion specialists are ready to help guide your recovery.
Book NowCommon Concussion Symptoms
- Headaches
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory issues
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes or irritability
If you're experiencing these symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention promptly.
Common Questions About Concussion Management
How soon after a concussion should I seek physiotherapy?
It's important to first be assessed by a physician after any suspected concussion. Once medically cleared, physiotherapy can begin as early as a few days after injury. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and can help manage symptoms from the start of your recovery.
How long does concussion recovery take?
Recovery time varies greatly depending on the severity of the concussion, your previous concussion history, and individual factors. Many people recover within 7-10 days, but some may experience symptoms for weeks or months. Our personalized approach helps optimize your recovery timeline.
Is complete rest recommended after a concussion?
Current research suggests that after a brief period of rest (24-48 hours), a gradual return to activity under the guidance of healthcare professionals provides better outcomes than prolonged rest. Our physiotherapists will help you safely determine what level and type of activity is appropriate during each stage of recovery.
When is it safe to return to sports after a concussion?
Return to sports should follow a gradual, step-by-step progression only after you are symptom-free both at rest and with exertion. Our physiotherapists will guide you through this process and ensure you meet the necessary criteria before full return to play. Returning too early risks prolonged symptoms and increased vulnerability to additional injuries.