Concussion Physiotherapy Edmonton

Care for Balance, Coordination, and Cognitive Changes

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Concussion physiotherapy treats the symptoms that persist after a head injury — dizziness, headaches, neck pain, visual sensitivity and exercise intolerance — using vestibular and vision retraining, neck treatment and graded activity. Many people improve within weeks; physiotherapy is recommended when symptoms last beyond about two weeks. Next Step's dedicated concussion clinic is NextStep Concussion; this Edmonton clinic provides assessment and care for concussion alongside neuro and MSK rehabilitation.

How Concussion Physiotherapy Edmonton Supports Recovery

Helping the Brain and Body Adapt After Head Trauma

Are concussion symptoms affecting your daily life?
Have you been experiencing headaches, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating after a head injury?
Do busy environments, screen time, or physical activity trigger symptoms such as fatigue, neck tension, or blurred vision?

Although concussions are often considered mild injuries, they can influence several body systems at the same time. Individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, concentration problems, visual disturbances, or sleep changes in the days following the injury.

Concussion physiotherapy Edmonton helps address these symptoms through structured evaluation, movement-based rehabilitation, and gradual reintroduction of daily activities. At Next Step Physio & Neurorehab Clinic, concussion treatment focuses on how the brain, neck, vision system, and balance mechanisms interact after head trauma so recovery can progress safely.

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What Is a Concussion?

A concussion occurs when the head or body experiences a sudden acceleration or deceleration force. This motion causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull, making temporary changes in how brain cells communicate.

Rather than structural damage visible on imaging, concussions primarily involve functional disturbances in brain activity. These changes can influence several processes, including balance regulation, visual tracking, cognitive processing, and muscular coordination.

Because the brain controls many systems simultaneously, concussion symptoms may affect multiple aspects of daily function at once.

Situations That Commonly Lead to Concussions

Concussions may occur in a wide range of everyday environments, not only in competitive sports.

Sports and Recreational Activities

Contact sports, cycling incidents, skiing falls, or collisions during physical activity can cause head impacts that lead to a concussion.

Falls and Household Accidents

Slipping on stairs, icy sidewalks, or uneven surfaces can cause sudden head movement even if the head itself is not directly struck.

Motor Vehicle Collisions

Quick front and backward movement of the head during accidents may result in brain movement inside the skull.

Workplace Injuries

Jobs involving physical labour, construction, or moving equipment can expose individuals to impacts that cause head trauma.

Sudden Whiplash Movements

Even without a direct blow to the head, strong neck acceleration can produce forces that affect brain function.

Bicycle or Scooter Accidents

Falls from bicycles, e-scooters, or skateboards can cause sudden head movement or impact with the ground. These incidents are common causes of concussion in both adults and adolescents.

Gym or Fitness Accidents

Dropping equipment, sudden loss of balance during workouts, or collisions in fitness environments can result in head impacts.

Playground Injuries

Children and adolescents may experience concussions during playground activities such as climbing, jumping, or falling from play structures.

Recreational Water Activities

Diving incidents, collisions while swimming, or slipping on wet surfaces near pools can lead to head injuries that cause a concussion.

Sudden Head Impact During Daily Activities

Accidental contact with doors, cabinets, or other hard surfaces can sometimes produce enough force to disrupt brain function.

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Common Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Symptoms may vary widely between individuals and may appear immediately or several hours after the injury.

Physical Symptoms

These are often the most noticeable signs of a concussion. These symptoms typically occur because the brain’s control over movement, sensory processing, and muscle coordination has been temporarily disrupted. Physiotherapy often focuses on addressing these physical changes through balance training, neck rehabilitation, and gradual activity progression.

Common physical symptoms include:

Persistent or pressure-like headaches

Many individuals experience headaches after a concussion due to changes in brain activity or tension in the neck and upper back muscles.

Dizziness or balance instability

Damage to the vestibular system can lead to unsteadiness when standing, walking, or turning the head.

Nausea or vomiting

Disturbances in the brain’s balance and sensory systems can sometimes cause nausea following a head injury.

Sensitivity to light or noise

Individuals may feel uncomfortable in bright environments or noisy spaces as the brain becomes more sensitive to external stimuli.

