Concussion

What is a Concussion?

The general definition of concussion means the act of forcefully shaking or jarring. A sports concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a shaking or jarring of the brain. A sports concussion can occur with a bump, blow or jolt to the head or the body which causes the brain to move within the skull. This movement causes the brain to hit the inside of the skull which can result in a change in brain cell chemistry and structural injury from cell stretching. This damage can result in a variety of signs and symptoms depending on the portion of the brain involved during a sports concussion.

Are concussions serious?

There is a dangerous trend of equating an injury with how visible the problem is. Of course, a broken bone or a torn ligament is going to create a scene, but this isn’t a failsafe way to judge an injury. When an athlete blows out their knee it becomes something that everyone can see, and the pain on the player’s face merely confirms what everyone else is already thinking: that injury is real, that injury is painful, that person is going to need medical attention.

Sports concussions are described as “mild” traumatic brain injuries because concussions are not usually life-threatening. However, concussions are brain injuries and can lead to serious long-term consequences if not managed correctly by a qualified healthcare professional.

Are concussions visible?

Head injuries aren’t typically as visible. When someone hits their head on TV, they may become unconscious for a moment or they may be able to stand up right away. They might look dazed or need a minute to regain their ability to think straight, but then they can walk off the field just fine. The injury doesn’t look as serious. And too often it isn’t treated as seriously. 

A broken bone may be visible, but a concussion is in many ways far more serious of a problem. A brain injury requires immediate and ongoing care to ensure that the brain can regain optimal functionality. On television, injuries that turn out to be “just a concussion” are often anti-climactic events that the audience is led to believe will be over in days, if not hours. In real life, however, these traumatic brain injuries — which usually stem from a fall, severe shaking, a car accident, or a direct blow to the head — can severely impact a person’s quality of life for several months.

A cold is typically more obvious than a chronic disease, but that doesn’t make the chronic disease any less difficult to deal with. The chronic disease is typically significantly more serious and complicated than the typical cold. You should not overlook a concussion. Following brain injury, whether as a result of a sports incident, a car accident, a trip, and fall, or another event, concussion therapy is necessary to ensure that there is no lasting damage following the trauma.

Finding Concussion Therapy Post-Trauma

The severity of a traumatic brain injury can vary dramatically. While some concussions are indeed minor, and may not require long-term intervention, other brain injuries can have lifelong consequences.

In the immediate hours and days following a traumatic brain injury, the best treatment option is to take it easy. Resting your brain means turning off everything that will stimulate your mind and simply relaxing. This means avoiding television, not reading, avoiding intense music, conversation, and too much movement. This may not sound like a very entertaining time, but this is what your brain needs to recover. Just like you’d put your feet up for a day or two after injuring your ankle, you need to give your brain time to rest and recover after an injury.

During this time, it isn’t likely that you’ll be referred to concussion therapy. The important thing is to check in with your doctor for treatment and to have your brain injury assessed, and then follow post-concussion protocols to give your brain a chance to bounce back. Rest is absolutely the best way to deal with the uncomfortable symptoms that happen with a concussion, which include vomiting, confusion, weakness, and headaches.

If the symptoms have dissipated after a few days, physiotherapy is recommended. Seeking out concussion therapy early on can prevent long-term issues and help you experience a quicker return to normalcy.

Without therapeutic intervention, long-term symptoms can include:

• Chronic headaches
• Fatigue
• Changes in weight
• Sleep disorder
• Muscle weakness and spasms
• Decreased libido
• Disrupted menstruation and infertility

Your Questions About Concussion Management and Cognitive Rehabilitation Answered: 

How long should I wait before seeking treatment if I suspect I have a concussion?

Never wait if you have a brain injury, even if it is a mild one. Visit a clinic as soon as possible and go to the emergency room if your symptoms are severe. Follow up by going to a concussion treatment center for a plan to reduce your pain and restore your brain’s function faster.

Is Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) always an indicator of dementia or Alzheimer’s?

No. MCI is a stage between more serious issues like Alzheimer’s. It can also be caused by several things, from a poor diet and sedentary lifestyle to illness and advanced age. There are a few Myths about the Concussion related Memory problem. Your physiotherapist will assess you to determine contributing factors. Treatment will help to improve your symptoms. 

Why should I seek concussion management if my injury will naturally improve with time?

The brain does not work in isolation. Pain in one area of the body affects the body as a whole. Additionally, brain injuries can take a long time to heal. Therefore, your overall wellness is significantly affected while you recover. As the brain is your body’s most important muscle, it’s important to restore its function as quickly and safely as possible. Our concussion management treatments and cognitive rehabilitation services in Edmonton help you fully recover faster.

Can I choose my physiotherapy clinic even if my insurance recommends one?

Yes. While your insurance company may recommend a clinic for concussion treatment in Edmonton. However, you are free to select the physiotherapist of your choice. This is as long as they are a licensed facility within the city or province.

Is the Concussion Treatment Centre in Edmonton Affordable Place?

Our direct billing makes concussion treatment and cognitive rehabilitation therapy in south Edmonton convenient and affordable. Let us check your benefit plan and tell you what is covered. Our affordable rates for those without coverage mean you can get the treatment you need.

What is the ProActive approach to concussion management and cognitive rehabilitation?

Our approach for each patient is completely different because no two people are the same. We start with a very in-depth assessment of your condition and lifestyle factors, and then design a Research-Based Treatment Plan that takes into account your injuries and your current fitness level.

How do I find the best Concussion Treatment Centre in Edmonton?

Your doctor may refer you, or you can call and book with us directly without a referral. Never take your brain health for granted. Contact us today.

When to seek help for a concussion?

Left untreated, concussions can even inhibit growth in young children and bring on early dementia in older patients. Fortunately, the physiotherapy field is continually discovering new ways to help patients suffering from long-term concussion complications. If you believe you have suffered a concussion, please contact ProActive Physiotherapy so we can do a thorough exam and get you on a recovery plan.