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Concussion after a Collision Edmonton
Screening and rehabilitation for concussion sustained in a motor vehicle collision.
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What Is a Concussion After a Collision?
Concussion after a collision Edmonton can occur without the head striking anything. Screening may cover the neck, vestibular and visual systems, as well as exercise tolerance. Concussion rehabilitation may be eligible for funding under Section B when it is documented as part of the initial assessment.
Common Causes of Concussion After a Collision
Concussion is caused by rapid movement of the brain within the skull. In a collision, the acceleration and deceleration forces alone are enough — no direct head impact is required, and no loss of consciousness is required either.
This is the single most common misunderstanding we see, and it leads people to leave genuine concussion unassessed for weeks.
Common Concussion Symptoms After a Collision
- Headache, pressure in the head, or neck pain
- Dizziness, balance problems or nausea
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Difficulty concentrating, or feeling mentally slowed
- Sleep disruption, irritability or unusual emotional response
- Blurred vision or difficulty focusing while reading or driving
When Should You Seek Care After a Collision?
Concussion assessment after a collision has to separate several overlapping sources, because the neck is almost always involved too. We assess the cervical spine, the vestibular system, visual and oculomotor function, and exercise tolerance — then treat whichever of those is driving symptoms.
Sub-threshold aerobic exercise, introduced early and progressed carefully, is now standard practice rather than the extended rest once recommended.
Returning to Daily Activities After a Concussion
Concussion rehabilitation is fundable under Section B where it is documented in the initial assessment. That is a practical argument for having a thorough first assessment rather than a quick one — undocumented symptoms are harder to fund later.
Questions people ask
Can you get a concussion without hitting your head?
Yes. The acceleration and deceleration forces in a collision can move the brain within the skull without any direct impact. Loss of consciousness is also not required for a concussion to have occurred.
How long does concussion recovery take?
Many people recover within two to four weeks. A proportion take longer, and persistent symptoms usually respond better to active rehabilitation than to continued rest.
Should I rest in a dark room after a concussion?
Extended rest is no longer recommended. Current practice is a brief initial rest period followed by gradual reintroduction of activity and sub-threshold aerobic exercise.
I did not hit my head. Can I still have a concussion?
Yes. A concussion is caused by rapid acceleration and deceleration of the brain, which happens in a collision without any impact to the head. If you have headache, fogginess, sensitivity to light or trouble concentrating since the crash, say so at the assessment.
When can I drive again?
Not while symptoms are active, particularly slowed reaction time or difficulty concentrating. Return to driving is part of the graded plan and is discussed at each visit rather than left to guesswork.
Is concussion treatment covered under Section B?
Yes. Concussion from a motor vehicle collision is funded under Section B and Vertex bills directly. Radha Durai Babu has training in concussion management and takes most of these cases.
Book concussion after a collision in Edmonton
Vertex Physiotherapy is at 6958 76 Ave NW #205, Edmonton, AB T6B 2R2. Call (825) 525-2852 or book online, and we will match you with a physiotherapist for concussion after a collision.