Concussions

What Is A Concussion?

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A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury caused by a sudden bump, blow, or jolt to the head. This impact causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth, disrupting normal brain function. It’s a complex neurological event that may result in a wide range of symptoms.

Should I See A Medical Professional?

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If you’ve had any kind of head injury — even a minor one — it’s important to get evaluated by a healthcare provider, especially a sports medicine or concussion specialist. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Anyone who experiences a hit to the head should be medically assessed.
• Around 80–90% of concussions resolve on their own, with most adolescents and adults returning to full function within two weeks.
• Recovery may take longer for younger athletes — sometimes up to four weeks.
• If symptoms linger or worsen beyond the expected timeframe, collaborative care with multiple medical professionals may be necessary.

What Can A Physical Therapist Do To Help?

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Physical therapists play a key role in concussion recovery, especially when symptoms persist. Seek physical therapy if you’re experiencing any of the following:

• Difficulty balancing or walking normally
• Neck discomfort or stiffness
• Trouble concentrating or focusing
• Frequent dizziness
• Ongoing headaches
• Low tolerance for exercise or physical activity

Physical therapists are trained to evaluate and treat post-concussion symptoms. They can help you safely return to daily activities or sports by guiding you through a graded exposure rehab program tailored to your condition.

Return-to-sport progressions are a key component of concussion rehabilitation. Before an athlete resumes full participation, all concussion-related symptoms must be fully resolved to ensure a safe and successful return to play.

Continuing to play after a concussion can worsen symptoms, delay recovery, and significantly increase the risk of Second Impact Syndrome — a potentially life-threatening condition.

• 1. Rest & Symptom Management
  This first phase focuses on rest and gentle activity to support brain recovery. The goal is to return to basic daily tasks that don’t trigger symptoms — this might include light walking or simple household chores.
• 2. Light Cardiovascular Exercise
  Once symptoms have stabilized, athletes can ease into low-intensity aerobic activities like walking or using a stationary bike. The focus here is to gradually raise heart rate without causing symptom flare-ups.
• Sport-Specific Movements
  With continued improvement, athletes can reintroduce sport-specific drills — such as skating or running — while still avoiding contact or any high-impact movements.

• 4. Non-Contact Practice Drills
  At this stage, athletes can take part in non-contact practice sessions that simulate real gameplay, such as passing or movement drills, but without physical contact.
• 5. Full Practice with Contact
  Once cleared and symptom-free through prior stages, athletes may return to full-contact practice. This step occurs under supervision, with careful monitoring to ensure symptoms do not return.
• 6. Return to Play
  The final phase allows a full return to competitive play and unrestricted practice, provided the athlete remains completely symptom-free.