Concussions 101

What is a concussion
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The most common type of traumatic brain injury, a concussion is caused by a direct or indirect impact to the head. The brain, suspended in fluid within the skull, moves rapidly back and forth causing bruising, damage to blood vessels within the brain, and injury to the nerves of the brain. 
This results in the brain having difficulty functioning and processing information appropriately. Being the operation centre of the body, the signs and symptoms can vary drastically for each case.
 
Because of this, concussions can be difficult to diagnose. However, some signs and symptoms and more common and should be used to help identify a possible concussion.
 
Identifying a concussion

• Confusion                                            - Memory Loss
• Clumsiness                                          - Difficulty concentrating
• Slurred speech                                    - Ringing in ears
• Nausea or vomiting                            - Sensitivity to light
• Headache                                             - Sensitivity to noise
• Dizziness                                              - Blurred vision
• Decreased balance

 
If you suspect a concussion, whether you’re an athlete, a parent, a coach, or an onlooker – it’s important to speak out and seek the appropriate help.
 
Recovering from a concussion

In many cases, full recovery from a concussion will take 2-4 weeks. During this time, the brain is expending energy to recover from the injury and recalibrating blood flow, chemical balances, nerve conduction, and sensory input.
 
During this initial recovery period, it’s important to slowly and delicately expose yourself to stimuli while staying within a range that does not overexert the brain.
It's estimated that 10-30% of people who have sustained a concussion suffer from post-concussion syndrome, where signs or symptoms persist for months or even years following the original injury. With appropriate treatment, which includes physiotherapy treatment, full recovery can often be achieved. 
 
Function Physiotherapy is pleased to offer specialized treatment for post-concussion syndrome signs and symptoms including headaches, dizziness, double vision, blurry vision, light and noise sensitivity, and much more. Treatments are tailored and provided by our specially trained physiotherapists in our concussion room. Our concussion room is meant to provide the most comfort possible to our clients featuring adjustable, dim lighting and sound proofing. 

If you have questions about physiotherapy for post-concussion syndrome, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at [email protected] or call us now at 613-680-6505. 

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