Concussion Management

Concussion is a trauma that is not visible like other physical injuries. It is most often caused by a sudden shock to the head directly, but can also be due to the spread of the blow exerting force on the head.

It is sometimes difficult to detect because it does not leave visible traces on various medical imaging tests such as MRI, X-ray or SCAN. It is therefore all the signs and symptoms and the clinical examination that allow the health professional to make the diagnosis of concussion.

This pathology is complex, multidimensional and evolutionary and does not always manifest itself in the same way temporarily affecting the functioning of the brain, with different reactions from one individual to another.

Concussion in athletes is highly debated, but it is also common for a concussion to result from an event outside the sport practice (falls, car accidents, work accidents). Concussion affects children, adolescents and adults.

If you are the victim (or think you are a victim) of an impact on the brain, it becomes important to react as quickly as possible.

Regardless of the level of severity, concussion treatment should be started as soon as possible. An early return to usual activities can increase and maintain symptoms.

In order to guarantee a complete recovery, physiotherapeutic follow-up is strongly suggested. The physiotherapist will evaluate the following.

Physiotherapy Assessment

In the presence of a suspected concussion, a complete evaluation is carried out by the physiotherapist, taking into account subjective and objective data:

Subjective data:

• Signs and symptoms following concussion
• Neurological signs and symptoms
• State of consciousness, orientation and memory
• Pain

Objective data:

• Complete neurological examination: physical tests, integrity of brain structures and other damage.
• Cervical examination: mobility, strength, muscle tension
• Orthopedic examination: scan of the complete upper and lower limb
• Balance assessment and vestibular assessment as required

Treatments
:

The most effective post-concussion treatment is rest. Any physical activity or sport should be discontinued within 24-48 hours of the concussion. The physiotherapist will then establish a meticulous follow-up of the evolution of the symptoms. In addition, the physiotherapist will prescribe mobility, strengthening and cervical proprioception exercises or coordination and balance exercises according to his subjective, objective examination and the general condition of the patient. He will provide important advice for the concussion healing process. Finally, he will be able to accompany the patient in the stages of recovery towards the resumption of sports activities or normal life to ensure a safe return to play or to his usual and gradual life without worsening symptoms.