Neck discomfort or stiffness

Concussions often occur alongside neck strain, especially when the head moves rapidly during an impact.

Blurred or double vision

Difficulty focusing the eyes can occur when eye coordination is affected.

Fatigue or low physical energy

Individuals may feel unusually tired even after minimal physical activity.

Difficulty maintaining balance during movement

Walking on uneven surfaces or turning quickly may feel unstable.

Head pressure during physical activity

Symptoms may increase during exercise or movement if the brain is still sensitive to activity.

Cognitive Symptoms

Concussions can temporarily affect how the brain processes information. These cognitive changes may interfere with concentration, memory, and decision-making during everyday tasks.
Common cognitive symptoms include:

Difficulty concentrating

Tasks that require focus, such as reading, studying, or working on a computer, may become challenging.

Slower thinking or reaction time

Individuals may notice that processing information or responding to situations takes longer than usual.

Short-term memory challenges

Forgetting recent conversations or instructions can occur after a concussion.

Feeling mentally foggy

Many people describe a sensation of mental cloudiness or reduced clarity.

Trouble multitasking

Performing multiple tasks at the same time may feel overwhelming.

Difficulty following conversations

Processing verbal information can become slower during the early stages of recovery.

Reduced attention span

Maintaining focus for extended periods may be difficult.

Problems with problem-solving or decision-making

Tasks requiring quick thinking may take longer to complete.

Emotional and Behavioural Changes

Concussions can also influence emotional regulation because the brain areas responsible for mood and stress responses may be temporarily affected. These changes can appear subtle at first but may become noticeable during daily interactions.

Common emotional symptoms include:

Mood fluctuations

Individuals may experience changes in mood that were not present before the injury.

Irritability or frustration

Small challenges or everyday stressors may feel more overwhelming.

Increased anxiety

Some individuals feel nervous or worried during the recovery period.

Reduced tolerance to stress

Situations that normally feel manageable may become emotionally challenging.

Feeling overwhelmed in busy environments

Crowded or noisy spaces may increase emotional discomfort.

Lower motivation for daily activities

Tasks such as work, school, or exercise may feel more difficult to initiate.

Heightened emotional responses

Reactions to stress or frustration may become stronger than usual.

Sleep-Related Symptoms

Sleep disturbances are common after a concussion because the brain’s regulation of sleep cycles may be temporarily disrupted. Changes in sleep can also influence energy levels, concentration, and mood.

Common sleep-related symptoms include:

Trouble falling asleep

Individuals may find it difficult to settle into sleep during the night.

Sleeping more than usual

The brain may require additional rest while recovering from injury.

Daytime fatigue

Persistent tiredness can occur even after a full night of sleep.

Frequent waking during the night

Sleep may become fragmented or less restful.

Difficulty waking up in the morning

Individuals may feel unusually groggy or slow to start the day.

Irregular sleep patterns

Bedtime and waking schedules may shift during recovery.

Recognizing these symptoms early allows healthcare professionals to evaluate how the brain and body are responding after injury. Through structured concussion management in Edmonton, individuals can receive targeted treatment to address balance issues, neck symptoms, coordination challenges, and activity tolerance while supporting gradual recovery.

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Conditions That May Occur After a Concussion

A concussion can affect multiple systems responsible for movement, coordination, and sensory processing.

Vestibular Dysfunction

Vestibular dysfunction occurs when the concussion disrupts communication between the brain and the inner ear balance system, which may cause dizziness, motion sensitivity, unsteadiness while walking, and difficulty maintaining balance in visually busy environments.

Cervical Spine Dysfunction

Cervical spine dysfunction often develops because the rapid head movement during a concussion can strain the muscles, joints, and ligaments in the neck, resulting in headaches, reduced neck mobility, muscle tightness, and discomfort in the upper back and shoulders.

Oculomotor Impairment

Oculomotor impairment happens when the brain’s control of eye movement coordination is affected after the injury, which can make activities such as reading, focusing on screens, or tracking moving objects uncomfortable or difficult.

