Concussion Management

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury and it's critical to recognize the signs and symptoms and seek treatment when needed. A concussion can occur as a result of a car accident, slip & fall, sport, physical altercation and work place injury to name a few.

Common Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion: (this is a list of possible symptoms not a complete list, patients with a concussion may suffer from 1 or more of the following)

Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Changes in vision or hearing
Fatigue
Sleep disturbance (Sleeping more or less than usual)
Changes in Mood (irritability, sadness, nervousness)
Feeling "Foggy"

If you think you or someone you know may have a concussion, follow these steps.

Tell someone (family member, teacher, coach etc) and remove yourself from class/work/sport and rest until you are assessed by a medical professional (Physician, qualified Physiotherapist or Chiropractor).
If symptoms are severe or worsening seek immediate medical attention at your local emergency room.
Avoid all electronic devices including smart phones, computers, televisions, tablets, video games etc.
Schedule an appointment (289-897-9099) with a trained concussion management practitioner or your physician. Upon assessment the practitioner will provide you with further instructions, restrictions and recommendations specific to you and your situation. Our concussion management specialists can provide you with safe return to work, school and sport recommendations and documentation if needed. Every concussion is different and requires individual assessment and treatment for optimal recovery.

At Accelerated Health & Wellness Centre our practitioners have been trained through Shift Concussion Management in Guelph, Ontario.

What Treatment is Available for Post Concussion Syndrome?

Our practitioners are trained to assess patients suffering from concussion symptoms and determine what specific treatment and exercises they require. Patients suffering from post concussion syndrome may require a combination of the following:

Physical Hands-on Treatment for their neck pain, whiplash and/or headaches

Vestibular Rehabilitation to improve/resolve dizziness, vertigo and balance concerns

Visual Therapy to help re-train their visual system to function optimally

We also provide patients with a home exercise program and recommendations based on our clinical findings. In cases where more significant visual dysfunction is found we collaborate with IRIS in Welland, where we can refer patients to a trained optometrist for a more in depth vision assessment and possible vision therapy or prescription glasses if needed.

Provided by SHIFT CONCUSSION MNGT.