Concussion Treatment in Calgary
A concussion is a disruption in brain function that can affect balance, cognition, vision, and coordination. At Anew Chiropractic Clinic, we assess how the brain and nervous system are functioning to guide targeted, individualized care for concussion and post-concussion symptoms.
Concussion and Post-Concussion Recovery are possible. Book your Case Review Phone Consultation today!
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that occurs when a force or impact causes the brain to move within the skull. This can disrupt how the brain processes information, even if there is no visible damage on imaging.
Concussions can affect multiple systems, including balance (vestibular system), vision, coordination, and cognitive function. Symptoms may appear immediately or develop over time.
Whiplash injuries—commonly associated with car accidents—can also contribute to similar symptoms due to the close relationship between the neck, brain, and vestibular system.
Common Symptoms of a Concussion
Symptoms vary from person to person and may evolve over time. Common symptoms include:
Headaches or pressure in the head
Dizziness or vertigo
Balance problems
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Memory issues
Sensitivity to light or noise
Nausea
Fatigue
Blurred or double vision
Irritability or mood changes
Sleep disturbances
Common Causes of Concussion
Concussions can result from a variety of physical impacts or forces, including:
Sports-related injuries
Motor vehicle accidents (whiplash)
Falls or slips
Direct blows to the head
Sudden acceleration or deceleration forces
Even without direct head impact, rapid movement of the head and neck can disrupt brain function.
How Long Does Concussion Recovery Take?
Recovery timelines vary depending on the individual and the severity of symptoms.
Some individuals recover within a few weeks
Others may experience symptoms for months
Persistent symptoms are often referred to as post-concussion syndrome
Recovery depends on identifying and addressing the systems involved, such as vestibular, visual, or neurological function.
Concussion-Related Conditions We Commonly See
Post-Concussion Dysautonomia
Heart rate, blood pressure, or fatigue-related symptoms following concussion.
Concussion symptoms often overlap with other conditions. We commonly assess and manage:
Vertigo
Dizziness, imbalance, or motion sensitivity related to the vestibular system.
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months after the initial injury.
Cervicogenic Dizziness
Headaches, dizziness, or discomfort originating from the cervical spine.
How We Assess Concussions
Our approach focuses on identifying which systems are affected rather than treating concussion as a single condition. Assessment may include:
Detailed history of injury and symptoms
Cognitive and neurological screening
Eye movement and visual tracking tests
Balance and coordination assessment
Vestibular system evaluation
Cervical spine (neck) assessment
Autonomic nervous system indicators
This allows us to identify the specific areas of dysfunction and tailor care accordingly.
Concussion Treatment Approach
Treatment is individualized and based on your presentation. Our approach may include:
Vestibular rehabilitation (for dizziness and balance issues)
Eye movement and visual coordination exercises
Gradual return-to-activity strategies
Neurological stimulation exercises
Balance and coordination retraining
Cervical spine therapy (if neck involvement is present)
Our goal is to support the brain’s recovery and improve how the nervous system processes information.
When should you seek care for a concussion?
You should consider an assessment if you experience:
Symptoms lasting more than a few days
Persistent headaches or dizziness
Difficulty concentrating or remembering
Balance issues or instability
Sensitivity to light or noise
Symptoms interfering with work, school, or daily life
Early evaluation can help guide recovery and prevent prolonged symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concussions
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A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury. While classified as “mild,” symptoms can still significantly affect daily function.
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Most concussions do not appear on imaging such as CT scans or MRIs. Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms and clinical assessment.
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Many people recover fully, especially with appropriate management. Recovery timelines vary.
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Many people recover within a few weeks, but recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the injury and individual factors.
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Post-concussion syndrome refers to symptoms that persist beyond the expected recovery period.
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Yes. Neck injuries can contribute to dizziness, headaches, and neurological symptoms due to the connection between the cervical spine and brain function.
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Yes. Concussions often affect the vestibular system, which helps regulate balance and spatial orientation.
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Early rest is often recommended, but gradual return to activity is usually encouraged under professional guidance.
Get Assessed For Concussion
If you are experiencing symptoms after a concussion or whiplash injury, identifying the underlying cause is key to recovery. At Anew Chiropractic Clinic, we assess how different systems of the body are functioning to guide targeted care.
Book a 30-minute Virtual or Phone Case Review consultation, we’ll listen to your symptoms, answer your questions, and help you determine the most appropriate next steps for care.