Concussions

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that affects brain function. Effects of a concussion are usually short-term and include headaches and trouble with concentration, memory and balance. Concussions happen from a hard impact to the head or body and may cause an individual to lose consciousness. 

Falls are the most common cause of concussions, though individuals who participate in sports are at a higher risk of concussions. 

Symptoms of a concussion include: 

• Headache 

• Ringing in the ears

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Fatigue or drowsiness

• Blurry vision 

• Confusion 

• Amnesia 

• Dizziness 

Bystanders may observe these symptoms at the moment of injury: 

• Temporary loss of consciousness 

• Slurred speech 

• Delayed response 

• Forgetfulness 

How Can Total Rehab Clinics Help You?

Concussion recovery often involves multiple body systems, making a multidisciplinary approach highly effective. Physiotherapists, chiropractors, registered massage therapists, and acupuncturists each offer unique benefits that can help address symptoms, promote healing, and support a safe return to daily activities, work, school, and sport. Together, these therapies can provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs.

• Physiotherapy

  Physiotherapy plays a key role in concussion rehabilitation by addressing symptoms such as dizziness, balance problems, neck pain, headaches, and exercise intolerance. A physiotherapist can assess the body's balance system, vision and movement coordination, and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include balance training, neck treatment, and a gradual return-to-activity program. This helps patients safely recover and return to their daily activities, work, school, or sport.

• Chiropractic

  Following a concussion, many individuals experience neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced mobility due to associated cervical spine injuries. Chiropractic care focuses on evaluating and treating dysfunctions of the neck, upper back, and surrounding muscles and joints. Through gentle manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, and corrective exercises, chiropractors can help improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate headache symptoms that may contribute to prolonged concussion recovery.

• Massage Therapy

  Registered massage therapy can be beneficial during concussion recovery by addressing muscle tension, stress, and soft tissue restrictions, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Many concussion sufferers develop tight muscles due to altered posture, pain, or protective guarding. Massage therapy promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces tension-related headaches, and can support overall recovery when incorporated into a multidisciplinary treatment approach.

• Acupuncture

  Acupuncture may help manage several common concussion symptoms, including headaches, neck pain, stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and muscle tension. By stimulating specific points throughout the body, acupuncture aims to support the body's natural healing processes and encourage relaxation. Many patients find that acupuncture complements other rehabilitation therapies by helping reduce discomfort and improve overall well-being during recovery.

Read more about Concussions here: https://braininjurycanada.ca/en/concussion/