Postural Instability

Postural instability may develop when the concussion affects the brain’s ability to process body position and balance signals, leading to difficulty maintaining upright posture, walking confidently, or coordinating body movements.

Cognitive Processing Changes

Cognitive processing changes occur because the injury can temporarily affect how the brain processes and organizes information, which may result in slower thinking, difficulty concentrating, reduced mental stamina, and challenges with memory or multitasking.

Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex Dysfunction

This condition occurs when the connection between the vestibular system and eye movement control becomes disrupted after a concussion, causing symptoms such as blurred vision, dizziness during head movement, and difficulty stabilizing vision while walking or turning the head.

Exertional Intolerance

Exertional intolerance can occur when the brain’s ability to regulate blood flow and energy levels is temporarily altered after a concussion, which may cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or fatigue during physical activity or exercise.

Sensory Processing Sensitivity

After a concussion, the brain may become more sensitive to sensory input due to temporary changes in neural processing, which can lead to discomfort in bright lights, loud environments, or visually stimulating surroundings.

Balance and Coordination Deficits

Balance and coordination deficits develop when the brain struggles to integrate signals from the vestibular system, vision, and muscles after the injury, making movements such as walking, turning, or changing direction less stable.

Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches may occur when neck muscles and joints become irritated during the injury, resulting in headaches that start from the cervical spine and often worsen with neck movement or prolonged posture.

Addressing these conditions together is an important component of concussion treatment that involves improving neck mobility, retraining balance and vision systems, and gradually restoring coordination between the brain and body.

Early Recovery Guidelines After a Concussion

Initial management focuses on allowing the brain time to stabilize while avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.

Short-Term Physical Rest

Limiting strenuous activity during the first few days after a concussion helps reduce stress on the brain and nervous system. Activities like intense exercise, heavy lifting, or sports should be avoided until symptoms begin to improve, allowing the brain time to stabilize after the injury.

Cognitive Rest

Reducing activities that require significant mental effort can help you prevent symptoms from worsening. This may include limiting screen time, reading, studying, texting, or prolonged computer work. Giving the brain short periods of mental rest helps manage headaches, eye strain, and concentration difficulties.

Gradual Activity Reintroduction

As symptoms begin to improve, light physical activities such as short walks or gentle movement may be gradually reintroduced under the guidance of a physiotherapist. This gradual approach helps improve circulation and allows the brain to adapt to increasing activity levels without triggering symptoms.

Symptom Monitoring

Keeping track of symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or visual discomfort helps determine how the brain is responding to activity. Monitoring these changes allows physiotherapists to adjust physiotherapy strategies and guide the safe progression of recovery.

Maintain Regular Sleep Patterns

Sleep plays an important role in brain recovery. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and allowing adequate rest can help regulate the brain’s healing process and reduce fatigue or irritability associated with concussion symptoms.

Avoid Activities That Increase Risk of Re-Injury

During the early stages of recovery, it is important to avoid activities that could result in another head impact. The brain may be more vulnerable to additional injury during this time, so returning to sports or high-risk activities should only occur after professional evaluation.

Hydration and Balanced Nutrition

Proper hydration and balanced nutrition support overall recovery by providing the brain with proper nutrients and energy. Eating regular meals and drinking enough fluids may help manage fatigue and support healing processes.

Manage Environmental Stimuli

Bright lights, loud noises, and visually busy environments can sometimes worsen concussion symptoms. Adjusting lighting, reducing noise exposure, and taking breaks from stimulating environments can help manage sensory sensitivity during early recovery.

Gradual Return to Daily Responsibilities

Returning to school, work, or household activities should occur gradually as symptoms improve. Breaking tasks into shorter periods with rest breaks can help prevent mental or physical overload.

Follow Professional Guidance

Regular follow-up with healthcare providers, including physiotherapists trained in concussion management, helps ensure recovery progresses safely. Professional guidance allows physio programs to be adjusted based on how symptoms respond to activity.

Following these early recovery guidelines can help support the healing process after a concussion. Through structured concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton, individuals receive personalized strategies to manage symptoms, restore balance and coordination, and gradually return to their normal daily activities.

