Concussions are one of the most prevalent and most misunderstood athletic injuries. Also known as an “invisible injury,” because it cannot be seen, but has a huge impact on brain function. Usually, a concussion happens when an individual suffers a direct or indirect force to the head that causes the brain to accelerate and decelerate rapidly within the skull. Unlike what people think, there does not have to be a direct blow to the head for someone to develop a concussion. While it can happen from a hit to the head from a ball, puck, or person, it can also happen from forceful blows to the body such as being tackled.
Concussions are not just the outcome of high-contact sports. Additionally, they are commonly seen in patients involved in motor vehicle accidents. It is important to diagnose and treat a concussion as soon as possible to increase the chances of a full recovery.
What are the most common symptoms of concussions?
The symptoms vary greatly depending on the severity, a pre-existing history of concussion, and whether there was a loss of consciousness. Generally, more symptoms in higher intensities are associated with more severe headaches, especially if there was a loss of consciousness. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Balance problems
- Difficulty regulating mood
- Fatigue
- Disorientation/confusion
- Memory issues
- “Slower” thoughts
- Nausea
- Blurry vision
- Light and/or noise sensitivity
As can be seen, there are a large number of symptoms that may or may not be present post-concussion. Concussions can affect a lot of different systems in the body including cognition, vision, balance, coordination and more. As a result, many different health care professionals may be involved during the duration of a concussion treatment.
How does physiotherapy play in role in concussion management?
Physiotherapy can play a significant role in the recovery process. After medical diagnosis, a physiotherapist will assess the primary symptoms of the neck, balance, visual system, and coordination system. We already discussed how not everyone with a concussion will develop the same symptoms. Accordingly, they will receive a personalized treatment protocol and plan.
Musculoskeletal Symptom Management
First, neck and upper back symptoms are extremely common in concussion, particularly if the mechanism of concussion was a whiplash injury. Physiotherapists will treat these areas using manual therapy, mobility exercises, and soft tissue techniques in an attempt to reduce pain and headaches. Furthermore, concussions often affect the vestibular and visual systems. These, in turn, can lead to dizziness, balance problems, and difficulties with focusing the eyes.
Vestibular and Visual Symptom Management
Vestibular rehabilitation and oculomotor exercises attempt to retrain the brain to properly process vestibular motion and visual input. These may include habituation exercises, which slowly force the system to adapt and become less symptomatic over time. At the start, these exercises will be difficult and trigger the symptoms quickly. An important part of concussion management is knowing how much increase is okay, and when to take a break.
Back to School, Work, and Sport
In the past, it was assumed that rest, especially prolonged rest, is best for individuals who have suffered a concussion. The common image that people have of a concussion treatment is somebody sitting in a dark and quiet room, unable to do much. However, it is now well supported in the literature that light aerobic exercise, while respecting the symptoms, is the ideal path of recovery in early stages. Physiotherapists facilitate patients to resume activity with a structured, step-wise approach. This enables patients to have a framework to track symptoms and keep them under control as cognitive and physical activity demands are increased. Oftentimes, school or work are challenging for students or professionals to return to, as well as athletes returning to a sport. Physiotherapists help to gauge rates of recovery relative to cognitive endurance, visual tracking, and dual-task tolerance; all with the aim of having individuals enjoy a full recovery to daily activities.
Education
Education is also a large component of physiotherapy. The parents or caregivers, and the patients themselves must be educated on symptom management, what to expect, and the time frames to return-to work/sport/school. Fortunately, there is good evidence that an early physio intervention leads to shorter recovery times, limits long-term complications, and assists with emotional well-being and additional return to their everyday life. If necessary, Physiotherapists may recommend a referral to a physician, occupational therapists, and other providers to provide patients with safe and confident return to sport and life.
Looking for more help?
Look for PhysioNow! Our clinic has 10 beautiful locations with free parking located across the GTA. From Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, to Etobicoke, we have many expert clinicians ready to assist you in your recovery. Whether it’s a concussion, motor vehicle accident, or sports injury, we have the tools to get you back to your normal life. Book with PhysioNow today for you first assessment and treatment!
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