Concussion

Concussion occurs as a result of an impulsive force transmitted to the head, and can involve difficulties with concentration, sleep and emotional changes, and can lead to dizziness, headaches and neck pain, amongst other symptoms.

HISTORY:

A 29 year old teacher (DA) suffered a concussion during a fall onto play equipment at work in 2018. After two weeks off work, she was finding work difficult to cope with, needing to sleep for a few hours after work and finding simple tasks difficult as the day progressed.

EXAMINATION:

DA had feelings of anxiety, headaches, dizziness, a sore neck, was unable to use her technological devices for more than a few minutes, be in busy environments or go out for meals with friends and family as she had prior to her injury on most days.

TREATMENT:

DA had Neurophysiotherapy sessions three times per week for three months, reducing to twice weekly for three months with ongoing support as needed during the graduated return to work process. These sessions focused on reducing the autonomic responses (racing heart rate, butterflies in her tummy, anxious feelings), cognitive fatigue, vestibular/dizziness and cervicogenic issues with exercises, education and manual therapy.

OUTCOME:

DA has been able to return to her previous gym routine, stand-up paddle boarding and socialising regularly. She was able to go on a family holiday on cruise ships and has returned to full time work currently with increased supports in the classroom, but the continued plan is for this to reduce over time.