Concussion
Concussion Treatment in Guelph
A concussion requires special treatment and care to ensure you make a full recovery. At Westwood Physiotherapy, our team is very experienced in concussion rehabilitation—helping you get back to your regular activities as quickly and as safely as possible.
If you’ve been on the hunt for concussion rehab in Guelph, look no further than Westwood Physiotherapy. Our caring and compassionate team is ready to help!
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a minor Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI). This type of brain injury happens when a bump or hit to the head causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth, hitting the skull and causing injury to the brain. This often results in a temporary reduction in brain function. Consequently, a person may experience:
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Fatigue
- Feeling foggy
- Ringing in the ear
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Balance issues
Ultimately, the symptoms of an individual’s concussion will depend on the severity of the injury. Luckily, most concussions are mild. However, it’s critical that you seek out immediate medical attention if you suspect you have suffered a concussion. Severe concussions can be life-threatening.
How Physiotherapy Helps Treat a Concussion
Physiotherapy can play a key role in your concussion recovery. Your physiotherapist, such as our experts at Westwood Physiotherapy in Guelph, begins your concussion treatment by performing a thorough assessment. This will involve questions about your symptoms and medical history, as well as a physical examination to assess your coordination, balance, and strength.
From there, your physiotherapist creates a treatment plan in accordance with your goals and symptoms. This may involve:
Strengthening and Stretching Exercises
These exercises frequently target the cervical spine, ensuring tension is reduced and strength is regained in this area. Some common concussion exercises may involve strengthening the neck flexors and maximizing the neck range of motion. Your physiotherapist prescribes exercises based on your assessment and symptoms.
Manual Therapy
A physiotherapist uses manual therapy to help reinstate the function of the joints and neck. This may involve traction, myofascial release techniques, and more, depending on what your assessment determines you need.
Balance Training
For many individuals with concussions, balance becomes an issue. Thus, as part of your rehabilitation, you may perform specific balance training exercises, such as standing on one foot.
Exertion Training
Many individuals further experience stamina and exertion issues. You might feel severely fatigued or unable to perform at the level you once had. Your physiotherapist helps in this regard by prescribing specific exercises and progressing as needed.
Visual Exercises
Your concussion rehab program in Guelph may include ocular reflex training, eye-tracking exercises, and other visual motor training to improve visual disturbances following a concussion.
Book Your Appointment Today!
The goal of physiotherapy post-concussion is to help you regain your previous functioning before your concussion. For very mild concussions, many make a recovery within a few weeks. For those with more severe concussions, recovery may be a more lengthy and ongoing process.
Either way, the Westwood Physiotherapy team is here for you. If you’re experiencing lingering concussion symptoms or require concussion treatment in Guelph, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. Call us at 519-341-5161 or use our online booking tool to book your appointment today.