Concussion Physiotherapy Brisbane southside.
What are Concussions?
A concussion is commonly termed as a “head knock” however it is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body, leading to the brain impaction within the skull. The rapid acceleration-deceleration causes a strain on the neural tissue leading to very quick metabolic depletion energy stores in brain tissues, which in turns leads to swelling, inflammation and various degrees of neuronal damage. Concussions range from very mild to very severe depending on the velocity and force of the impact.
Concussions are often caused by falls, impacts or tackles at sport, motor vehicle accidents and other situations involving combination of impact and speed.
What are the Symptoms of Concussions?
Symptoms vary among individuals but may include any combination of:
How are Concussions Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a concussion involves:
How can Physiotherapy Help with Concussions?
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the multi-disciplinary approach to concussion management:
How can Clinical Pilates Help with Concussion Rehabilitation?
Clinical Pilates can be an effective adjunct in the later stages of concussion rehab:
What is the Prognosis for Concussions?
Most concussions resolve within 7-10 days, though some individuals may experience symptoms for weeks or even months. Factors influencing recovery include the severity of the injury, age, and previous concussion history. Early intervention and a multi-disciplinary approach can aid faster recovery.
Post-concussion, it's essential to follow graded steps for returning to physical activity:
At our physiotherapy clinic, we're committed to providing evidence-based, comprehensive care to assist in your recovery journey post-concussion. Your well-being is our top concern, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.
Call us on 07 3706 3407 or email [email protected] for a booking or to see if our exercise programs might be right for you, or click on the link below to book your first appointment online. We look forward to working with you!
A concussion is commonly termed as a “head knock” however it is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body, leading to the brain impaction within the skull. The rapid acceleration-deceleration causes a strain on the neural tissue leading to very quick metabolic depletion energy stores in brain tissues, which in turns leads to swelling, inflammation and various degrees of neuronal damage. Concussions range from very mild to very severe depending on the velocity and force of the impact.
Concussions are often caused by falls, impacts or tackles at sport, motor vehicle accidents and other situations involving combination of impact and speed.
What are the Symptoms of Concussions?
Symptoms vary among individuals but may include any combination of:
- Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
- Fatigue or excessive sleepiness
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Confusion or feeling dazed
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears
- Neck pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Short-term memory loss
- Visual disturbances
- Emotional dysregulation, such as bouts of anger or feeling down
How are Concussions Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a concussion involves:
- Medical Examination: you will be asked detailed questions about the injury and symptoms.
- Neurological Tests: These assess memory, strength, sensation, balance, and coordination.
- Imaging: While most concussions won't show on traditional imaging, CT scans or MRIs may be used if more severe brain injury is suspected.
How can Physiotherapy Help with Concussions?
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the multi-disciplinary approach to concussion management:
- Assessment following head injuries, motor vehicle accidents, sporting injuries or falls to establish the diagnosis and treatment pathway and arrange referrals to specialists if necessary.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: Addresses issues like dizziness and balance problems.
- Cervical Physiotherapy: Treats neck injuries that often accompany concussions.
- Exercise Tolerance: Graded exercise helps in evaluating and improving tolerance to physical activity post-concussion.
- Education: Offering strategies to manage symptoms and advice on safe return to work, school, or sports.
How can Clinical Pilates Help with Concussion Rehabilitation?
Clinical Pilates can be an effective adjunct in the later stages of concussion rehab:
- Mind-Body Connection: Emphasises mindful movement, helping improve focus and cognitive function.
- Gentle Strengthening: Can be tailored to individual tolerance levels.
- Improving Posture: Assists in addressing any neck or spinal issues resulting from the injury.
- Flexibility: Helps relieve tension and reduce headache frequency and intensity.
What is the Prognosis for Concussions?
Most concussions resolve within 7-10 days, though some individuals may experience symptoms for weeks or even months. Factors influencing recovery include the severity of the injury, age, and previous concussion history. Early intervention and a multi-disciplinary approach can aid faster recovery.
Post-concussion, it's essential to follow graded steps for returning to physical activity:
- Rest: Until symptoms have largely resolved.
- Light Activity: Walking, swimming, or stationary cycling.
- Sport-specific Activities: Skating drills in ice hockey, running in soccer. No head impact activities.
- Non-contact Training: Progress to more complex training drills.
- Full Contact Practice: After medical clearance.
- Return to Play: Normal game play.
- Balanced diet and avoiding alcohol and smoking.
At our physiotherapy clinic, we're committed to providing evidence-based, comprehensive care to assist in your recovery journey post-concussion. Your well-being is our top concern, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.
Call us on 07 3706 3407 or email [email protected] for a booking or to see if our exercise programs might be right for you, or click on the link below to book your first appointment online. We look forward to working with you!