Understanding Concussions: Trusted Care from a Concussion Clinic in Edmonton

A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a sudden impact to the head, neck, face, or body, causing the brain to move inside the skull. This internal motion can result in temporary dysfunction of brain activity, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep-related symptoms. At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic, our concussion clinic in Edmonton provides dedicated care for individuals recovering from head injuries, especially children, teens, and athletes, using evidence-based strategies and personalized treatment plans.

While some symptoms appear immediately, others can take hours or even days to develop. Most individuals recover within 10 days to 4 weeks; however, recovery time may be longer for older adults, individuals with a history of concussions, or those with other health conditions. Younger people generally tend to recover faster. Our concussion clinic in Edmonton emphasizes early intervention and close monitoring to reduce the risk of prolonged symptoms and to support a safe return to daily activities, school, or sport.

Common Symptoms of a Concussion

Concussion symptoms cannot be detected through standard imaging tools like MRI, X-ray, or CT scans. Diagnosis depends on observing changes in how a person thinks, feels, and functions. Symptoms generally fall into four categories:

• Physical Symptoms

  
  

  • Headache

  • Dizziness

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Balance problems

  • Blurry vision

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

• Cognitive Symptoms

  
  

  • Confusion

  • Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly

  • Memory problems

  • Fatigue or low energy

• Emotional Symptoms

  
  

  • Irritability

  • Anxiety or nervousness

  • Sadness

  • Mood changes

• Sleep-Related Symptoms

  
  

  • Trouble falling or staying asleep

  • Sleeping more or less than usual

Each person experiences a concussion differently, which is why individualized care is essential. At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic, we take a comprehensive approach, assessing all symptoms to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Notice the Following:

Some signs indicate a more serious brain injury and require urgent care. Call 911 or seek emergency medical attention if the person experiences:

• Neck pain

• Double vision

• Loss of consciousness

• Seizures or convulsions

• Repeated vomiting

• Severe or worsening headaches

• Weakness, tingling, or burning in the arms or legs

These symptoms suggest potential complications and should not be ignored.

What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion

If you or your child has suffered a blow to the head or body and shows any symptoms of concussion, stop activity immediately and seek professional assessment. For children and teens, it’s crucial to:

• Stop them from continuing physical activity or sports

• Stay with them and monitor for emerging symptoms

• Consult a doctor or a qualified concussion clinic right away

Do not attempt to move the person or remove helmets or protective gear if there’s a chance of spinal injury. Safety and stabilization come first.

How Concussions Are Treated at Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic 

Recovery starts with an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic, we work closely with medical doctors and specialists to ensure a coordinated approach to care. Your treatment may involve:

• Regular symptom monitoring by a physician

• Referral to other healthcare providers, including:

  
  

  • Neurologists for neurological assessment

  • Physiotherapists for balance, vestibular, and cervical spine rehabilitation

  • Occupational therapists for cognitive support and gradual return to work or school

Most individuals recover in one to four weeks, but we closely monitor each case and adjust plans based on response to treatment and any pre-existing conditions.

Understanding Gender Differences in Concussion Recovery

Recent research shows that males and females may experience different symptoms and recovery timelines after a concussion. Hormonal differences, biomechanics, and reporting habits can influence both the nature and duration of symptoms. At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic, we incorporate this knowledge into our care plans to provide more accurate assessments and support based on the unique needs of each patient.

Contact us today if you’ve suffered a head injury

If you’ve suffered head trauma, don’t wait, contact Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic online today or call (587) 635-5258.