What to Expect After a Concussion from a Motor Vehicle Accident
Motor vehicle accidents can be overwhelming, and if you’ve suffered a concussion, the recovery process may feel uncertain. Our concussion physiotherapy in Edmonton offers specialized care designed to support your recovery, with a focus on tailored treatment plans to address your unique needs. Our physiotherapists are dedicated to guiding you through each stage of the healing process. Concussions can be deceptive, as symptoms may appear immediately or be delayed, making professional assessment and treatment crucial.
What Is a Concussion?
It is a type of (TBI) traumatic brain injury resulting from a sudden impact or forceful jolt to the head. In the case of a motor vehicle accident, even a sudden stop or whiplash can lead to a concussion. The brain shifts quickly within the skull, which can cause it to hit the inner walls of the skull, leading to potential damage to brain cells.
Concussions may also temporarily alter brain function, affecting your memory, balance, and coordination. While the symptoms can feel overwhelming at first, the good news is that most concussions are mild, and with the right care and monitoring, full recovery is possible.
Common Concussion Symptoms
After a car accident, concussion symptoms might appear right away, or they could be delayed. It’s crucial to be aware of both the immediate and delayed concussion symptoms so you know what to look for as you heal.
Immediate Signs of a Concussion:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Confusion or feeling “foggy”
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Temporary memory loss (especially regarding the accident)
These are often the first signs of a concussion, and it’s important to seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms after your accident. However, some symptoms might not show up until days or even weeks later. These delayed symptoms can be sneaky and just as concerning.
Delayed Concussion Symptoms:
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Irritability or changes in personality
- Sleep disturbances—either trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much
- Persistent headaches or migraines
- Vision issues, like blurred or double vision
- Fatigue or feeling more tired than usual
Our team of experienced physiotherapists has seen a wide range of concussion cases, and we understand that everyone’s recovery is different. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others deal with more severe, long-lasting effects. That’s why it’s crucial to monitor how you feel in the days and weeks following the accident.
How Are Concussions Evaluated?
If you suspect you have a concussion, It’s crucial to seek an assessment from a medical professional. In many cases, your family doctor might refer you to a concussion clinic for further assessment and treatment. The process typically involves reviewing your symptoms, medical history and performing a neurological exam to check your vision, hearing, balance, and coordination.
At our clinic, we conduct thorough evaluations and craft a treatment plan based on your symptoms and recovery needs. Our goal is to provide comprehensive concussion therapy to help you recover safely and steadily.
Concussion Treatment Options
Now that we’ve covered the symptoms, let’s talk about concussion treatment. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are several approaches that we use to help manage and treat concussions.
Rest and Recovery
Rest is the cornerstone of concussion recovery. In the days immediately following your accident, it’s important to minimize both physical and mental exertion. This includes limiting screen time, avoiding strenuous activity, and allowing your brain to rest.
Vestibular Therapy
If you experience dizziness or balance problems, we may recommend vestibular therapy. This form of therapy helps retrain your brain to manage balance and reduce dizziness, which is common after concussions.
Vision Therapy
If your concussion affects your vision—causing blurry vision or difficulty focusing—our clinic offers specialized exercises to improve eye coordination and reduce visual disturbances.
Manual Therapy and Soft Tissue Work
Some people develop neck or upper body pain after a concussion, especially if their injury is tied to whiplash. We offer manual therapy to relieve muscle tension and discomfort, which can sometimes exacerbate concussion symptoms.
Gradual Return to Activity
While rest is essential, it’s equally important not to remain inactive for too long. Our Family physiotherapists will guide you through a gradual return-to-activity plan that includes light physical activity, mental exercises, and techniques to restore balance and coordination.
How Long Does Concussion Recovery Take?
Recovery times for concussions vary. Some people feel better in a few days, while others may take weeks or even months. On average, most people recover within 7 to 14 days. However, if you experience ongoing symptoms beyond this timeframe, additional treatment may be necessary.
Our goal is to support your recovery through every stage. Concussion therapy in Edmonton offers continuous monitoring and personalized care. Our experienced team will regularly assess your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as required to ensure optimal recovery.
When to Seek Help from a Concussion Clinic
So, when should you seek professional help? Ideally, you should come in for an evaluation as soon as you suspect a concussion. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen over time, it’s definitely time to consult a concussion clinic.
Persistent or severe symptoms could indicate post-concussion syndrome, a condition that can last for months if untreated. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team; our physiotherapists are ready to assist with personalized care tailored to your needs.
Moving Forward After a Concussion with Family Physiotherapy:
Dealing with a concussion from a motor vehicle accident can be a daunting challenge, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our concussion therapy in Edmonton offers comprehensive concussion treatment, helping you navigate the complexities of recovery. If you or a loved one are experiencing signs of a concussion, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support you every step of the way towards a full recovery.
Schedule your consultation now with our Family Physiotherapy and take the first step towards regaining your health and well-being.
