Why Now is the Perfect Time to Get a Concussion Baseline Test 

Concussions are a growing concern, especially for those involved in sports, physically demanding activities, or even everyday life. While we can’t always prevent concussions, we can take proactive steps to manage their impact. One of the most effective ways to do this is through baseline testing. If you’ve been considering getting a baseline test, now is the perfect time to act.

Baseline testing is a pre-injury assessment that measures your brain’s normal function. It provides a snapshot of your cognitive abilities, balance, and other neurological functions before any injury occurs. This information becomes invaluable if you ever sustain a concussion, as it allows healthcare professionals to compare your post-injury state to your baseline, ensuring a more accurate diagnosis and tailored recovery plan.

But why is now the right time to book your baseline test at Sydney Concussion Centre?

Stay Ahead of the Sports Season
Whether you’re an athlete or a parent of one, the start of a new sports season is the ideal time to get a baseline test. Many sports, especially contact sports, carry a higher risk of concussion. By having a baseline test done before the season begins, you’re equipping yourself or your child with a safety net. If an injury occurs, the baseline data will help guide a safer and more effective return-to-play decision.

Proactive Health Management
Concussions don’t just happen on the field. Everyday activities, such as cycling, hiking, or even a simple fall, can lead to a concussion. Baseline testing isn’t just for athletes—it’s for anyone who values their brain health. By acting now, you’re taking a proactive step to safeguard your well-being and ensure you have the tools needed for a faster, more accurate recovery if an injury occurs.

Convenience and Peace of Mind
The start of the year is often a time for setting goals and prioritising health. Booking a baseline test now means you can check this important task off your list and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re prepared. At Sydney Concussion Centre, our expert team makes the process simple, efficient, and tailored to your needs.

Access to Expert Care
At Sydney Concussion Centre, we focus on concussion management and recovery. By choosing us for your baseline test, you’re not only getting a comprehensive assessment but also gaining access to a team of professionals who are here to support you every step of the way. Should you ever need post-injury care, you’ll already have a trusted partner in your corner.

Take Action Today
Don’t wait for an injury to happen before taking action. A baseline test is a small investment in your health that can make a big difference in your recovery journey. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or simply someone who values their brain health, now is the time to prioritise your well-being.

Book your baseline test today at Sydney Concussion Centre and take the first step toward proactive concussion care.

 Contact our office on 18OO CONCUSSION | 1800 266 287 for further advice

Concussions are a common yet often misunderstood injury, particularly when it comes to children. Whether it’s a fall at the playground, a sports-related incident, or an accidental bump to the head, recognising and managing a concussion in children is crucial for their long-term health and well-being. However, concussions in children can present differently than in adults, making it essential for parents to know what to look for and how to support recovery effectively.

Understanding the unique challenges of childhood concussions can empower parents to take the right steps toward ensuring their child’s safety and recovery.

Recognising Concussions in Children

Unlike adults, children may not always be able to articulate how they feel after a head injury. This makes it even more important for parents to be vigilant about recognising the signs of a concussion. Common symptoms in children include:

• Physical Symptoms: Headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sensitivity to light or noise, and fatigue.
• Cognitive Symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, confusion, or appearing “foggy.”
• Emotional Symptoms: Irritability, sadness, or unusual emotional outbursts.
• Sleep Disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping more or less than usual, or difficulty falling asleep.

In younger children, symptoms may be even more subtle. They might appear unusually tired, lose interest in their favourite activities, or have difficulty with balance and coordination. Babies and toddlers may cry excessively, refuse to eat, or display changes in behaviour that are out of character.

How Symptoms Differ in Children

Children’s brains are still developing, which means their response to a concussion can differ significantly from that of an adult. For instance:

• Delayed Onset of Symptoms: Symptoms in children may not appear immediately after the injury. It could take hours or even days for signs to become noticeable.
• Difficulty Expressing Symptoms: Younger children may struggle to describe their symptoms, such as dizziness or confusion, making it harder to identify the injury.
• Longer Recovery Times: Children often take longer to recover from a concussion compared to adults, as their developing brains are more vulnerable to injury.

