Complete concussion management

What is complete concussion management?

Complete concussion management is a network of clinics around the world that are recognised for offering evidence-based concussion care to those impacted by, or at risk of concussion. As a clinic in this network, we engage in initial pre-season multimodal baseline testing through to concussion treatment and rehabilitation, working in collaboration with primary care physicians to help patients and athletes safely return to work and play. The network also allows for a consistent and research-based approach to the management of concussion across a world-wide network so patients are able to find a local provider if they experience a concussion whilst traveling or away from their local therapist.

The role of physiotherapy in concussion treatment and management

Physiotherapists can be an integral part of the concussion recovery process. Assessment includes a battery of tests to address the potential causes of symptoms (both acute and chronic), which may be present following concussion. These include assessment and treatment of the:

• Visual system
• Vestibular system
• Cervical spine (neck) joints and musculature
• Cardiovascular system

Education and advice regarding:

• Return to activity and return to sport
• Diet
• Supplements
• The nature and mechanism of concussion
• Up to date research

All of the above are very important components of the concussion treatment which is provided.

When should I see a physiotherapist about concussion treatment and management?

Within 24-48hrs following injury. Often it can take up to a week to get in to see your GP following injury, and research supports seeing your concussion trained health professional as soon as possible, to help both minimise and reduce your symptom severity. Your health professional will also be able to direct you if you need more urgent follow up in the hospital for scans or direct you to specialists if it is deemed appropriate.

What is multimodal baseline testing?

Multimodal baseline testing is a series of physical and cognitive tests that provides a pre-injury overview of healthy brain function. These tests can offer healthcare practitioners with an objective benchmark on which to compare should a patient sustain a concussion. As concussion symptoms often disappear days to weeks before the brain has recovered, having valuable baseline information may help practitioners to make safer return to play decisions.

Is a referral required?

No referral is required to see a physio for orthopaedic and sports injury rehabilitation.

Can I claim this service as an extra on my health insurance policy?

Sessions may be claimed on private health insurance depending on your level of cover (as per normal physiotherapy sessions), please check with your private health insurance provider.

What is Concussion Baseline Testing?

Baseline Concussion testing is a crucial pre-injury assessment tool for athletes, evaluating their cognitive abilities and other neurological functions. This assessment, conducted before any potential head trauma, establishes a benchmark for comparison in the event of a concussion. It assists medical professionals such as athletic trainers, physiotherapists, and chiropractors in accurately diagnosing concussions and helping with concussion management.

By tracking changes from the baseline, healthcare providers can make informed decisions regarding an athlete’s safe return to play, ensuring their overall well-being and reducing the risk of long-term consequences associated with repeated head injuries.

Why Athletes Should Have Baseline Concussion Testing.

Individualized Baseline Information:

Provides a personalized baseline for each athlete before any head injury occurs.

Aids in Concussion Diagnosis:

Offers a point of comparison to assess a concussion by comparing post-injury concussion test results with the baseline, helping in a more accurate diagnosis.

Objective Evaluation:

Offers objective data for medical professionals to measure the extent of impairment caused by a concussion, allowing for better treatment.

Safer Return to Play Decisions:

Guides the gradual return-to-play process by tracking recovery progress against the baseline, reducing the risk of premature return to activity.

Concussion Education and Awareness Tool:

Raises awareness about the seriousness of concussions and encourages proactive measures among athletes, coaches, parents, and sports organizations.

These benefits collectively contribute to a more comprehensive concussion care and management approach.

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

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TREATMENT & REHAB VIDEO

BASELINE TESTING VIDEO

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Complete Concussion Management System Video

Physician Video