What is a concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury. It involves a hit, bump, or jolt to the head or body, which causes damage to the neurological tissues in the brain. Often times concussions are complex in nature and involve/effect the cervical spine, vestibular system, and visual system.

Common Concussion Symptoms:

Some of the symptoms that could present with a concussion include Physical Symptoms (headache, dizziness, light/sound sensitivities, nausea), Cognitive Symptoms (memory loss, attention deficits, concentration deficits), Sleep Disturbances , and Behavioural/Emotional Symptoms (irritability, anxiety, depression).

How can we help?

At Tonic we offer various forms of testing for potential concussion injuries. We offer Baseline testing through an online application called ImPACT. This application evaluates different aspects of cognitive function, and is a great tool to help treat a concussion should one occur. ImPACT is used widely prior to commencing any sport which involves potential harm from contact. If your sports team requires baseline testing, we can help you out!

 

We also use objective measures to assess the vestibular, visual, and cervical systems in our concussion baseline and post-injury assessments. Sarah is a Level 2 Provider with Shift Concussion Management and has gone through additional training to help the needs of these patients in managing their injury,

Treatment is highly individualized based on the symptoms that are presented. As we said, concussions are often complex in nature! It may include physical rehabilitation (manual therapy to the neck), cognitive rest strategies, progressive exercises that target the specific systems involved, acupuncture, and/or general information on the process of recovery. We always like to work on a team with those medical professionals involved. We will actively communicate amongst ourselves to make sure you receive the best course of treatment and make sure you get back to being you as soon as possible!.

What to do if you suspect you have a concussion?

First make sure that someone else is aware of your injury. Next, seek medical attention by making an appointment with your family Physician and get assessed. You do not often need an MRI or CT scan. Follow this with scheduling an assessment with us! In the early stages of a concussion, cognitive rest is encouraged. This does not mean to put yourself in the dark! Activities that do not aggravate or exacerbate symptoms are probably okay to do. These may include going for a walk, doing some gentle yoga, listening to music or podcast, meditation, or doing some gentle chores around the house. Follow the management strategies that have been laid out for you as best you can. It is always a good idea to follow up to make sure your recovery is progressing as it should.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 905-878-7775 and ask for Sarah!