Concussion Clinic

What is a Concussion?

A Concussion occurs when a force that is transmitted to the head results in temporary impairment of brain function. It usually occurs due to a direct blow to the head but force can be transmitted to the head from a blow elsewhere on the body.

Obviously, the brain performs many functions so the impairments can be wide and varied and include headache, confusion, irritability, difficulty concentrating or a wide array of other symptoms. It can be difficult to distinguish concussion from an actual traumatic brain injury.

Why is a Concussion Management Important?

There is an increasing body of evidence of the potential future consequences of concussion. It is also important for a medical professional to rule out a traumatic brain injury.

A CCMI accredited Sport and Exercise Physician and Physiotherapy team can use an individualised, multi-modal approach to treat the specific problems associated with a concussion. We use the best available evidence to guide Concussion Management.

A poorly managed concussion can result in longer-lasting symptoms including headaches and fatigue that can, in some cases, persist for months or years (post-concussion syndrome).

What is the Best Management of Concussion?

All cases of concussion should be assessed by a medical professional. Sport and Exercise Physicians are experts in determining the need for further investigations and the safe rate of return to physical activity, work and school.

The management of concussion is enhanced if we have a baseline reading of your neurological function on file which is why we encourage all participants in high impact collision sports to have baseline screening with us at the start of the season.