Concussion Treatment at Cervus
We offer comprehensive assessment using state-of-the-art technology in addition to comprehensive clinical testing to assess and manage patients experiencing symptoms of concussion.
Don’t take chances with your brain health. If you have experienced a head injury and want to know what to do next then talk to us today.
Our concussion assessment process
Naturally, the assessment we put our concussion patients through will differ depending on the recency of the injury, medical history, symptoms and unique circumstances, but they all share some common examinations. These include:
Thorough injury and medical history, including use of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures
Memory testing
Clinical balance and coordination testing
Computerised balance testing using the BTrackS Force Plate
Objective oculomotor testing using Optics Tracker
Vestibular-oculomotor (VOMS) test
Cervical spine and cranial nerve exam
Objective eye tracking technology
Eye movements are controlled by complex neural circuits involving multiple regions of the brain and brainstem which are often impacted by a concussion. Computerised eye tracking using the Optics Tracker technology allows us to monitor their performance and provide a detailed understanding of which of these regions are compromised. Repeated testing on subsequent visits lets us monitor improvement in neurological function and adjust the management plan as needed.
Computerised balance testing
Dizziness, unsteadiness and postural dysequilibirum are among the most commonly reported symptoms following a concussion. All patients suspected of having sustained a concussion undergo objective balance testing using the BTrackS balance force platform. This provides a reliable measure of the brain’s awareness of where the body is in space, and can be used to help determine the extent of neurological dysfunction as well as indicate when an athlete is ready to return to sport safely.
What is a concussion?
What is a concussion?
“Sport-related concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, neck or body resulting in an impulsive force being transmitted to the brain. This initiates a neurotransmitter and metabolic cascade, with possible axonal injury, blood flow change and inflammation affecting the brain”. (Patricios et al, 2023).
The acute impact results in a change in the balance in the chemical environment through the brain and brainstem, decreased ability to process sensory stimuli, and alterations in the transmission capacity of nerve cells.
Concussion Symptoms
While most concussions are expected to symptomatically resolve within 4 weeks, approximately 20-30% remain symptomatic for more than one month.
Symptoms vary from case to case, depending on factors such as previous head injury, medical conditions and general health status. Generally speaking, symptoms can include:
Headache
Fatigue or low energy
Alterations in memory, concentration and mood
Dizziness, nausea and balance issues
Sensitivity to bright lights, loud noises and/or strong smells.
Get back to sport, safely
We know that after an injury people want to get back to their sports and hobbies as quickly as possible. Our rehab programs are designed to do just that, all the while monitoring your neurological performance to ensure you’re safe to do so.
While no two concussions are ever exactly the same, some general approaches to rehab may involve:
Breathing exercises to increase oxygenation and decrease neurological stress
Vestibular rehabilitation and/or balance exercises
Manual therapy to the neck, jaw and surrounding tissues
Dietary modification and/or vitamin supplementation
Exercises which challenge coordination and cognitive processes (dual-tasking)
Book Online
Book Online
If you’re ready to get back to your best, use the form here to book online.
Want to chat on the phone first? You can reach us on 0448 576 174.
Visit Us
1 Woodland St, Essendon (opposite Strathmore train station)
Hours
Monday 8am - 7pm
Tuesday 8am -7pm
Wednesday 2pm -7pm
Thursday 8am -2pm
Friday 8am - 6pm
Saturday 8am - 11am
Phone
0448 576 174