Neurological Physiotherapy
Concussion
Concussion Management in Adelaide
Concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury that can affect the neck, the vestibular (inner ear) system, the autonomic nervous system and psychological function — often all at once. It can be a difficult injury to diagnose, because there’s usually nothing to see on a scan, even though the symptoms are very real.
At Advanced Neuro Rehab, concussion management has been part of our practice since 2006. Our neurological physiotherapists are trained in vestibular rehabilitation and in the assessment and treatment of concussion across every stage of recovery — from the first few days through to persistent symptoms months later.
Who we help
We manage concussion for a wide range of people, including:
- Sports Concussion: athletes and weekend sportspeople, from junior level through to elite
- Work-Related Concussion: people who’ve had a head knock on the job
- Everyday knocks and falls, at home or in a car accident
Wherever your concussion happened, the assessment and treatment approach is similar, guided by current best-practice concussion guidelines.
Our approach to concussion management
Early intervention. In the first one to two weeks, we provide education and guidance on rest, gradual return to activity, and what to expect. Recent guidelines recommend that everyone with a suspected concussion be assessed by a physiotherapist experienced in concussion within this window.
Comprehensive assessment. If symptoms haven’t started settling within one to two weeks, we conduct a multidimensional assessment covering the neck, balance and coordination, the vestibular system, eye movements, exercise tolerance and specific screening questions. This tells us exactly which systems are driving your symptoms, so treatment is targeted rather than generic.
Hands-on and exercise-based treatment. Depending on what the assessment finds, this might include neck treatment and exercises, vestibular rehabilitation, balance retraining, and graded exercise programs.
Planning your return. We help build a graded plan to get you back to what matters — Return to Work after Concussion or Return to Sport after Concussion — and we liaise directly with your GP, employer, school or coach so everyone is working from the same plan.
If symptoms persist. Most people recover within four weeks. If yours don’t, this is known as Post Concussion Syndrome, and it needs a more comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach — see our page on Persistent Concussion Symptoms for more detail.
Why choose Advanced Neuro Rehab
We’re a family-owned Adelaide practice with clinics in Royston Park, Goodwood and Christies Beach. Our team includes physiotherapists with postgraduate training in neurological and vestibular rehabilitation, and we work closely with the South Australian Cricket Association, the Adelaide Crows, Port Adelaide and SANFL clubs to manage concussion in elite athletes — the same evidence-based care is available to every patient who walks through our door.
We also offer baseline concussion testing (including NeuroFlex® screening) for schools, clubs and workplaces, so that if a concussion does happen, we already have your individual baseline to compare against.
Get help with concussion recovery
If you or a family member is dealing with concussion symptoms, don’t wait for them to resolve on their own. Book an assessment with one of our neurological physiotherapists.
We have the experience to help you, so if you have ongoing symptoms please book in for an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does concussion recovery usually take?
Most people recover within two to four weeks with appropriate management, though this varies from person to person. If symptoms haven’t started improving within this window, a more detailed assessment is worthwhile.
When should I see a physiotherapist after a concussion?
Ideally within the first one to two weeks, or sooner if you’d like guidance on rest, activity levels and what to expect. Early assessment helps identify anything that might slow your recovery.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No referral is needed for a private physiotherapy appointment. A referral may be required if you’re claiming through Medicare, DVA or workers compensation — we can help clarify what applies to you.
Can concussion be managed through telehealth?
Some elements, such as education, monitoring and return-to-work or return-to-sport planning, can be done via telehealth. Initial assessment is usually best done in person so we can complete hands-on and physical testing.