Supporting Your Child’s Recovery

If you suspect your child has sustained a concussion, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the injury and provide guidance on the next steps. Once a concussion is diagnosed, here are some key ways to support your child’s recovery:

1. Rest is Key: Ensure your child gets plenty of physical and cognitive rest. This means avoiding strenuous activities, screen time, and tasks that require intense concentration, such as homework, until symptoms improve.
2. Gradual Return to Activities: Once symptoms begin to subside, your child can gradually return to school and light physical activities under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Avoid rushing this process, as returning too soon can worsen symptoms or prolong recovery.
3. Monitor Symptoms Closely: Keep a close eye on your child’s symptoms and report any changes to their doctor. If symptoms worsen or new ones appear, seek medical advice immediately.
4. Provide Emotional Support: A concussion can be a frightening experience for a child. Reassure them that it’s okay to take time to heal and that they will feel better with rest and care.
5. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to the treatment plan provided by your healthcare professional, which may include follow-up appointments, rehabilitation exercises, or referrals to specialists if needed.

Concussions in children are not something to take lightly, but with the right knowledge and care, parents can play a vital role in their child’s recovery. If you suspect your child has sustained a concussion or if you’d like to learn more about managing head injuries, visit our website or book an appointment with our team at the Sydney Concussion Centre.

Your child’s health and well-being are our top priorities. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery with expert care and guidance.

Take the first step toward recovery today. If you’re experiencing prolonged symptoms or need expert guidance, book an appointment through our website link or contact our office on 18OO CONCUSSION | 1800 266 287.

Our team is here to help you on your recovery journey.

Recovering from a concussion can be a challenging journey but understanding what to expect can make the process smoother. A concussion, often caused by a blow to the head or a sudden jolt, is a mild traumatic brain injury that requires proper care and patience. This article will explore the typical recovery timeline, factors that can influence recovery, and practical tips for managing symptoms during the healing process.

 The Typical Recovery Timeline for a Concussion

Many people recover from a concussion within 7 to 10 days, but this timeline can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the injury. During the first 24 to 48 hours, relative rest is crucial. This means minimising physical and cognitive activities, such as exercise, screen time, and work. After this initial period, gradual reintroduction of activities is recommended, as long as symptoms do not worsen. For some individuals, symptoms may persist for weeks or even months, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms linger for more than a few weeks.

 Factors That Can Influence Recovery Time

Several factors can impact how quickly someone recovers from a concussion:

1. Age: Children and older adults may take longer to recover due to differences in brain development and resilience.
2. Previous Concussions: A history of concussions can increase recovery time and the risk of complications.
3. Severity of the Injury: More severe concussions often require longer recovery periods.
4. Pre-existing Conditions: Conditions such as migraine, anxiety, ADHD or depression can prolong recovery.
5. Adherence to Recovery Guidelines: Following medical advice and avoiding activities that could worsen symptoms are critical for a smooth recovery.

Tips for Managing Symptoms During Recovery

Managing concussion symptoms effectively can help speed up recovery and improve overall well-being. Here are some practical tips:

1. Prioritise Rest: Ensure you get plenty of sleep and take breaks throughout the day to avoid overexertion.
2. Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens, as they can worsen symptoms like headaches and eye strain.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper hydration and a balanced diet can support brain health and recovery.
4. Seek Professional Guidance: Consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice and to monitor your progress. We can give you specific advice on how to structure and plan your activity to foster improvement and manage an effective return to your normal activities.
5. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress, which can exacerbate symptoms.

Recovering from a concussion requires patience and care. By understanding the recovery timeline, recognising factors that influence healing, and following these tips, you can navigate the process with confidence. If you or a loved one is dealing with a concussion, remember that professional support is always available.

If you’re experiencing prolonged symptoms or need expert guidance, visit Sydney Concussion Centre website to book an appointment. Our team is here to help you on your recovery journey.

 Contact our office on 18OO CONCUSSION | 1800 266 287 for further advice

A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a sudden acceleration or deceleration force impacting the brain. This force disrupts normal brain function, depleting the brain’s energy reserves and triggering a variety of symptoms that can interfere with daily activities and overall well-being. Although concussions are often labelled as “mild,” this term can be misleading, as they can have profound and lasting effects on brain function and overall health. It is crucial to take concussions seriously and seek appropriate care to support recovery and prevent further complications.

Concussions can result from various causes, including falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or any situation where the head experiences a sudden force. They are particularly common in contact sports like rugby, football, and ice hockey, but they can happen to anyone, regardless of age or activity level.

