Concussion is a common term that many people associate with simply a bump on the head. While it may look normal with no visible signs, this mild traumatic brain injury can affect your balance, vision, and concentration abilities, often leading to long-term complications if not managed properly. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 1.6% of Canadians aged 12 years and older have experienced one or more concussions, with many people struggling with prolonged symptoms.
What many do not realize is that physical therapy can play an important part in concussion recovery. With specialized techniques, physiotherapy can significantly reduce symptoms and boost healing. This blog explores how physiotherapy for concussion aids in faster recovery and what you can expect throughout the process.
Common Causes of Concussions & Their Symptoms
A sudden jolt to the head, neck, or upper body generally causes concussions. This strong push or shake can disrupt normal brain functioning, even without direct contact with the skull. While falls and motor vehicles can cause a concussion, individuals involved in physical or sports activities are more likely to experience this injury, particularly in Winnipeg’s winter sports, such as football or rugby. Although some symptoms may resolve within a few weeks, persistent ones can result in post-concussion syndrome. Some of the physical symptoms of concussions include:
- Headache
- Blurry vision
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
- Fatigue or drowsiness
Other symptoms may include:
- Confusion
- Amnesia
- Dizziness
Does Physiotherapy Help with Concussions?
Yes, physiotherapy goes beyond just muscles and joints; it is among the most effective and safe treatments for concussion symptoms that helps retrain the brain and nervous system after a concussion. Physical therapy is beneficial, especially when symptoms persist beyond the initial days. While rest is crucial immediately after the injury, inactivity for long periods can delay recovery. With the help of concussion physiotherapy, experts can address the various symptoms associated with concussion through a structured, safe, and personalized recovery plan. Here are some ways in which physiotherapy can help:
Reduce Physical Symptoms
Headaches, neck pain, and muscle tightness are common symptoms after a concussion. Physiotherapists use evidence-based manual techniques, soft tissue release, and posture correction to alleviate these physical problems, especially those related to cervical spine strain. Physical therapy can also address muscular imbalances and nerve problems that can contribute to long-term discomfort. By incorporating gentle mobilizations and ergonomic advice, this therapy can help reduce daily strain, promoting healing in the affected areas.
Improves Balance
Post-concussion, dizziness, and balance problems can arise due to disturbances in the brain’s ability to process motion signals. This is most likely to be experienced by individuals who face difficulty maintaining stability when moving or turning their heads. Concussion physiotherapy can help address the underlying causes of these issues, restoring balance and improving coordination.
Supports Visual Recovery
Mild brain injuries can also affect vision, causing difficulty focusing and light sensitivity. These visual problems can make it challenging for individuals to engage in simple tasks, like reading or using screens. Through personalized physical therapy, these visual challenges can be improved, enabling individuals to tolerate longer periods of visual tasks.
Gradual Return to Activity
Concussions are one of the most common injuries among athletes, and returning to the field too quickly can be risky for sports individuals. However, a physio for concussions can help in the recovery process, gradually enabling individuals to reintroduce their physical activities. Physiotherapists carefully examine the body’s response to increased activity, gradually increasing the intensity & duration of physical activity.
When to Start Physio After a Concussion?
A common misconception prevailed around concussion treatment, stating that people need to be symptom-free to begin physio for concussion. It is important to take complete rest during the first 24 to 48 hours post-injury, but long-term inactivity can delay the healing process. So, once your doctor rules out the serious complications and your symptoms start to stabilize, you can start your physiotherapy treatment in Winnipeg, usually within a week. The expert physiotherapists in Winnipeg or wherever you reside will closely monitor your condition and incorporate gentle hands-on techniques. Early intervention helps manage the symptoms effectively and speeds up functional recovery, especially for athletes or active individuals.
Can Physical Therapy Help Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome occurs when concussion symptoms last more than weeks or months after the initial injury. Just as physical therapy helps speed up healing after the injury, it also plays an important role in recovering from post-concussion syndrome. Physiotherapists use various techniques and approaches to minimize the lingering effects of PCS. This therapy helps address the physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that are common with PCS.
Conclusion
Mild traumatic brain injuries, including a concussion, can temporarily disrupt your life, but it does not have to control it. With personalized physiotherapy, you can speed up the healing process and reduce long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms associated with a concussion. Whether it’s relieving headaches, improving balance, supporting visual recovery, or ensuring a safe return to activity, physiotherapy for concussion can significantly enhance the recovery journey.
Looking for concussion physiotherapy in Winnipeg? Book your consultation at Bridgwater Physiotherapy today. Our clinic offers personalized physical therapy services to individuals of all ages, ranging from massage therapy, athletic therapy, and acupuncture. Contact Us to book an appointment today.
