Strategies For Reducing Concussion Symptoms With Physiotherapy

Concussions, though often subtle in initial symptoms, can lead to significant health challenges without proper management.

Concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton provides a structured approach to concussion management, helping patients mitigate symptoms and accelerate recovery. By integrating evidence-based techniques, physiotherapists play a crucial role in guiding patients through a safe return to daily activities and sports, ensuring each step is taken with the utmost care for brain health and overall well-being. This proactive engagement alleviates symptoms and educates individuals on the importance of effectively recognizing and responding to concussions.

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) 

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy focuses on addressing balance issues and dizziness that are common after a concussion. This form of therapy helps retrain the brain and body to compensate for changes in the vestibular system. 

Balance Training Exercises

These exercises aim to improve stability and coordination. Examples include one-leg standing, walking heel-to-toe, and using balance boards.

How to Perform Single-Leg Stand Exercise:

Stand next to a stable chair or countertop for support. Raise one foot off the ground and maintain balance on the standing leg, engaging the core muscles to help stabilize the body. Maintain this position for 20-30 seconds. Close the eyes or stand on an unstable surface like a balance pad or pillow to increase the difficulty. Perform 3-4 sets on each leg twice a day.

Gaze Stabilization Exercises

These exercises improve control of eye movements and reduce symptoms like dizziness and visual disturbances.

How to Perform VOR (Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex) Training:

Sit or stand in a comfortable position. Focus on a stable object at eye level and move the head from side to side while keeping the eyes fixed on the object. Start with slow movements and slowly increase speed as tolerated. Perform this exercise for 1-2 minutes several times a day.

Habituation Exercises

These exercises involve repeated exposure to movements or environments that trigger symptoms, helping the brain adapt and reduce symptom severity over time.

How to Perform Head Movements:

Sit or stand comfortably. Move the head in different directions (side to side, up and down) to trigger mild dizziness. Begin with slow, small movements and gradually increase the speed and range of motion as tolerance improves. Perform these exercises for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times daily.

Cervical Spine Therapy

Concussions often result in cervical spine issues, which can contribute to headaches and neck pain. Cervical spine therapy alleviates neck pain and improves mobility through manual therapy, strengthening exercises, and postural education.

Manual Therapy

Physiotherapists use hands-on techniques to improve neck mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain. Techniques include gentle joint mobilizations and soft tissue massage.

Strengthening Exercises

These exercises strengthen and stabilize the neck muscles.

How to Perform Chin Tucks:

Sit or stand with a straight back. Pull the chin back, creating a double chin effect without tilting the head forward or backward. Hold for 5-10 seconds, then relax. Perform 10-15 repetitions, 2-3 times a day.

Isometric Neck Exercises

These exercises focus on strength and stability in the neck muscles without movement.

How to Perform Isometric Neck Flexion:

Sit or stand with a straight back. Place a hand on the forehead and gently push the head forward while resisting with the hand, creating a static contraction. Hold for 5-10 seconds, then relax. Perform 10-15 repetitions, 2-3 times a day.

Cognitive Rehabilitation 

Cognitive rehabilitation addresses cognitive deficits that may result from a concussion, such as memory loss, attention issues, and difficulty with problem-solving. Techniques include memory exercises, attention training, and problem-solving tasks. These exercises help enhance cognitive functions and aid patients in returning to their daily routines.

Memory Exercises

These exercises enhance memory function by regularly challenging the brain to recall and retain information.

How to Perform Memory Card Game:

Use a set of memory cards or a digital memory game application. Choose cards with matching pairs. Lay the cards face down and flip two cards at a time, trying to remember their positions and match the pairs. Continue until all pairs are found. Increase the number of cards as memory improves to enhance the challenge. Engage in memory games for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a week.

Attention Training

These exercises aim to improve focus and attention span through various engaging activities.

How to Perform Attention Training with Mindful Meditation:

Find a quiet, comfortable space free from distractions. Sit or lie down in a relaxed position. Close the eyes and focus on the breath, taking slow, deep breaths in and out. Pay attention to the sensation of breathing and any thoughts that arise, gently bringing the focus back to the breath whenever the mind wanders. Start with 5-10 minute sessions and gradually increase the duration as the attention span improves. Practice mindful meditation for 10-15 minutes daily.

Problem-Solving Tasks

These tasks enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills through various challenging activities.

How to Perform Problem-Solving with Puzzles:

Use puzzles such as jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, or Sudoku. Choose a puzzle appropriate for the skill level and work on solving it by focusing on strategies and logical thinking. Start with simpler puzzles and gradually move to more complex ones as skills improve. Spend 15-20 minutes on problem-solving tasks 3-4 times a week.

Concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton offers treatments to address the unique challenges associated with concussions, promoting effective recovery and improving quality of life.

Overcoming Concussion Challenges

At Vertex Physiotherapy, we are committed to providing comprehensive concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton, helping individuals manage and reduce concussion symptoms effectively. Our team of experts is trained in the recent therapeutic techniques to ensure a recovery process that is both safe and effective, enabling patients to return to their day-to-day activities with confidence. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of a concussion, do not hesitate to contact Vertex Physiotherapy. Together, we can work on a successful recovery and ensure that you receive the support and care needed to overcome the challenges associated with concussion symptoms.