Common Misconceptions About Concussions

There are several misconceptions about concussions that can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. One of the most prevalent myths is that you must lose consciousness to have a concussion. In reality, most concussions do not involve a loss of consciousness. Evidence suggests that whether or not a person lost consciousness has no bearing on the severity of the concussion injury. Symptoms can be subtle and may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, and difficulty concentrating.

Another misconception is that concussions are only serious if symptoms appear immediately. However, symptoms can sometimes take hours or even days to manifest. This delayed onset can make it challenging to recognise the injury and seek timely care.

Additionally, many people believe that a concussion is a one-time event with no long-term consequences. While most individuals recover fully with proper care, repeated concussions or inadequate treatment can lead to more severe complications, such as post-concussion syndrome or chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment of a concussion are crucial to ensure proper recovery and prevent further complications. If you suspect a concussion, it’s essential to stop any activity that could worsen the injury and seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the concussion and provide guidance on rest, gradual return to activities, and any necessary therapies.

Ignoring a concussion or returning to physical or cognitive activities too soon can increase the risk of prolonged symptoms. This is because your brain is low in energy and pushing it too hard simply reduces the energy available to your brain on an ongoing basis. Continuing a sporting activity and sustaining another concussion to the head could lead to second impact syndrome.

This condition occurs when a second concussion is sustained before the first one has fully healed, leading to potentially life-threatening brain swelling injuries and a significantly longer recovery time.

At Sydney Concussion Centre, we understand the importance of early intervention and evidence-based care. Our team is dedicated to helping individuals recover safely and effectively, providing tailored treatment plans to support each patient’s unique needs.

If you or someone you know has experienced a head injury, don’t wait to seek help. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in recovery. Visit our website to learn more about our services or book an appointment today.

Contact our office on 18OO CONCUSSION | 1800 266 287 for further advice

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur from a blow to the head, a fall, or any other incident that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. They can have serious consequences if not properly managed. If you suspect you’ve suffered a concussion, it’s crucial to take immediate and appropriate steps to ensure proper recovery. This Sydney Concussion Centre blog will guide you through what to do if you get a concussion.

Immediate Steps To Take After a Concussion

1. Stop All Activities | Immediate Rest: As soon as you suspect a concussion, cease all physical and cognitive activities. This includes stopping sports, exercise, and tasks that require concentration, such as reading or using electronic devices.
2. Seek Medical Attention | Professional Evaluation: Visit a healthcare professional experienced in concussion management as soon as possible. All the team at Sydney Concussion Centre are highly trained in concussion management. They will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a neurological exam and cognitive testing.
3. Inform Key Individuals | Communicate: Inform your coach, employer, or school about your injury so they are aware of your situation and can provide the necessary support and accommodations.

Concussion symptoms can vary widely and may not appear immediately. Being aware of these symptoms can help you seek timely medical attention. Common symptoms are:

A structured recovery plan is essential for managing a concussion effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the recovery process:

Step 1: Initial Rest and Symptom Monitoring

• Complete Rest: For the first 24-48 hours, prioritize complete physical and cognitive rest. Avoid activities that require physical exertion or intense concentration.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting their severity and any changes. This information will be valuable for healthcare providers.

Step 2: Gradual Reintroduction of Light Activity

• Symptom-Limited Activity: After the initial rest period, you can begin to reintroduce light activities that do not exacerbate symptoms. This might include light walking or simple, non-strenuous tasks.
• Avoid Overexertion: Be cautious not to overdo it. If symptoms return or worsen, reduce activity levels and consult your healthcare provider.

Step 3: Structured Rehabilitation Plan

• Customized Rehabilitation: Work with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan. This plan should include a gradual increase in physical and cognitive activities, tailored to your specific symptoms and recovery progress.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Engage with various healthcare specialists such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and neuropsychologists as needed. At Sydney Concussion Centre, highly trained concussion Physiotherapists are ready to assist you in your recovery journey.

Step 4: Cognitive and Physical Exercise

• Cognitive Exercise: Gradually reintroduce cognitive tasks such as reading, writing, and using a computer. Start with short, manageable periods and slowly increase the duration.
• Physical Exercise: Begin light aerobic exercises, such as walking or stationary cycling, as tolerated. Avoid activities that risk further head injury.