Why Concussions Should Not Be Ignored

Unlike many visible injuries, concussions often lack obvious external signs. A person may appear physically well but still experience significant neurological disruption.

When symptoms are overlooked or untreated, individuals may struggle with ongoing difficulties such as:

Persistent headaches

Headaches may continue for weeks if the brain and neck structures do not receive proper evaluation and care.

Reduced concentration at work or school

Cognitive symptoms may make it difficult to concentrate on tasks, follow conversations, or complete assignments efficiently.

Balance instability

Disruption in the brain’s balance systems may lead to unsteadiness while walking or difficulty navigating uneven surfaces.

Visual sensitivity

Light sensitivity, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing on screens may occur when eye movement coordination is affected.

Fatigue during everyday tasks

Activities that previously required little effort may cause significant tiredness as the brain uses more energy during recovery.

Difficulty with memory and information recall

Individuals may forget instructions, conversations, or tasks more easily.

Sleep disturbances

Irregular sleep patterns or trouble falling asleep can develop as the brain’s sleep regulation is affected.

Increased sensitivity to noise or busy environments

Loud or crowded spaces may worsen symptoms due to changes in sensory processing.

Mood changes and irritability

Emotional responses may become stronger or less predictable following a concussion.

Neck pain and muscle tension

Rapid head movement during injury can strain neck structures, contributing to headaches and discomfort.

Early evaluation by healthcare professionals can help identify how the concussion is affecting different body systems. Through concussion physiotherapy, individuals receive targeted care that may address balance problems, neck mobility, visual coordination, and activity tolerance.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Concussion Management

Physiotherapy plays a significant role in helping the body regain normal coordination after head trauma. Treatment focuses on addressing the physical consequences of concussion while supporting the brain’s ability to adapt.

Physiotherapists assess several key areas, including:

Balance and Coordination

These are often affected after a concussion because the brain depends on information from the inner ear, eyes, and muscles to maintain stability. When these systems do not communicate efficiently, individuals may sense dizziness, unsteadiness, or difficulty walking in busy environments.

Physiotherapists evaluate how well the body maintains balance during standing, walking, and directional movements. Concussion physiotherapy may include balance exercises and coordination drills designed to improve stability and help you move with greater confidence.

Eye Movement Control

The brain coordinates eye movement to help maintain clear vision while reading, focusing on objects, or tracking movement. After a concussion, individuals may experience difficulty focusing, blurred vision, or discomfort when using screens.

Physiotherapists assess how the eyes track moving objects and shift focus between distances. Exercises aimed at improving eye coordination and visual tracking can help reduce visual strain and improve tolerance to reading or screen-based tasks.

Neck Mobility and Muscle Tension

The neck often experiences strain during a concussion because the head moves rapidly during the impact. Tightness in the neck muscles or restricted joint movement may contribute to headaches, stiffness, and upper-back discomfort.

Physiotherapists assess neck mobility, muscle tension, and posture to determine whether cervical spine involvement is contributing to symptoms. Treatment may include gentle mobility exercises and techniques aimed at improving neck movement and reducing muscle tightness.

Walking Mechanics and Posture

Walking Mechanics and Posture
Walking patterns and posture may change after a concussion due to disruptions in balance, coordination, or body awareness. Individuals may move more cautiously or feel unstable when walking on uneven surfaces or changing direction.

Physiotherapists evaluate walking mechanics, posture alignment, and movement patterns to identify areas of imbalance or instability. A physiotherapy clinic may include posture training and functional movement exercises that support safe and efficient walking.

Physical Tolerance to Activity

A concussion can affect how the body responds to physical exertion. Some individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, or fatigue during activities that previously felt manageable.

Physiotherapists assess how the body tolerates light physical activity and gradually introduce exercises that improve endurance without worsening symptoms. Controlled progression of activity helps you restore physical capacity while ensuring the brain adapts safely to increasing demands.

Physiotherapy Treatments for Concussion Symptoms

Concussion physiotherapy programs are designed to address the physical and neurological effects that occur shortly after a head injury. Because a concussion can affect multiple systems such as balance, vision, neck mobility, and coordination, physiotherapy often combines several therapeutic approaches tailored to the individual’s symptoms.

