What is Post-Concussion Syndrome?

Post-concussion syndrome is a complex type of disorder that usually emerges after a head injury or trauma—i.e. a concussion—occurs. What makes it such a complex disorder is that the symptoms are various, plus they can last for months or even years after the head trauma incident has taken place. Some people do not display these symptoms until long after the fact, while for others symptoms can arise immediately and then last for the months or years previously described.

What are the effects?

Concussions can present with a range of symptoms after the trauma has occurred, including fatigue, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, and headaches. Each case can vary from mild symptoms to severe, depending on the nature of the incident where the head trauma occurred. Car accidents and falls can also produce mild to moderate to severe states of post-concussion syndrome.

How is it treated?

Our therapists can tailor your post-concussion syndrome therapy as needed and monitor your progress meanwhile. We use a combination of physiotherapy techniques based on the severity of your case and how long the symptoms have lasted.

What should I expect from sessions?

The initial session is an assessment in which we go over your entire medical history, as well as all information relating to the initial incident. We then go over with you treatment options as well as a customized plan of action that best suits your case and symptoms. Following sessions include exercises applied by our physiotherapists, as well as exercises you can use at home to hasten the healing process.

How long does it last?

Statistically, the majority of clients will see symptom resolution within the first 3 months. However, some clients experience persistent signs and symptoms beyond this timeframe. It is important to note that symptom resolution does not indicate full recovery, as studies have shown that your nervous system is still recovering and in a vulnerable state even after symptoms have resolved.

What can complicate receiving treatment further is if there are any underlying factors in your current state, such as cervical spine problems. These should be addressed first beforehand to determine if such underlying causes are in fact the main cause of your condition.

How much will it cost?

Initial assessments are one hour long and cost $140. After your initial assessment, your therapist will create a customized treatment plan for you and inform you of how often you need to return for treatment and progression of your program.

If your post-concussion syndrome is diagnosed from a head injury in a car accident, or you’ve experienced a concussion injury while at work, your therapy sessions will be completely covered by ICBC and WorkSafeBC. Clients with active claims from either organization are accepted at our clinic, with no user fees or hidden fees to pay. For more information on coverage visit our ICBC & WorkSafeBC service page.