Step 5: Return to Normal Activities

• Step-by-Step Progression: Follow a structured return-to-play or return-to-work protocol. This involves gradually resuming regular activities in a controlled and monitored manner.
• Medical Clearance: Ensure you receive medical clearance from a healthcare provider before fully returning to high-risk activities or competitive sports.

If you suspect you have a concussion, taking the right steps immediately can significantly impact your recovery. By following a structured recovery plan, seeking professional medical advice, and taking care of your overall health, you can ensure a safer and more effective return to your regular activities. The highly trained team at Sydney Concussion Centre can help you in your recovery. Remember, every concussion is unique, and recovery times can vary, so always listen to your body and consult with us throughout your recovery journey.

Concussions, commonly known as mild traumatic brain injuries, are increasingly gaining attention due to their potential long-term effects. While many individuals recover well from a concussion, as early as seven to ten days following the event, some experience persistent symptoms that can last for months or even years. This raises a worrying question: will these symptoms be permanent? Will this continue to affect my life? Will I ever feel ‘normal’?

Understanding what a concussion is and its effects on the brain is essential in addressing this question. A concussion is defined as an injury induced from a mechanical force or trauma to the brain leading to temporary impairment of the normal brain function. Commonly classified as a functional injury, a concussion occurs when the neurons in the brain shear and stretch, leading to a neurometabolic cascade. Put simply, during a concussion, the brain releases a large amount of cell energy, which requires time and additional energy to replenish. This results in an energy deficit that requires approximately 22 to 45 days to restore.

While the brain typically metabolically recovers within this timeframe, physiological symptom recovery can vary, as mentioned earlier. If symptoms persist, it’s important to recognize the necessity of a comprehensive assessment to develop a thorough management plan for addressing unresolved physiological symptoms.

Recovery is possible!!!

Read more information by exploring  the 8 domains of a concussion injury. 

 No two concussions are the same – there are always individual variations. Understanding individualized treatment programs and identifying pre-existing or new contributing factors will be essential in preventing PCS from becoming permanent.

Two Italian research papers written in 2012 give us the best evidence for the timing of a safe return to Sport. (1,2).  

It is well known that after a concussion, the brain has reduced energy levels, often by up to 20%. The brain weighs about 2% of our body weight but uses 15-20% of our blood flow. This is because it needs a lot of energy to perform the complex processing of all the information it receives as well as driving all the functions it performs, even when we are sleeping! 

Measuring these energy stores is very difficult but this group of Italian researchers were able to assess energy levels using a complex and costly measure called Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (PMRS). 

A concussion disrupts the important energy stores in our brain. Here are the important points they learned from their research.  

• Eleven athletes, (3 females and 8 males) who had a Sports Related Concussion were tested using the PMRS on Day 3, 15, 30 and 45 after the concussion. They compared the results with 11 healthy matched controls, who did the same testing. The athletes with concussion had reduced energy levels, compared to the non-injured controls at Day 3  and Day 15. At Day 30 they were still less but very minimally, (and not significant), with energy levels back to normal at Day 45. 

• Those results were for the athletes who did the proper rehabilitation. However, 6 of the athletes decided to go back to sport before their energy levels were back to normal. “Why did they do that?” you ask…. It was because they felt OK.  

Even though energy levels take 30+ days to recover, the athlete’s symptoms settled much quicker,  on average by Day 15,  post injury. As they ‘felt’ ok,  they thought they were ready to go back to sport. (Interestingly all 6 were males – 2 soccer players,3 boxers and a rugby player) 

• All 6 of these athletes sustained another concussion, whilst their brain was still low on energy from the first concussion. The results showed that the second time around, they had more symptoms (4-6) compared to the initial injury (2-3) and they took, on average, 41 days for the symptoms to settle. That’s almost three times longer than the single concussion athletes.  

• The most telling result was the time for the energy levels to get back to normal for the double concussion athletes. This was 81 days(av) – THREE TIMES LONGER than the athletes who didn’t return to sport 

WHATS THE LESSON TO BE LEARNT? 

1. Feeling good (that is, no symptoms) is not a great measure for return to sport. 
2.  Having a second concussion before your brain has recovered from the first, creates longer term issues and may be the end of your season! 

References 

1. Decrease in N-Acetylaspartate Following Concussion May Be Coupled to Decrease in Creatine Roberto Vagnozzi et al, J Head Trauma Rehabil (2012). 

