Concussion management involves personalized care to assess, treat, and support recovery for a safe return to daily activities.
A concussion is a brain injury caused by acceleration or deceleration of the brain following a significant impact to the head or elsewhere on the body. The impact causes dysfunction within brain cells and decreased blood flow, resulting in temporary deficits in brain function.
Symptoms may include loss of consciousness, headache, pressure in the head, neck pain, nausea or vomiting, cognitive problems, dizziness, or balance problems, among others.
We also consider the psychological and social factors that can impact your pain and recovery. By addressing the mental and emotional aspects of healing, we create a more comprehensive and supportive treatment plan to help you achieve optimal results.
During the first appointment, the focus will be on education. Patients will learn about concussions and how various systems in the body can be affected. A thorough history and physical exam will be conducted, followed by a personalized plan to guide their safe return to work and sport.
Although autonomic system dysregulation may sound complicated, it simply means that functions like heart rate and breathing can be affected after a concussion. We assess this through a walking test, which helps safely reintroduce physical activity. There’s strong evidence showing that early, controlled exercise plays a key role in concussion recovery.
The forces needed to cause a concussion are much greater than those that cause whiplash, so treating the neck muscles is often an important part of recovery. Additionally, the vestibular system, which affects balance and vision, may contribute to symptoms and should be thoroughly evaluated through various visual tests.
Returning to work, school, and sports is a crucial part of your recovery. We will provide clear guidance on when it is safe to resume these activities and offer strategies, exercises, and drills that are both safe and effective in supporting your gradual return to full function.
Our team is extensively trained through Complete Concussion Management, completing a rigorous 40-hour course that provides comprehensive knowledge for concussion recovery. Beyond this training, our physiotherapists have hands-on experience working with athletes at all levels, from local youth sports to high-level national and Olympic-caliber teams.
At ReActive Physiotherapy, we prioritize the safety of athletes of all ages and skill levels. That’s why we’ve partnered with Complete Concussion Management (CCMI), a national leader in concussion care and research, to offer a comprehensive, evidence-based concussion management program. From preseason baseline testing to treatment and rehabilitation, we provide the tools needed to track recovery and ensure a safe return to learning, work, and play.
“Jenn is amazing, polite, friendly, compassionate, lover her passion and focus to help patients recover, I always look forward to seeing her at my appointments as each time I am learning something and taking one step forward to my recovery. Thank you Jenn for All the support, help and guidance in treating my injuries. Only regret is not doing this earlier. ”
Physiotherapist
Special Interests: Hockey, Concussion, Functional Exercise
Physiotherapist
Special Interests: Golf, Concussion, TMJ
Physiotherapist
Special Interests: Pelvic Health, Sports, Concussion
Physiotherapist
Special Interests: Concussion, Osteoarthritis, Athletic Injury
Have questions about Concussion Management?
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions for quick answers on what to expect during your sessions, how treatment works, and how we can help you achieve your recovery goals.
Based on the most recent evidence, early intervention is associated with a faster resolution of symptoms and a quicker return to activity. In other words, the sooner you start, the better! We recommend booking an appointment as soon as possible to begin your personalized recovery plan.
The length of each session depends on the type of assessment and treatment required. Sessions typically range from 30 minutes to 1 hour, especially if physical testing is involved, such as the Buffalo Treadmill Test or the Blackhawks Test. Your therapist will guide you on what to expect based on your specific needs.
The amount of time off depends on the nature of your job or sport, but in most cases, we encourage returning in some capacity as soon as possible. For work, modified duties or reduced hours are often recommended, as staying engaged can lead to improved outcomes. Similarly, in sports, early participation in low-risk activities, such as non-contact individual drills or light physical activity, is beneficial and can be progressed as your recovery allows. Your therapist will create a plan tailored to your specific needs and situation.
The number of sessions varies for each individual, as everyone responds to treatment differently. Your recovery plan will be tailored to your unique needs and progress. However, early intervention is key to achieving the best outcomes, so we encourage you to get started as soon as possible.
Your readiness to return to sport will be determined through a series of physical and cognitive tests conducted throughout your rehabilitation. These tests help ensure that your brain and body are functioning optimally. Once you pass these assessments and remain asymptomatic, you’ll be cleared to safely return to your sport. Your therapist will guide you through every step of the process.
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