Concussion Physiotherapy in Burlington: Diagnosis, Treatment & Recovery Guide
- Folarin Babatunde PT PhD
- Apr 11
- 4 min read
Cogent Rehab Blog
Folarin Babatunde PT PhD MScSEM MScPT BScPT
April 11, 2025
Concussions are more common than many people realize. Whether from a sports injury, car accident, workplace incident, or fall, a concussion can disrupt your daily life and health in unexpected ways.
The good news? With early recognition and the right treatment plan, most people make a full recovery. In this post, we’ll explore what a concussion is, common symptoms to look out for, and how physiotherapy in Burlington can help with diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that happens when the brain is shaken or jolted inside the skull. This can occur from:
A direct blow to the head
Whiplash in a car accident
A fall or workplace accident
Contact sports like hockey, soccer, or football
Even if you don’t lose consciousness, a concussion can affect your brain chemistry, balance, vision, and mood. That’s why healthcare providers treat every concussion as a serious injury.
Common Causes of Concussion Injuries
Concussions can happen to anyone, at any age. The most frequent causes include:
Sports-related concussion physiotherapy needs – contact sports such as football, hockey, and soccer.
Car accident concussion treatment – whiplash or direct head impact.
Falls and workplace concussion injuries – especially common in older adults.
Violent events – including assaults or blast-related injuries.
Concussion Symptoms: Physical, Cognitive & Emotional Signs
Not all concussions look the same. Symptoms may appear immediately, or hours to days later. They can be grouped into physical, cognitive, and emotional categories.
Physical Concussion Symptoms: Headaches, Dizziness & Vision Problems
Headaches and migraines after concussion
Dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems
Double or blurred vision
Nausea, fatigue, or trouble sleeping
Sensitivity to light and noise
Cognitive Concussion Symptoms: Memory and Concentration Issues
Difficulty remembering details
Trouble focusing or slowed thinking
“Foggy” feeling
Poor decision-making or confusion
Emotional Concussion Symptoms: Mood Changes & Anxiety
Irritability or mood swings
Increased anxiety or depression
Restlessness or impulsivity
Decreased tolerance for stress
⚠️ Emergency warning signs: If you or a loved one experiences severe headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, or weakness/tingling in the arms and legs, seek urgent medical care immediately.
Concussion Physiotherapy in Burlington: How Treatment Helps Recovery
At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, physiotherapists play a key role in concussion care. Treatment may include:
Vestibular physiotherapy for dizziness and balance
Vision therapy for concussion recovery (eye movement exercises, screen tolerance training)
Exercise therapy for post-concussion treatment, including graded cardiovascular programs
Manual therapy to relieve neck pain and reduce headaches
Return-to-work or return-to-sport plans tailored to your lifestyle and goals
Our Burlington physiotherapists use evidence-based protocols to ensure you recover safely and effectively after your concussion.
Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for Persistent Symptoms
Some people experience post-concussion syndrome, where symptoms last weeks or even months. These may include ongoing headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating.
Concussion physiotherapy in Burlington can help manage these persistent post-concussion symptoms by addressing balance, vision, exercise tolerance, and neck-related pain.
Return to Sport After Concussion: Physiotherapy Guidelines for Athletes
Athletes face unique risks with concussions. Returning to sport too soon can lead to second-impact syndrome, which may cause permanent brain damage.
Our physiotherapists follow evidence-based return-to-play protocols, helping athletes safely progress from light activity to full competition.
Remember: it’s better to miss one game than the whole season.
Concussion Recovery Tips at Home: Rest, Exercise & Daily Care
While professional care is essential, you can also support your recovery at home :
Rest for the first 24–48 hours, then gradually reintroduce light activity.
Limit screen time, bright lights, and loud environments if symptoms worsen.
Stay hydrated and prioritize quality sleep.
Stop activity if symptoms return, and restart once they ease.
Never return to contact sports or heavy activity without medical clearance.
When to Seek a Doctor After Concussion: Urgent Warning Signs
Seek emergency care if you notice:
Severe or worsening headache
Repeated vomiting
Seizures or convulsions
Double vision or difficulty walking
Loss of consciousness or confusion
Tingling or weakness in arms or legs
Physiotherapists work closely with doctors, ensuring you receive the right level of care at the right time.
FAQs on Concussion and Physiotherapy
1. How long does concussion recovery take with physiotherapy?
Most people recover within 2–6 weeks. Some may take longer, especially if they have had multiple concussions or pre-existing conditions.
2. Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist for concussion?
No referral is required in Ontario. You can book directly with a physiotherapist.
3. Can physiotherapy help with post-concussion syndrome?
Yes. Physiotherapy is effective for treating ongoing symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
4. What is vestibular physiotherapy for concussion recovery?
It’s a specialized treatment to improve dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems that often occur after head injuries.
5. Should athletes return to play right after a concussion?
No. Returning too soon increases the risk of second-impact syndrome, which can cause permanent brain damage. Always follow a step-by-step return-to-play plan with a physiotherapist.
Final Thoughts: Concussion Treatment in Burlington With Physiotherapy
A concussion is a brain injury — but with the right care, recovery is possible. With the support of a trained physiotherapist, you can recover safely and return to work, school, and sport with confidence.
If you or someone you know has suffered a concussion, don’t wait.
Early treatment makes a difference.
Start Your Concussion Recovery in Burlington Today!
Call 905-635-4422 or Book an appointment online with a physiotherapist at Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington.
Sources
Patricios JS, et al. consensus statement on concussion in sport: the 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport - Amsterdam, October 2022. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2023;57:695–711.
Scorza KA and Cole W. Current concepts in concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management. American Family Physician. 2019;99:426-434.
Silverberg ND et al. Management of Concussion and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Synthesis of Practice Guidelines. Archives of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation. 2020;101:382-393.
Still A, Alexander M, Mannix R, MAdigan N, Pascual-Leone A, Meehan WP. Concussion: Evaluation and management. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. 2017;84:623-630.
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