Concussions are a common type of mild traumatic brain injury that can occur during sports, workplace accidents, car collisions, or falls. While many individuals recover naturally with rest, some experience persistent symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, balance problems, or difficulty concentrating. In these cases, working with a concussion physiotherapist in Edmonton can help manage symptoms, support recovery, and guide a safe return to daily activities.
Next Step Physiotherapy offers structured concussion rehabilitation programs designed to assess, monitor, and treat individuals with post-concussion symptoms. This article explains what a concussion physiotherapist does, the types of treatment offered, and what patients can expect from a rehabilitation program at Next Step Physiotherapy.
What Is a Concussion Physiotherapist?
A concussion physiotherapist is a licensed physiotherapist trained to evaluate and treat symptoms resulting from a concussion. Their role is to assess how the injury affects balance, coordination, movement, and overall physical function. Physiotherapists working with concussion patients use evidence-informed approaches that often include:
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Vestibular rehabilitation for dizziness or balance issues
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Gradual return-to-activity programs for work or sports
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Targeted exercises to improve coordination, posture, and strength
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Education on symptom management and lifestyle strategies
Unlike general physiotherapy, concussion rehabilitation focuses on the interactions between the brain, nervous system, and musculoskeletal system to support recovery and minimize long-term complications.
Common Symptoms Treated by Concussion Physiotherapy
Concussion symptoms can vary widely and may include:
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Dizziness, vertigo, or balance difficulties
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Headaches or sensitivity to light and sound
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Neck or shoulder tension
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Fatigue and reduced concentration
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Nausea or visual disturbances
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Difficulty performing daily or work-related activities
A concussion physiotherapist Edmonton evaluates the severity of symptoms and develops a rehabilitation plan tailored to the individual’s needs.
When to See a Concussion Physiotherapist
Not all concussions require physiotherapy, but it is recommended to seek assessment if symptoms persist beyond a few days or interfere with normal activities. Signs that indicate a physiotherapy assessment may be beneficial include:
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Persistent dizziness or balance problems
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Frequent headaches or neck pain
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Difficulty returning to sports or physical activity
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Fatigue or trouble concentrating during daily tasks
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Delayed symptom improvement beyond initial rest
Early assessment can help identify underlying issues and reduce the risk of prolonged symptoms or secondary injuries.
What to Expect at a Concussion Physiotherapy Assessment
A visit to a concussion physiotherapist typically begins with a detailed assessment of the patient’s history and symptoms. Key elements of an assessment may include:
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Medical and Injury History
The physiotherapist reviews the cause of the concussion, previous injuries, and relevant medical conditions. -
Physical and Functional Assessment
Tests may evaluate balance, gait, neck mobility, eye movement, coordination, and posture. -
Symptom Monitoring
Baseline measurements help track progress and guide treatment intensity. -
Treatment Planning
Based on the assessment, the physiotherapist creates a personalized rehabilitation plan that may include exercises, manual therapy, education, and gradual return-to-activity protocols.
Typical Concussion Rehabilitation Approaches
Treatment varies depending on the individual’s symptoms, but common physiotherapy approaches include:
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Vestibular Rehabilitation: Exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness
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Neck and Shoulder Therapy: Manual therapy or strengthening exercises to address tension or musculoskeletal contributions to symptoms
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Cardiovascular Conditioning: Gradual, monitored exercise to support recovery without exacerbating symptoms
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Vision and Eye Movement Exercises: For patients with visual disturbances or difficulty tracking objects
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Education and Lifestyle Strategies: Guidance on rest, activity pacing, sleep, and stress management
These strategies work together to support functional recovery and allow safe participation in work, school, or sports.
The Role of Next Step Physiotherapy in Concussion Recovery
Next Step Physiotherapy provides structured concussion rehabilitation programs in Edmonton that focus on individualized care. The clinic emphasizes careful assessment, symptom monitoring, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Services include:
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Comprehensive concussion assessments
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Personalized rehabilitation programs
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Integration of vestibular, musculoskeletal, and functional therapy
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Guidance for safe return to sports, work, or daily activity
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Ongoing monitoring to track recovery and adjust treatment
This approach ensures that each patient receives care tailored to their specific symptoms and recovery goals.
Return-to-Activity Programs
A major component of concussion rehabilitation is a structured return-to-activity plan. This gradual approach allows individuals to resume work, school, or sports safely without worsening symptoms. Key elements include:
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Stepwise progression: Activity is increased gradually while monitoring symptoms
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Objective criteria: Each stage requires symptom stability before progressing
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Individualized pacing: Adjustments are made based on personal tolerance and recovery
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Coordination with other healthcare providers: Communication with physicians, occupational therapists, or coaches when necessary
Following a structured plan helps reduce the risk of re-injury and supports long-term recovery.
Benefits of Seeing a Concussion Physiotherapist in Edmonton
Working with a concussion physiotherapist offers several advantages:
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Early identification and management of persistent symptoms
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Personalized exercises and treatment plans
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Structured guidance for returning to daily activities or sports
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Monitoring and tracking of recovery progress
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Support for both physical and functional aspects of concussion recovery
Clinics such as Next Step Physiotherapy combine clinical expertise with practical strategies to guide patients safely through the recovery process.
Insurance and Coverage
Many concussion physiotherapy services are covered under extended health benefits, workers’ compensation claims, or motor vehicle accident insurance in Alberta. Next Step Physiotherapy provides guidance on coverage and direct billing options, making it easier for patients to access care without upfront financial concerns.
Self-Care Between Physiotherapy Sessions
Recovery from a concussion is supported by home strategies, which may include:
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Following prescribed exercises consistently
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Gradual increase in activity while monitoring symptoms
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Avoiding activities that trigger worsening symptoms
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Maintaining hydration and a regular sleep schedule
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Using pacing strategies to manage cognitive or physical tasks
These practices complement clinic-based rehabilitation and can help reduce recovery time.
Choosing the Right Concussion Physiotherapist in Edmonton
When selecting a clinic, consider the following:
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Licensed physiotherapists with concussion or vestibular training
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Evidence-informed assessment and treatment approaches
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Individualized treatment plans tailored to specific symptoms
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Flexible scheduling to accommodate work, school, or sports commitments
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Supportive environment for monitoring and tracking recovery
Next Step Physiotherapy offers comprehensive concussion rehabilitation in Edmonton, combining clinical expertise with patient-focused care to support safe, functional recovery.
Final Thoughts
Concussion recovery can be complex and varies from person to person. Early assessment and structured rehabilitation by a concussion physiotherapist in Edmonton can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of prolonged symptoms.
Next Step Physiotherapy provides individualized treatment programs, careful symptom monitoring, and stepwise return-to-activity plans. By addressing both physical and functional aspects of concussion recovery, patients can gradually regain stability, confidence, and normal activity levels.
For individuals in Edmonton experiencing post-concussion symptoms, consulting a specialized physiotherapist ensures that recovery is guided, monitored, and supported by professional care.