CONCUSSION
Not just a knock to the head
Concussion Assessment
Getting an accurate picture of what's actually going on is the first step. A comprehensive concussion assessment looks at balance, oculomotor (eye movement) function, vestibular system integrity, cervical spine health, and Autonomic Nervous System status — because concussion rarely affects just one system in isolation. Baseline testing before injury (particularly valuable for athletes) is also strongly recommended, giving a clear reference point to measure recovery against if a concussion does occur.
Concussion Recovery
Recovery from concussion isn't one-size-fits-all, and it isn't always about rest alone. Every recovery timeline is different, shaped by the nature of the injury, your symptoms, and your day-to-day demands — whether that's returning to elite sport, getting back to a desk job, or simply managing daily life without dizziness or fatigue. Active, guided rehabilitation — introduced at the right time and paced correctly — plays a central role in getting people back to full function, rather than passively waiting for symptoms to pass.
Concussion Management
For concussion symptoms that linger beyond the expected recovery window — often called post-concussion syndrome — ongoing, symptom-led management makes the difference. This means regularly reassessing what's driving your symptoms and adjusting your care accordingly, whether that involves vestibular rehabilitation, cervical spine treatment, graded exertion programs, or coordinating with other health providers where needed. The goal is steady, measurable progress rather than a fixed protocol applied regardless of how you're actually responding.
Concussion Treatment
Treatment is built around what your assessment reveals, drawing on a combination of vestibular rehabilitation, oculomotor retraining, cervical spine therapy, and Autonomic Nervous System-focused interventions. Rehabilitation is never generic — programs are built for the individual, whether you're a high-level athlete working toward graded return-to-sport, or someone simply trying to get back to daily activities without symptoms holding you back.
Head Injury Treatment: Why Early Care Matters
Any head injury — not just a diagnosed concussion — deserves prompt attention. Left unassessed, head injuries can lead to prolonged symptoms and slower recovery. Early, accurate assessment gives you the best chance of a smooth, well-managed recovery, whatever the severity of the injury.
A concussion is a significant neurological injury — regardless of whether you lost consciousness or not. The idea of a “minor head knock” is misleading and can delay the assessment that actually matters. Concussion isn't just a brain injury: it's an inflammatory process that affects your Autonomic Nervous System, including your gut and immune system. That's why symptoms extend well beyond headaches — neck pain, dizziness, balance disturbances, mood changes, sleep disturbances, light and noise sensitivity, brain fog and fatigue are all part of the picture.
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in concussion care, no matter how long ago the injury happened. With advanced training through the Complete Concussion Management Institute (CCMI), Dr Jessica Povall provides thorough, evidence-informed care for concussion — from the first 48 hours through to complex, long-standing post-concussion presentations.
