5 Warning Signs a Concussion Is More Serious Than You Think
5 Warning Signs
5 Warning Signs a Concussion Is More Serious Than You Think
Dealing with a concussion can be an overwhelming and frustrating experience, but you’re not alone. Our concussion physiotherapy in Sherwood Park helps individuals navigate the recovery process with personalized care. We focus on reducing symptoms, improving balance, and restoring cognitive function through tailored treatment plans. Whether it’s your first concussion or you’re dealing with lingering effects, our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a safe and smooth recovery.
5 Signs That Your Concussion Might Be More Serious Than It Seems
Our concussion physiotherapy in Sherwood Park has seen the impact of untreated concussions firsthand, and we’re here to guide you on what warning signs of concussion suggest you see a physiotherapist. Let’s look into the five critical signs that your concussion might be more serious than you think.
1. Persistent Headaches or Migraine-Like Symptoms
It’s pretty common to have a headache after a concussion, but if these headaches just won’t quit or are getting worse, that’s a big warning sign. Our physiotherapists stress that this could indicate increased intracranial pressure or other complications that need to be addressed. If regular pain relievers aren’t doing the trick and your headache patterns are changing or intensifying, it’s time to get a medical evaluation. Don’t just brush this off, as it could mean something more significant is going on.
2. Changes in Physical Coordination or Speech
If you’re suddenly having trouble with balance, coordination, or speech, it might be a sign that the concussion has affected parts of your brain that control motor functions and communication. You might notice stumbling, tremors, or difficulty forming words. Our team advises that these symptoms aren’t just mild side effects to ignore. They’re serious indicators that something could be wrong, and they require immediate attention to prevent any further damage.
3. Seizures or Convulsive Episodes
One of the more frightening signs of a serious concussion is the onset of seizures. Any convulsive activity following a head injury suggests a severe neurological issue that needs urgent care. Our physiotherapists are trained to handle emergencies like this and will guide you in getting the specialized treatment you need. Even if it’s just a single episode, it’s crucial to head straight to the emergency room. Seizures are not something to take lightly in the context of a concussion.
4. Prolonged Memory Loss or Confusion
Right after a concussion, some confusion or memory lapses are to be expected. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s particularly concerning. If you or someone you know has trouble remembering recent events, keeps asking the same questions over and over or seems disoriented about time and place, it’s vital to seek help. Our clinic can assist in managing these cognitive symptoms through targeted physiotherapy interventions, but a comprehensive medical examination is also necessary to get to the root of the problem.
5. Sudden Changes in Mood or Behavior
Concussions don’t just mess with your physical state; they can also impact your emotions. Changes in mood or behaviour after a concussion might start subtly, but they can escalate into serious emotional disturbances if left unaddressed. Look out for signs like irritability, sudden sadness, anxiety, or uncharacteristic aggression. At our clinic, we understand how brain injuries can affect emotional regulation. Our physiotherapists are here to support you through both the emotional and physical recovery process.
How Concussion Physiotherapy Can Help with These Warning Signs:
1. Manual Therapy Techniques
Manual therapy is a great way to tackle the tension, stiffness, and pain that often follow a concussion. Our physiotherapists use a range of hands-on techniques to help you feel better. Soft tissue mobilization gently stretches and manipulates muscles, especially in the neck and shoulders, to ease tightness and discomfort—perfect for those pesky tension headaches. Massage therapy boosts blood flow and relaxes tense muscles, providing relief from chronic headaches and neck stiffness. Then there’s trigger point therapy, where we apply pressure to specific muscle points to release tension around the neck and upper back, often bringing significant relief.
2. Vestibular Physiotherapy Techniques
Vestibular physiotherapy is key for tackling balance and dizziness after a concussion. We use targeted techniques to help you regain stability. Gaze stabilization exercises, like VOR exercises, improve your ability to keep your eyes on an object while your head is moving, which is great for dealing with dizziness and visual issues. Balance retraining exercises, such as single-leg stance or tandem walking, are perfect for restoring balance and ensuring you feel steadier on your feet.
3. Cognitive Exercises
Cognitive rehabilitation plays a vital role in improving mental clarity and memory post-concussion. We use the following exercises to sharpen your brain function:
- Memory Games: Tasks like Word Recall and Sequence Remembering improve short-term and long-term memory. These exercises are ideal for patients dealing with forgetfulness or difficulty recalling events.
- Focus and Attention Tasks: Exercises like Concentration Drills or Visual Scanning are designed to enhance focus and reduce mental fatigue, helping patients who struggle with distraction or staying focused.
- Problem-Solving Tasks: We use exercises like Puzzles and Strategic Planning activities to improve cognitive processing, which is beneficial for patients experiencing confusion or slow decision-making after a concussion.
4. Modalities
We use various modalities to manage pain, cut down inflammation, and boost healing. These techniques complement other therapies to provide well-rounded relief. Electrical stimulation (TENS) sends gentle electrical impulses to help with pain and muscle recovery, especially for chronic neck pain or tightness after a concussion. Shockwave therapy uses sound waves to promote tissue healing and reduce pain, improving blood flow and stimulating nerve repair, which can be a lifesaver for chronic headaches and neck pain.
Staying Safe After a Concussion:
Recovering from a concussion requires more than just time. It involves careful monitoring of symptoms, professional guidance, and, sometimes, medical intervention. Our concussion physiotherapy in Sherwood Park helps you navigate the complexities of concussion management. If you spot any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to our physiotherapists at Emerald Hills Physiotherapy. Remember, treating concussion dangers with the seriousness they deserve can make all the difference in your recovery journey.
For personalized care and assessments, please contact our concussion physiotherapist directly. Together, we’ll ensure you’re on the safest path to recovery.
