We treat concussion in Bendigo and Ballarat.
Professional assessment, treatment and recovery guidance for concussion-related issues, helping clients manage symptoms, regain function, and safely return to sport, study or work.
01 / Conditions we treat
Conditions we treat.
Concussion
"Concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, neck or body resulting in an impulsive force being transmitted to the brain that occurs in sports and exercise-related activities. Symptoms and signs may present immediately, or evolve over minutes or hours, and commonly resolve within days, but may be prolonged." (Patricios et al., 2023 BJSM)
What's our approach?
Due to this wide variation in clinic presentation, we conduct thorough assessments to determine the severity and unique characteristics of each concussion. Treatment plans are tailored to manage symptoms effectively using strict guidelines and research relating to the structure of rehabilitation to allow for full resolution of symptoms and gradual reintroduction to activity under a health professional's supervision. Our primary goal is to guide clients safely back to their sport or activity, whilst minimising the risk of further injury.
Persistent Concussion Symptoms (PCS)
Formerly known as post-concussion syndrome, persistent concussion symptoms are defined as having at least 3 of the following symptoms, 4 weeks after injury; headache, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, sleep problems, concentration problems, memory problems, problems tolerating stress/emotion/alcohol (ICD-10). When symptoms are persisting, worsen or are not progressively resolving 2-4 weeks post injury, a multimodal evaluation and referral for rehabilitation is recommended (Patricios et al., 2023).
What's our approach?
It is estimated that more than 30% of all concussions will go on to have long-standing symptoms (de Koning et al., 2016). It is therefore recommended that those with persistent concussion symptoms that include headache, neck pain and dizziness for more than 10 days complete rehabilitation, guided by a health professional such as a physiotherapist (Patricios et al., 2023). At our clinics, we aim to both minimise the likelihood of our clients experiencing on-going persistent concussion symptoms and assist and guide treatment for those clients that are experiencing on-going issues relating to their concussion. This requires an in-depth assessment to help us understand the possible contributing factors relating to the on-going symptoms, and therefore how we can structure your rehabilitation.
02 / What to expect
What to expect during your visit.
1. Before your first visit
- Ensure you have a referral stating a diagnosis of concussion, from a doctor of your choosing. This is not required if your concussion occurred more than four weeks ago.
- After booking, you'll receive a text message guiding you through client information forms and a phone application download. Please ensure this is completed prior to arriving.
2. Initial consultation
- Your concussion-trained practitioner gathers important information about your concussion and completes a thorough assessment to identify the specific treatments you require.
- You'll be put through a thorough screening and assessment process to guide your individual treatment and rehabilitation plan.
- Aerobic, visual, vestibular and cervical exercises may be prescribed, depending on your assessment findings.
3. Subsequent consultations
- You'll be guided through your rehabilitation to assist with return to school, work and sport whilst being treated for your specific symptoms via a targeted treatment approach.
- You will be continuously re-assessed throughout your follow up appointments to allow us to identify what systems of the body are dysfunctional.
- Treatments can include soft tissue and joint mobilisation, dry needling, and exercise prescription including cardiovascular, balance, coordination, visual and vestibular work as needed.
4. Final consultation & clearance
- An extensive testing session that may include a maximal exertion physical test (if returning to sport), neuro-cognitive testing, memory recall, reaction time, balance and other aspects of physical and cognitive function.
- This step applies only to those returning to sport or high-risk activities. Once you pass, you'll need a signed clearance form from a medical practitioner (doctor) before returning to contact training and competition. We provide your testing results and a rehabilitation overview to take to your doctor.
03 / Consultations & pricing
Our process & services.
Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, an assessment will be conducted, using a range of tools and techniques to accurately plan and individualise your rehabilitation.
Follow-up Consultation
Tailored treatment plans, including graded exercise, cognitive exercises, vestibular and ocular re-training, manual therapy and lifestyle adjustments to support recovery.
Baseline Testing
Pre-season baseline testing to monitor pre-injury cognitive function, coordination and balance to compare and guide post-concussion care.
04 / Service information
What we can offer as a concussion clinic.
What we DO offer for concussion patients
- A thorough assessment of your concussion, headache or migraine symptoms, exercise capacity, balance, coordination, neck and cervical spine dysfunction, dizziness, visual capabilities, vestibular dysfunction, neurocognitive abilities, memory recall, and reaction time.
- Treatment for the above using physiotherapy-specific techniques such as soft tissue and joint mobilisation, dry needling, exercise prescription, balance and coordination exercises, neurocognitive re-training, cervical spine rehabilitation, visual and vestibular exercises.
- Comprehensive individual baseline screening tests, completed in clinic or remotely.
- Treatment and guidance for the management of persistent concussion symptoms (PCS).
- Return to school, work and sports guidance.
- Sleep hygiene management.
- Lifestyle and pacing strategies.
What we DO NOT offer for concussion patients
- A diagnosis of concussion. This is required from a certified medical practitioner (doctor) of the client's choosing prior to attending an initial consultation. A referral can be brought with you to your initial appointment, or it can be sent to admin@bendigoconcussion.com.au or admin@ballaratconcussion.com.au. A referral is not required if the concussion occurred more than four weeks ago.
- A final return-to-play clearance. Our clinics provide rehabilitation until the final hurdle of return to contact training and competition. At that stage a medical professional (doctor) is required to provide a signed clearance form for the athlete. We help guide this process to assist with a smooth return to play.
05 / FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Do you require a baseline test to be treated for a concussion?
No, the baseline test is useful for individual testing post concussion, however we have protocols to treat those who have not completed a baseline test.
Do I need a referral?
Yes, you are required to have a diagnosis letter/referral of a concussion from a doctor. You do not require a referral if your concussion occurred more than four weeks ago.
Do you accept private health insurance?
Yes, those who have physiotherapy covered with their private health fund will be able to claim.
Can I get a return to sport clearance?
You will be taken through the entire rehabilitation process and then, once your clinic is satisfied with your progress, you will be referred to a doctor to complete the final signing of paperwork to return you to sport.
Can I get a diagnosis of concussion?
No, this is required prior to your initial consultation. This must be obtained via a certified medical practitioner (doctor).
Length and pricing of consultations?
Initial consultations run for 1 hour ($195.00), follow-up consultations for 45 minutes ($165.00), and team-based baseline testing takes around 30 minutes total at $20 per person.
Book a Consultation
Our team is dedicated to providing the utmost quality of care and treatment. Reach out to start your recovery journey.