Physical therapy treatment after a concussion

A concussion can occur following an impact to the head or body. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, blurred vision, dizziness, or feeling “slowed down.” Although these symptoms are often temporary, they can interfere with daily life and delay a return to normal activities. The role of the physiotherapist is to guide you through every stage of your recovery.

1. During the first few days: guidance and symptom management

Recovery begins with a short period of relative rest, meaning avoiding significant physical or cognitive exertion while remaining active within your tolerance limits.

During your initial appointment, we complete a thorough assessment of your symptoms, physical abilities, and activity tolerance. We guide you on what to do — and what to avoid — during the first few days to promote optimal recovery.

2. Gradual return to activities

As your symptoms begin to improve, we help you progressively return to your daily, academic, professional, and sports activities.

Together, we create a clear step-by-step plan to gradually increase activity intensity without worsening symptoms.

Our role is to support you through this process safely while adapting the plan based on your progress.

3. Targeted treatments based on your symptoms

Every concussion is different. That’s why physiotherapy treatment is tailored to your specific needs. Depending on your condition, treatment may focus on:

• Neck pain or muscular tension
• Dizziness and balance problems
• Vestibular symptoms (motion sensitivity, unstable vision)
• Exercise tolerance and return to training
• Tolerance to movement, screens, and activities combining physical and cognitive demands

Exercises and treatment techniques are adjusted throughout your recovery.

4. Return to work, school, or sport

We guide you through your return to normal activities, including:

• Temporary task modifications if needed
• Exercises specific to your work, school, or sport
• Supervised return to physical activity until full unrestricted participation

Each stage is monitored to ensure your body and brain tolerate progression properly.

5. Ongoing follow-up and referrals when needed

If symptoms persist longer than expected or recovery plateaus, your physiotherapist may refer you to the appropriate healthcare professionals (physician, neuropsychologist, occupational therapist). The goal is to provide coordinated and comprehensive care.

In summary

In physiotherapy, our role is to support you through every stage of concussion recovery by helping you:

• Understand your symptoms
• Navigate the first few days safely
• Structure a gradual and safe return to activities
• Treat persistent symptoms
• Return fully to your regular activities

With appropriate guidance and follow-up, most individuals recover fully and safely return to their activities with confidence.

What should you do after a concussion, and what should you avoid?

If a concussion is suspected — whether following a fall, accident, blow to the head, or impact — you should stop all activities, rest, and avoid returning too quickly to your usual tasks. Symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if they persist or worsen.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Loss of consciousness
• Repeated vomiting
• Confusion
• Unusual drowsiness
• Worsening headaches
• Seizures
• Vision, speech, or balance problems
• Weakness or numbness

Recovery time

Recovery from a concussion varies from person to person. In most cases, symptoms improve within a few days to a few weeks. However, some individuals may experience longer-lasting symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, concentration difficulties, or light sensitivity.

Returning to activities too quickly may prolong recovery. It is therefore important to resume activities gradually.

Book an appointment with a physiotherapist specialized in concussion management (CCMI) for personalized guidance and a safe return to your activities.

Reference

Institut national d’excellence en santé et en services sociaux (INESSS). Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (Concussion) – Information Sheet for Patients, Families and Care Providers. Québec; 2021.