Concussion & Headache Physiotherapy

Clear assessment. Evidence-based care. Safe recovery.

At Head2Toe, we provide physiotherapy assessment and management for concussion (mild traumatic brain injury) and for common headache conditions, including cervicogenic headaches, tension-type headaches, and migraines.While these conditions can sometimes coexist, they are assessed and treated as distinct clinical problems, each requiring a targeted and informed approach.

Common Concussion Symptoms

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

Headache or pressure in the head
Dizziness or balance problems
Nausea or light sensitivity
Blurred or double vision
Difficulty concentrating or remembering
Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
Mood changes or sleep disturbance

What Causes a Concussion?

Concussions result from a sudden blow, jolt, or forceful impact that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull.

Common causes include:

Contact sports (e.g. football, soccer, basketball)
Falls
Motor vehicle accidents
Physical assaults
Workplace incidents

Importantly, direct head impact is not always required. Whiplash-type forces alone can be sufficient to cause concussion.

Understanding Recovery Timelines

While many people feel symptom improvement within a few days, neurological recovery typically takes 3–4 weeks.

Even if symptoms settle within the first 3–5 days:

The brain remains more vulnerable to further injury
There is no direct way to measure internal brain healing
A graded, monitored return to activity is essential

Proper management reduces the risk of prolonged symptoms and repeat injury.

What to Expect – Concussion Appointments

Comprehensive Assessment

Detailed history and symptom review
Screening for red flags
Balance, coordination, eye tracking, and neck assessment

Individualised Recovery Plan

Clear explanation of your diagnosis
A staged plan based on current guidelines
Adjusted to your work, school, or sporting demands

Guidance on Rest & Activity

Advice on initial rest
When and how to reintroduce physical and cognitive activity

Ongoing Monitoring

Symptom tracking over time
Progression adjusted based on response

Return to Learn, Work & Sport

Structured, step-by-step progression
Focus on safety, confidence, and long-term brain health

Headache Physiotherapy

Assessment and treatment of headache conditions

Headaches are common and often recurring. Physiotherapy can play an important role in managing headaches that are driven or influenced by the neck, muscles, posture, and nervous system.

We assess and treat headaches as a separate condition from concussion, unless a clear link is identified.

Types of Headaches We Treat

Cervicogenic Headaches

Headaches originating from the neck, often associated with:

Neck pain or stiffness
Headaches starting at the base of the skull
Symptoms aggravated by neck movement or posture

Tension-Type Headaches

Often described as a tight, pressure-like sensation:

Band-like pain around the head
Associated neck and shoulder tension
Linked to stress, posture, or sustained positions

Migraines (Physiotherapy Support)

While migraines are neurological in origin, physiotherapy can help manage:

Neck and muscle contributors
Movement sensitivity
Associated dizziness or neck pain
Exercise tolerance and lifestyle factors

How We Treat Headaches

Treatment depends on headache type and contributing factors and may include:

Cervical spine assessment and treatment
Muscle tension management
Postural and movement retraining
Education on triggers and load management
Targeted exercise programs
Strategies to reduce recurrence

Our aim is to reduce frequency, intensity, and impact on daily life.

Who We Help

We commonly work with:

Children and teens in contact sports
Students struggling with concentration after head injury
Athletes returning to sport after concussion
Desk workers with neck-related headaches
People with long-standing or recurring headaches
Older adults after falls with dizziness or confusion
Workers in high-risk jobs with head or whiplash injuries

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or force to the head or body that disrupts brain function.

Do I need complete rest after a concussion?

Initial rest (24–48 hours) is important, but prolonged rest can delay recovery. Gradual, guided activity is now best practice.

How long does recovery take?

Most people recover within 7–14 days, but full neurological recovery takes longer. Early, appropriate management reduces prolonged symptoms.

Can I have a concussion if scans are normal?

Yes. Concussions are functional injuries and usually do not appear on CT or MRI.

Can physio help headaches?

Yes—especially cervicogenic and tension-type headaches, and as part of a broader migraine management plan.

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