At Physiotherapy Performance Institute, we provide assessment and rehabilitation following concussion, with a focus on safe recovery and return to work, sport, and daily function.

Concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury. It typically results from a direct or indirect blow to the head, causing rapid movement of the brain within the skull. While symptoms are often short-lived, recovery can vary between individuals.

What happens with a concussion?

In simple terms, the injury creates small shearing forces within the brain. This disrupts normal nerve function and triggers a temporary chemical imbalance.

The brain enters a state where it requires more energy to function, while simultaneously having a reduced ability to produce that energy efficiently.

This mismatch can affect multiple systems, including:

• Balance (inner ear / vestibular system)

• Vision and eye tracking

• Neck function (cervical spine)

• Cognitive processing (thinking, concentration, memory)

• Autonomic function (exercise tolerance, heart rate, fatigue)

• Psychological wellbeing

Because of this, symptoms can vary significantly between individuals.

Common symptoms

• Headache or pressure in the head

• Dizziness or balance issues

• Blurred or disrupted vision

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Neck pain or stiffness

• Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance

• Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”

Most people improve within 1–2 weeks, however some symptoms can persist longer.

If symptoms continue beyond 3–4 weeks, this is often referred to as post-concussion syndrome.

The role of physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a key role in identifying and treating the systems contributing to ongoing symptoms.

Physiotherapy Management should always coincide with medical management and review. It is tailored to the individual and may include:

• Balance and ‘vestibular’ rehabilitation

• Visual tracking and coordination exercises

• Cervical spine (neck) assessment and treatment

• Graded return-to-exercise programs

• Return to sport planning and progression

• Education around symptom management and pacing

A key part of recovery is finding the right balance between activity and rest.

Pushing too far into symptoms can lead to flare-ups and delayed recovery.
Too much rest can also slow progress.

Guided rehabilitation helps ensure steady and appropriate progression.

Why seek physiotherapy?

Concussion recovery is not always linear, and symptoms often overlap between systems.

A structured assessment allows us to:

• Identify which systems are contributing to symptoms

• Target treatment more effectively

• Progress exercise safely

• Reduce the risk of prolonged recovery

Book an appointment

If you’ve recently sustained a concussion, or are experiencing ongoing symptoms, early assessment can help guide your recovery.

Appointments available in Bathurst and Orange.