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Concussion Management

Evidence-based assessment and return-to-activity care.

Clinician performing a concussion assessment on a patient

Concussion isn't just rest anymore

Modern concussion care is structured, active, and individualised. The old advice of 'lie in a dark room until you feel better' has been replaced by graded protocols that combine rest, controlled activity, and targeted rehabilitation.

Most concussions resolve in 7–14 days. When symptoms persist past 4 weeks — headaches, dizziness, light sensitivity, brain fog, fatigue — that meets criteria for post-concussion syndrome and benefits from focused physiotherapy.

Therapist guiding a patient through a balance assessment as part of concussion management

When this helps

  • Vestibular work

    Treating dizziness and motion sensitivity at the inner-ear and visual-motion system.

  • Cervical spine

    The neck is almost always involved post-concussion and is the most-missed driver of persistent headaches.

  • Graded exertion

    A structured return-to-activity plan that ladders load without provoking symptoms.

  • Return-to-sport / school

    Stepwise protocols clearing each stage before the next.

  • Cognitive load tolerance

    Building back the ability to concentrate, read, and screen-work without symptom return.

What to expect at your first visit

First visit is 45–60 minutes — symptom inventory, balance assessment, oculomotor screen, cervical exam. We coordinate with your physician and refer to specialists when needed. Sessions are typically weekly for 4–8 weeks depending on severity.

Common questions

How long does concussion recovery take?

Most concussions resolve in 7–14 days with appropriate rest and graded activity. Symptoms that persist beyond 4 weeks meet criteria for post-concussion syndrome and benefit from structured treatment — vestibular work, oculomotor exercises, graded exertion, and cervical spine treatment. Recovery from prolonged cases ranges weeks to months.

Should I see a physiotherapist for concussion symptoms?

Yes — particularly if symptoms last more than a week, include dizziness or balance issues, or if you're returning to sport, school, or work. We work alongside your physician and can coordinate referrals to specialists when needed.

When can I return to sport after a concussion?

Return-to-sport follows a graded protocol — usually 5 stages over a minimum of 1 week per stage, with no symptom return between stages. Athletes under 18 follow more conservative timelines. We'll guide the protocol and clear each stage with you.

What is vestibular therapy for concussion?

Vestibular therapy targets the inner-ear and balance system — common drivers of post-concussion dizziness, motion sensitivity, and visual fatigue. Exercises retrain how your eyes, inner ear, and brain coordinate. Sessions are typically 30 minutes, weekly, for 4–8 weeks.

Is concussion treatment covered by insurance?

Most extended health plans cover it as physiotherapy. WCB covers work-related concussions; Alberta Auto Insurance covers MVA-related ones. We handle the paperwork.

We direct-bill most major insurers. Bring your card and we handle the paperwork.

WCB claims

Covered for approved work-injury claims, no out-of-pocket cost. We handle the assessment reports and return-to-work paperwork.

Alberta Auto Insurance (MVA)

Covered from the date of accident, no pre-approval needed for the first block of visits. We file everything your insurer requires.

Who provides this

All practitioners trained, registered, and continuing to learn.

Ready to feel better?

Book online in under 60 seconds, or give us a call.