Concussion and vestibular symptoms
Concussion and vestibular symptoms can include headache, dizziness, balance difficulties, sensitivity to light or noise, neck discomfort, and a general sense of not thinking clearly. Symptoms commonly ease within a typical recovery window for many people, though some notice lingering effects that benefit from a more structured, guided approach.
Vestibular symptoms, such as dizziness or unsteadiness, can occur on their own or alongside a concussion, and presentations vary widely depending on the person and the nature of the original injury. Some people notice symptoms mainly with certain head movements or busy visual environments, while others describe a more constant unsteadiness.
Because concussion recovery is highly individual, general education can only describe common presentations rather than any one person's recovery path. This page explains, in general terms, how physiotherapy commonly supports concussion and vestibular symptoms at the clinic.
It is educational information, not a diagnosis, and any new head injury or worsening symptoms should be assessed urgently rather than through this page. See the safety note below.
How We Can Help
How we can help
Physiotherapy
Our Registered Physiotherapist assesses concussion and vestibular symptoms, including balance, eye movement, and neck involvement, and builds a staged, individualized plan from there rather than a fixed timeline.
Treatment commonly combines manual therapy for associated neck tension with a guided, progressive exercise program aimed at supporting balance, tolerance to movement, and a gradual return to normal activity, work, and, where relevant, sport.
Getting Started
Your first visit
A first visit for concussion or vestibular symptoms starts with a detailed history of the injury or symptom onset, followed by an assessment of balance, eye movement, and neck mobility to understand your particular presentation.
From there, your physiotherapist explains what they are seeing and lays out a general, staged plan, adjusting the pace to how your symptoms respond over time rather than a fixed number of visits. Book online through Jane; extended health receipts are provided, and direct billing is rolling out now, starting with Sun Life.
Good to Know
Concussion and vestibular symptoms FAQs
How soon after a concussion should physiotherapy start?
It depends on the individual case, and initial medical clearance is important first. Your physiotherapist can talk through general timing at your assessment.
Do I need a referral to be assessed for concussion or vestibular symptoms?
No referral is required to book an assessment, though if you have already seen a physician, sharing their guidance helps your physiotherapist build a fuller plan.
What if my symptoms are severe or getting worse?
A new head injury, worsening symptoms, or any red-flag signs need urgent medical assessment rather than a physiotherapy appointment. See the safety note below.
Will I need to stop work, school, or sport during recovery?
It depends entirely on your presentation and how your symptoms respond to activity. Your physiotherapist builds a general, staged plan at your assessment and adjusts it as you progress, rather than applying one fixed rule to everyone.
Can vestibular symptoms be assessed without a recent concussion?
Yes. Dizziness and balance concerns can be assessed on their own, and your physiotherapist will take a full history to understand whether a past injury, another factor, or no clear single cause seems to be involved.
If symptoms are severe, sudden, or getting worse, such as intense pain, loss of function, a new or worsening head injury, or any other urgent concern, seek urgent medical care or call 9-1-1 rather than waiting for an appointment. This page is general information, not medical advice, and does not replace an assessment from a qualified healthcare provider.
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