Concussion and You: What to Expect and How Physiotherapy Helps Recovery

Concussion is one of the most misunderstood injuries in sport, at work, and in everyday life. For decades, the standard advice was simple: rest in a dark room until symptoms resolved. Current clinical evidence has shifted significantly. While initial rest is appropriate in the first 24–48 hours, prolonged inactivity can actually delay recovery. Physiotherapy, guided by a trained concussion specialist, plays a critical role in safe and effective rehabilitation.

What Happens in a Concussion

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a direct or indirect force to the head that disrupts normal brain function. The injury does not typically cause structural damage visible on standard imaging — instead, it disrupts the brain’s metabolic and chemical processes, causing symptoms such as headache, dizziness, sensitivity to light and sound, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbance, and mood changes.

Most concussions resolve within 10–14 days. However, a significant proportion of patients — particularly those who do not receive appropriate early management — develop post-concussion syndrome, where symptoms persist for weeks or months. Early physiotherapy assessment is one of the most effective strategies for preventing prolonged recovery.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Concussion Recovery

Concussion rehabilitation at RCP Health Oakville addresses the specific physiological systems that are commonly disrupted. Three areas are typically assessed and treated:

Cervicogenic (neck-related) symptoms — The force that causes a concussion often also injures the cervical spine. Neck muscle guarding, joint dysfunction, and soft tissue injury contribute to headaches, dizziness, and pain that are distinct from — but overlap with — true concussion symptoms. Manual therapy and targeted neck exercises address the cervicogenic component.

Vestibular dysfunction — The vestibular system in the inner ear is commonly affected by concussion, producing dizziness, balance difficulties, and visual motion sensitivity. Vestibular physiotherapy uses specific repositioning manoeuvres and gaze stabilisation exercises to retrain the system.

Graded aerobic exercise — Research shows that carefully progressed aerobic exercise, titrated below the symptom threshold, accelerates metabolic recovery and reduces symptom burden. This is conducted using standardised protocols such as the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test to establish safe exercise intensity.

Signs You Should See a Physiotherapist After a Concussion

Not every concussion requires physiotherapy — many resolve with appropriate rest and graduated return to activity. Consider booking an assessment at RCP Health Oakville if:

• Symptoms persist beyond 10–14 days
• You are experiencing ongoing dizziness, headaches, or balance problems
• You feel foggy, anxious, or are struggling with concentration
• You have previously had concussions and want a structured return-to-sport protocol
• You need clearance for a school, work, or sport return

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough concussion assessment covering symptom history, cervical spine function, vestibular and oculomotor testing, and aerobic tolerance. From this, a personalised rehabilitation plan is established with clear benchmarks guiding each stage — from symptom management through to full return to sport or activity.

No referral is required. If you are in Oakville or the surrounding area and are dealing with persistent concussion symptoms, Book your assessment today.