Concussions

What is a concussion?

A concussion occurs when there is a direct or indirect impact to the head, causing a sudden movement of the brain inside the skull, which may result in brain injuries or disruptions to brain function. The impact can come from an external force directly to the head, or an external force indirectly to the neck, face, or any other part of the body, transmitting an impulsive force to the brain.

What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?

After a concussion, signs and symptoms can vary from one individual to another. The clinical picture depends greatly on several factors, including age, the number of previous concussions, the time since the last concussion, and other health predispositions, such as a history of migraines, learning disorders, or possibly other genetic factors.
The list of recognized signs and symptoms of a concussion includes over 20 items, including but not limited to:

What are the consequences of a concussion?

A concussion impacts various aspects of a person, including the vestibular system, the ocular system, cognitive function, fatigue, post-traumatic migraines, the cervical region, as well as mood and anxiety. The concussion and its symptoms directly affect participation in daily activities, return to physical and sports activities, and the return to cognitive activities such as school and work. Early detection of the concussion is crucial for proper management from the outset, in order to avoid a premature return to activities that could increase the risk of subsequent concussions or persistent post-concussion symptoms.

How should a concussion be managed?

When a concussion is suspected following an impact or injury, it is recommended that the individual undergo a period of rest from physical, intellectual, and social activities, along with a monitoring period lasting at least 24-48 hours, and up to 72 hours depending on the case. During this time, special attention should be given to any symptoms that may indicate a more serious injury requiring emergency intervention.

While complete rest is essential, prolonged rest can also have undesirable effects, especially when there is a premature return to learning activities and sports.

For this reason, an athlete or anyone who has experienced a concussion may benefit from a thorough evaluation and management by a healthcare professional with expertise in concussion management.

Fortunately, we are here to help!

What to expect during our sessions

At the Physio Familiale clinic, we are dedicated to your rehabilitation and we offer care using the most updated technology and training.

Dans la prise en charge d’une personne ayant subi une commotion cérébrale, l’évaluation initiale dure généralement 90 minutes, et les rendez-vous subséquents durent généralement 45-60 minutes selon la complexité.

During the first session, we assess your physical condition, symptoms, and functional abilities to create a personalized treatment plan. In follow-up sessions, the physiotherapist will apply various therapies, prescribe exercises, and offer advice to support your recovery. 

During follow-up appointments, the physiotherapist may apply various treatment approaches, prescribe personalized exercises, and provide relevant self-management advice and tools to improve posture, muscular stress, pain and your physical well-being.

"We offer a personalized approach to help individuals achieve their health goals in prevention, rehabilitation, and performance."