Treatment focuses on improving body awareness, restoring movement control, reducing dizziness and headaches, and helping individuals gradually return to daily activities without aggravating symptoms.

Concussion Assessment

Review of Symptoms and Injury History

The physiotherapist begins by discussing how the head injury occurred and what symptoms have developed since then. Questions may include headaches, dizziness, vision problems, fatigue, sleep changes, and concentration difficulties to understand how the concussion is affecting the body.

Balance and Coordination Testing

Balance assessments help determine how well the body maintains stability during standing and movement. Tests such as single-leg stance, tandem stance, and gait observation may be used to identify balance or coordination changes related to concussion.

Neck and Spine Mobility Examination

Rapid head movement during a concussion can strain the cervical spine. Our physiotherapists evaluate neck range of motion, muscle tension, and posture to identify stiffness or areas that may contribute to headaches and discomfort.

Eye Movement and Visual Tracking Assessment

Eye coordination is assessed using tests such as smooth pursuit tracking, saccadic eye movements, and near-point convergence. These assessments help determine whether visual control has been affected after the concussion.

Evaluation of Posture and Walking Patterns

Our physiotherapists observe gait mechanics, turning movements, and posture alignment to assess how balance and body awareness influence walking patterns following a concussion.

Vestibular Rehabilitation

Vestibular rehabilitation focuses on restoring communication between the brain and the inner ear balance system. When this system is disrupted by a concussion, individuals may experience dizziness, motion sensitivity, or unsteadiness while walking.

We may introduce exercises such as:

Gaze stabilization exercises (VOR x1 and VOR x2) to improve visual stability during head movement
Head-turn walking drills to help the brain adapt to motion
Standing balance exercises on stable and unstable surfaces
Habituation exercises that gradually expose the brain to movements that previously triggered dizziness

Visual Tracking and Eye Coordination Training

Concussions can disrupt how the brain coordinates eye movement and visual focus. This may lead to blurred vision, eye fatigue, or difficulty concentrating on screens or written text.

Physiotherapy treatments may include exercises such as:

Smooth pursuit exercises where the eyes follow a slowly moving target
Saccadic eye movement drills that improve quick eye shifts between targets
Near–far focus training to improve visual accommodation.
Eye–head coordination exercises to improve visual stability during movement

These techniques help restore comfortable visual tracking and improve tolerance to reading and screen use.

Cervical Spine Rehabilitation

Neck strain often accompanies a concussion because the head moves rapidly during the injury. Tight muscles, joint stiffness, or poor neck mobility can contribute to headaches and upper-body discomfort.

Cervical rehabilitation may include:

Gentle cervical range-of-motion exercises such as flexion, extension, and rotation movements
Deep neck flexor activation exercises to improve cervical stability
Scapular stabilization exercises that support posture and reduce neck strain

These exercises aim to improve neck movement, reduce muscular tension, and support proper posture.

Graded Exercise Therapy

After the initial rest period, gradually reintroducing physical activity can help improve circulation and regulate the body’s energy systems.

Our physiotherapists may introduce controlled aerobic activities such as:

Stationary cycling at low intensity
Slow treadmill walking
Light aerobic step training
Interval-based exercise progression

Exercise intensity is increased gradually while monitoring symptoms such as dizziness or headache. This approach helps restore physical endurance without overwhelming the brain.

Manual Therapy Techniques

Manual therapy involves hands-on treatment techniques that help reduce muscle tension and enhance joint mobility in the neck and upper spine.

Techniques commonly used during concussion physiotherapy include:

Soft tissue mobilization of the cervical muscles
Myofascial release for neck and upper-back tension
Gentle joint mobilization of the cervical and thoracic spine
Trigger point release for tight muscle areas

These treatments can help reduce headaches and improve comfort during daily movement.

Coordination and Reaction Training

Concussions may temporarily disrupt the brain’s ability to coordinate body movements and respond quickly to environmental changes.

Our physiotherapy may incorporate exercises such as:

Hand–eye coordination drills using therapy balls
Reaction-time training with visual cues
Multi-directional stepping exercises
Dynamic balance tasks involving head movement

These activities help retrain the brain’s ability to coordinate movement and respond to changing environments.

