Concussion Recovery in Coquitlam and Burnaby: How Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Can Help
A hit on the ice. A fall on the trail. A collision on the soccer field. A concussion can happen in seconds, but getting back to your normal routine can take longer. If you’re dealing with headaches, dizziness, brain fog or other symptoms after a head injury, you may be wondering: When will I feel like myself again? At Strive Health and Performance, our concussion management program brings chiropractic care, physiotherapy and active rehabilitation together to support your recovery. Here’s what you can expect at our clinics across the Tri-Cities.
What Happens After a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body. Symptoms can appear right away or develop later, and they can look different from person to person.
Common symptoms include:
- Headaches or neck pain
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Trouble concentrating or remembering
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Fatigue or changes in sleep
- Irritability or changes in mood
A concussion can affect more than just how you feel mentally. Your neck, balance, vision and ability to tolerate physical activity can also be affected. That’s why concussion recovery often benefits from a personalized, team-based approach.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help With Concussion Recovery?
Strive Chiropractors take a comprehensive approach to concussion recovery, starting with a thorough assessment to understand your symptoms and guide your treatment plan. We provide education to help you manage symptoms and safely return to activity, along with vestibular and visual rehab to address dizziness, balance issues, and visual disturbances. They will also treat the muscles and joints of the neck, which are often involved in concussion-related symptoms
Returning to Sport After a Concussion
Knowing when it’s safe to return to sport can be one of the hardest parts of concussion recovery.
A concussion baseline test gives you a snapshot of how you perform when you’re healthy. Depending on the assessment, this may include things such as:
- Memory and concentration
- Reaction time
- Balance
- Other measures of brain and physical performance
If you experience a concussion later, baseline results may provide additional information to help guide your recovery.
Return To Sport Is Gradual
Getting back to your sport doesn’t mean going from no activity straight back to a game.
Your return may progress through stages such as:
- Light physical activity
- Sport-specific exercises
- Non-contact practice
- Full-contact practice
- Return to game play
You only move forward when your symptoms allow.
Our team can also help support a gradual return to school, work and everyday activities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concussion Care
Can a chiropractor help with post-concussion symptoms?
Chiropractic care may help address neck-related symptoms such as pain, stiffness and headaches that can occur alongside a concussion.
At Strive, chiropractic care is one part of a broader recovery plan that may also include physiotherapy and active rehabilitation.
When should I get concussion baseline testing?
Ideally, baseline testing is completed before your sports season starts, while you’re healthy and symptom-free. For young athletes, updating baseline testing periodically can also be helpful as they grow and develop.
Learn more about baseline testing and concussion care.
How long does it take to return to sport after a concussion?
There isn’t one timeline that works for everyone. Some people recover within a few weeks, while others need more time. Your recovery will depend on your symptoms, how they change over time and how you respond to gradually increasing activity. A personalized plan can help you return to your activities safely and confidently.
How do I find the right chiropractor for concussion care?
Look for a chiropractor trained in Complete Concussion Management (CCMI) who offers a full assessment (neck, vision, balance and cognitive testing) and works alongside physiotherapists. At Strive Health and Performance, our CCMI-trained team does exactly that at our Coquitlam and Brentwood clinics, and no referral is needed.
Should I see a doctor after a concussion?
If you suspect you’ve had a concussion, a medical assessment is recommended. Our team can also work alongside your physician as part of your recovery.
Seek emergency medical care right away if symptoms become severe or worsen, including a severe headache, repeated vomiting, confusion or weakness.
Get Back to What You Love
A concussion can temporarily put your usual routine on hold, but our team at Strive Health and Performance is here to help. Book an appointment with our team today.