Protecting your brain

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Concussion Management & Expectations

We serve an important role in managing concussions by providing immediate service to those who have sustained a concussion. One of the tools we use to assist in the recovery process is the administration of ImPACT® testing, the most-widely used and most scientifically validated Computerized Neurocognitive Evaluation System.

We provide vestibular and ocular motor treatments which are systems that are typically affected by a concussion, particularly among those who are experiencing delayed recovery. We also offer concussion education and awareness.

*Acute concussions will be provided management assistance within 48 hours.

Concussion symptoms present in a variety of ways. Each concussion sustained needs to be addressed according to its unique symptoms. Concussions typically resolve in 48-72 hours. Symptoms that continue beyond this time frame mean that the individual requires professional assistance.

ImPACT® Test

(Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) provides baseline testing for for all athletes especially those in contact sports. This testing is done pre-season and assists with recovery if the athlete sustains a concussion.

Contact us to set up your ImPACT® Baseline Test before you start your season.

Concussion:
Education. Testing. Treatment

 

Assessment

 

The assessment includes a detailed history involving the SCAT 5 (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool). It is important that a thorough assessment of the history of the concussion and the days after be evaluated.

 

Treatment

 

Immediate treatment. It is important that a concussion be dealt with quickly and appropriately to prevent a prolonged recovery or post-concussion signs and symptoms.

A detailed home program will be developed in co-relation with the dominant signs and symptoms to assist with the recovery.

 

Assessment Detail

 

Assessment in the clinic will include the following tests/screens:

  • ImPACT Neurocognitive Testing

  • Balance Testing

  • Ocular Motor Screening

  • Neck Proprioception Testing

  • Vertigo Testing

  • Vestibular Ocular Reflex Testing

  • Motion Sensitivity Testing

  • Neck Treatments

  • Return to play/work program

*See sample illustrations below

In Office Concussion Assessment Detail

Ocular Motor Screen: A screening tool to help detect how the systems responsible for integrating vision, balance, and movement have been affected by a concussion.
ImPACT Neurocognitive Testing: Scientifically validated computerized testing is used to evaluate the severity of a concussion and, by comparing ongoing results to a baseline test, to track recovery.
Balance Testing: Balance disorders can lead to symptoms of dizziness, headache, and vertigo. Exercises to restore balance will minimize these symptoms and assist in the recovery of a concussion.
Neck proprioception An assessment of one’s awareness of the position of the head in relation to the body, particularly with movement. Poor proprioception can lead to a prolonged recovery of the symptoms from a concussion.
Neck Treatments: Soft tissues injuries are commonly sustained to the area of the neck after sustaining a concussion. Any sprain or strain of soft tissue in the neck area can cause symptoms such as ongoing headaches.
Return to play/work program: It is important to develop an individualized program of modified hours and activities when returning to work/play after a concussion. It is necessary to monitor and adjust the program to ensure that the symptoms will no
Vertigo: Vertigo is the sense of spinning dizziness that may be experienced after sustaining a concussion.
Vestibular Ocular Reflex/Motion Sensitivity: A screening tool used to assess the ability to see clearly while doing movements. Particularly with fast movements, a concussion can cause dizziness and headaches in these situations.

Services & Treatments

 

Myofascial / Soft Tissue Release

A thin tough membrane surrounds the soft tissue of the body. It can become stiff and fixed so that body movements are affected. Sustained holds and pressure loosen up the restricted tissue relieving pain.

 

Shock Wave Therapy


Pressurized air delivers waves of energy at the injured site to break down scar tissue. It is set at the client’s comfort level. It is very successful with chronic injuries such as plantar fasciitis.

Ultrasound


Sound waves from the modality promote healing through several mechanisms. Ultrasound can increase blood flow to the injured site, breaks down scar tissue and swelling and reduce inflammation that all inhibit efficient healing.

 

Vertigo, Dizziness and Balance (Vestibular-inner ear) Rehabilitation

Individualized one on one sessions that are exercise based to promote recovery from vertigo, dizziness and balance issues. The treatment sessions may include head manevours, neck treatments, inner ear, vision and balance exercises and education. Exercises at home are crucial for recovery.

Acupuncture


A compliment to other aspects of rehab. It is an alternate treatment that involves the insertion of very thin needles through the skin at strategic points on the body. This promotes muscle relaxation, increased blood to the area and pain relief among other benefits.

 

Sport Taping

Muscles, tendons and joints injuries can recover faster with support from a variety of taping/support techniques.

Strength and Conditioning


The injured area must have good strength and mobility in order to support healing. Strengthening program and flexibility programs ensure a full recovery

 

Massage Therapy


Physiotherapists/Athletic Therapists include massage therapy around the injured area with their treatments. Massage quiets down muscle spasm and assists in flushing out swelling in the surrounding area.

We treat athletic injuries.

The competitive athlete, the weekend athlete and those who are active can enjoy their physical activity more by being flexible and strong enough to be pain free during and after their activity.  Strength and conditioning with exercise and yoga are options.  Your activity may also benefit from us being at the sidelines or at the end of your event.

Active Life Rehab+ Massage

The trained therapist provides hands-on-techniques helping the body is able to achieve multiple benefits from increased flexibility, reduced tension and headaches to improved healing and pain relief, especially when coupled in the rehabilitation phases.  

Our bodies respond to massage therapy and benefit from massage under a variety of circumstances from post injury to regular recovery, during and after a stressful event, for regular recovery assistance from daily rigour of life, work and play.