Gradual Return to Work, School, and Sport

Recovery from a concussion often requires a gradual progression back to daily responsibilities and physical activities. We help you guide this process to ensure that symptoms do not worsen as activity levels increase.

Return to Work or School

Individuals often begin with shorter periods of cognitive activity, such as brief reading or computer work sessions. Breaks are incorporated to prevent symptom flare-ups, and workload is gradually increased as concentration improves.

Return to Physical Activity

Light aerobic activities are introduced first, followed by moderate movement exercises. Activities that involve sudden direction changes or high physical intensity are added only when the individual tolerates earlier stages without symptoms.

Return to Sport Protocol

Athletes follow a staged progression that may include light aerobic exercise, sport-specific drills, non-contact training, and controlled practice sessions before returning to full participation.

We monitor each stage to ensure the brain adapts safely to increasing physical and cognitive demands.

Education and Prevention Strategies

Education plays an important role in concussion management. Understanding how concussions occur and how symptoms develop helps individuals make informed decisions during recovery.

Preventive strategies may include:

Learning proper sports techniques and safe movement patterns
Wearing appropriate helmets and protective equipment during high-risk activities
Recognizing early warning signs of head injury
Seeking professional evaluation after any significant head impact

Awareness and early action can help reduce the risk of repeated concussions.

Start Your Recovery With Concussion Physiotherapy

A concussion can affect concentration, balance, and daily function, even when symptoms appear mild at first. Concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton helps guide safe recovery and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

At Next Step Physio & Neurorehab Clinic, concussion physiotherapy focuses on restoring coordination between the brain and body through structured assessment and individualized treatment programs.

If you have experienced a head injury or are noticing symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or difficulty concentrating, scheduling a physiotherapy assessment can help you take the next step toward recovery.

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Meet the Team Supporting Concussion Physiotherapy in Edmonton

The concussion physiotherapy team at Next Step Physio & Neurorehab Clinic includes physiotherapists and complementary care providers experienced in neurological and musculoskeletal recovery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

General Questions About Concussion Physiotherapy

What is concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton?

Concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton focuses on evaluating and managing physical symptoms that occur after a head injury. Treatment may include balance training, neck rehabilitation, visual coordination exercises, and gradual activity progression to support recovery and restore normal function.

How does concussion physiotherapy help after a head injury?

Concussion physiotherapy helps address symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, neck stiffness, and balance problems. We assess how the injury affects movement and coordination, then guide rehabilitation exercises that help the brain and body gradually return to normal activity levels.

When should I see a physiotherapist for a concussion in Edmonton?

You may consider seeing a physiotherapist if symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, or difficulty concentrating continue after a head injury. Early physiotherapy assessment can help identify affected systems and guide appropriate concussion rehabilitation.

Can physiotherapy help manage concussion symptoms like dizziness and headaches?

Yes, physiotherapy can help manage symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and balance changes after a concussion. Treatments may include vestibular exercises, cervical spine therapy, and guided movement programs designed to support recovery.

How long does concussion recovery take with physiotherapy treatment?

Concussion recovery time varies depending on the individual and the severity of symptoms. Some individuals recover within a few weeks, while others may require a longer rehabilitation period. Physiotherapy helps guide gradual recovery and activity progression.

Do I need a doctor's referral for concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton?

In many cases, physiotherapy clinics in Edmonton allow direct access appointments without a doctor's referral. However, some insurance plans may request a referral for reimbursement, so it is helpful to check with your insurance provider.

Symptoms and Signs of a Concussion

What are the early symptoms of a concussion after a head injury?

Early concussion symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, stability problems, and sensitivity to light or noise. Some individuals may also experience fatigue or difficulty concentrating shortly after the injury.

Can dizziness and balance problems be signs of a concussion?

Yes, dizziness and balance instability are common symptoms of concussion. These symptoms may occur when the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation, is affected by the head injury.

Why do headaches occur after a concussion?