1. The Importance of Restriction from Physical Activity in the Metabolic Recovery of Concussed Brain, Giuseppe Lazzarino et al, Chap 25, Brain Injury – Pathogenesis, Monitoring, Recovery and Management, (2012). 

Our certified clinics specialise in all aspects of concussion treatment. Our approach is to first take you through a series of assessments and special tests to determine your main symptom drivers. Once we know what’s driving your symptoms, then we can apply the appropriate steps to address it. 

Exercise Therapy 

Many patients become intolerant to exercise after concussion.  This is due to dysregulation of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and brain blood flow. 

Following a short period of rest and symptom-limited activity, guided sub-symptom threshold exercise therapy has shown to safely and gradually improve blood flow and speed recovery. 

Manual Therapy 

Headaches, balance and visual issues, dizziness and blood flow abnormalities are symptoms of both concussion and neck injuries (or whiplash). 

Oftentimes ongoing concussion symptoms are coming from your neck, which can be treated with manual therapy and specific exercises to improve function. 

Vestibular Rehabilitation & Vision Therapy 

Visual disturbances and dizziness are common following concussion. 

A balance and visual rehabilitation program may help to reduce symptoms such as dizziness, visual abnormalities, concentration issues and memory problems, among other symptoms 

Diet & Nutritional Intervention 

Within 3 hours after a concussion, the lining of your gut begins to change because of the close relationship with the brain, known as the ‘Gut-Brain Axis’.  This system is tightly linked with your immune system, inflammation, the Autonomic Nervous System, and your hormones (Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis). 

Chronic fatigue, low energy, cognitive problems, headaches, anxiety, low mood, and a variety of other symptoms can be traced back to poor gut health. 

Cognitive Problems 

These common complaints such as fogginess, trouble concentrating, and memory impairments are multifactorial and require a comprehensive approach. 

Understanding exactly what is going on and why you feel a certain way can help to improve recovery. 

To recover effectively from concussion a structured approach, both physically and cognitively, is important. The following outlines our recommended process.  
These stages run concurrently with each stage being assessed by our practitioners to ensure your effective recovery and safe return to activity. 

It is important to remember that this is a guideline only – every concussion is unique so the rehabilitation process has its own ‘nuances’ and curve balls which is why we strongly recommend that you have our practitioners support you through the process to make it as efficient as possible. 

Sydney Concussion Centre practitioners look forward to helping you navigate your concussion rehabilitation process! 

The answer to this question is “Yes” and “No”. 

Concussion is caused by an acceleration and deceleration of the brain inside the skull. Due to this, the nerve cells in the brain to become stretched and stimulated, resulting in a surge of electrical activity. This causes the initial symptoms of a person falling to the ground, finding it difficult to stand up and generally being disorientated. This may only last a minute or two but the surge utilises a huge amount of energy which the brain finds difficult to restore to normal levels; hence, the ongoing symptoms of concussion.  

What if you could limit the effect of the acceleration/deceleration injury to the brain. Neck strength has been suggested as one way of limiting the effect of the concussion on the brain, however it’s not really as simple as that. 

Research has shown that decreasing the forces applied to the head can possibly reduce the likelihood of suffering a concussion. Reducing these forces to the head is more related to neck stiffness, not necessarily neck strength. Increasing neck stiffness could reduce the forces applied to the head therefore reducing the chance of suffering a concussion.  

There is a big difference when an athlete is prepared for impact and when they are not.  

When an athlete knows an impact is coming, they are more likely to tense up and contract their neck muscles and therefore increase their neck stiffness. When an athlete is unaware of a potential impact, they are more likely to be relaxed and therefore reduce their neck stiffness.  

It is important to note that an athlete with a stronger neck will have greater neck stiffness and therefore a decreased chance of sustaining a concussion.  Generally, it comes down to whether the athlete is ready for impact or not. The athlete who is unaware of potential impact will be more likely to suffer a concussion injury.  

Ultimately improving your neck strength will reduce the likelihood of concussion as long as the athlete is prepared for the impact. Improving an athlete’s ‘game awareness’ could lead to a decreased chance of concussion because they will be more likely to know when a potential ‘concussion hit’ may be about to happen, hence they will be prepared for the hit. This comes with experience but can also be accomplished with coaching proper technique and game preparation.