Headaches after a concussion may occur due to changes in brain activity, neck muscle strain, or irritation of surrounding tissues. Cervical spine tension and sensory changes following the injury can also contribute to headache symptoms.

Can a concussion affect concentration and memory?

Yes, a concussion can temporarily affect cognitive functions such as concentration, memory, and information processing. Individuals may experience mental fatigue or difficulty focusing on tasks such as reading or screen use.

Is neck pain common after a concussion injury?

Neck pain is common after a concussion because the head often moves rapidly during the injury, placing strain on the cervical spine. This may result in muscle tension, stiffness, or headaches originating from the neck.

Can concussion symptoms appear hours or days after the injury?

Yes, concussion symptoms do not always appear immediately. Some individuals can notice symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or concentration problems several hours or even days after the injury.

Concussion Treatment and Physiotherapy Exercises

What treatments are used in concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton clinics?

Concussion physiotherapy treatments may include vestibular rehabilitation, eye coordination exercises, cervical spine therapy, balance training, and gradual aerobic activity programs. These treatments are tailored to the individual’s symptoms.

Can vestibular therapy help with dizziness after a concussion?

Vestibular therapy can help reduce dizziness and improve balance after a concussion. Exercises such as gaze stabilization and balance training help restore the brain's ability to process signals from the inner ear and visual system.

What exercises are used during concussion rehabilitation?

Exercises used in concussion physiotherapy may include balance exercises, eye tracking drills, neck mobility exercises, and small aerobic activities like walking or stationary cycling.

How does physiotherapy help improve balance after a concussion?

Physiotherapy helps improve balance through targeted exercises that train the vestibular system, strengthen stabilizing muscles, and improve coordination between the eyes, inner ear, and body movements.

Can neck exercises reduce headaches related to a concussion?

Yes, neck exercises can help reduce headaches that are related to cervical muscle tension or joint stiffness. Improving neck mobility and muscle support can help reduce strain that contributes to headache symptoms.

When can I start exercise after a concussion injury?

Exercise is usually introduced gradually after the initial rest period, and once symptoms begin to improve. Our physiotherapist can guide you through safe activity progression to ensure exercise does not worsen symptoms.

Recovery, Safety, and Physiotherapy Services in Edmonton

Is concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton covered by insurance?

Many extended health insurance plans in Canada include coverage for physiotherapy services. Coverage for concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton may vary depending on the specific insurance plan and annual physiotherapy limits.

Can physiotherapy help with return to sport after a concussion?

Physiotherapy can support a gradual return to sport by guiding athletes through staged activity progression. This process helps ensure that balance, coordination, and physical tolerance have improved before full participation.

How do physiotherapists assess concussion symptoms?

Physiotherapists assess concussion symptoms by reviewing the injury history and evaluating balance, eye coordination, neck mobility, walking patterns, and tolerance to physical activity.

What should I expect during my first concussion physiotherapy appointment?

The first appointment typically includes a discussion about symptoms and injury history, followed by assessments of balance, eye movement, neck mobility, and posture. Based on these findings, a rehabilitation plan is developed.

Can physiotherapy help prevent long-term concussion symptoms?

Early physiotherapy care can help address symptoms and guide recovery before they become prolonged. Targeted physiotherapy may help improve balance, neck function, and activity tolerance.

Where can I find concussion physiotherapy treatment in Edmonton?

Many physiotherapy clinics in Edmonton provide rehabilitation services for concussion injuries. Clinics offering concussion physiotherapy evaluate symptoms and provide treatment programs tailored to each individual.

How can concussion physiotherapy help with a safe return to work or school?

Concussion physiotherapy supports a gradual return to work or school by guiding activity pacing, improving concentration tolerance, and managing symptoms such as headaches or fatigue during daily tasks.

Concussion Physiotherapy is part of our Neurological Physiotherapy program in Edmonton. Related services: Stroke Rehabilitation, Parkinson’s Physiotherapy, Multiple Sclerosis Physiotherapy, Cerebral Palsy Physiotherapy, Headache & Migraine Physiotherapy, Vertigo & Dizziness Treatment. Common questions: How long does physiotherapy take after a car accident?, Can BPPV be fixed in one visit?

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

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