Concussion Treatment

A concussion should always be taken seriously. Even when symptoms seem mild, returning to work, school or sport too soon can increase the risk of prolonged recovery, repeat injury and ongoing complications.

Our experienced team can provide physio-led concussion assessment, rehabilitation and safe return-to-play guidance to help you recover properly and confidently.

Concussion Assessment & Management Adelaide | Sports Concussion Physio St Marys

Concussion Assessment & Management in Adelaide

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head, body or sudden force that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull.

It may occur during:

  • AFL / football
  • Soccer
  • Netball / basketball
  • Cycling
  • Falls
  • Car accidents
  • Workplace incidents
  • Gym or recreational accidents

Symptoms may appear immediately or over the following hours.

Common Concussion Symptoms

You may notice:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Balance problems
  • Nausea
  • Light or noise sensitivity
  • Neck pain
  • Brain fog
  • Slower thinking
  • Fatigue
  • Mood changes
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Difficulty concentrating
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Why Returning Too Soon Can Be Risky

Trying to “push through” a concussion or returning to contact sport too early can increase the risk of:

  • Longer recovery times
  • Worsening symptoms
  • Poor reaction time and decision making
  • Repeat concussion
  • Greater injury risk on field
  • Ongoing headaches or dizziness
  • Reduced academic/work performance

This is why proper assessment and graduated return-to-play planning matters.

AFL Concussion Guidelines & Return to Play

For AFL and many community sports, suspected concussion should be removed from play immediately and assessed appropriately. Same-day return to play is not recommended after concussion.

Return to training and matches should follow a staged progression once symptoms have settled and clinical guidance has been provided. Current competition rules and medical policies may vary by league and season, so we recommend checking your governing body requirements as well.

How Physiotherapy Can Help Concussion Recovery

Our physiotherapists combine symptom management with targeted rehabilitation to help you recover safely and thoroughly.

You won’t just be told to rest indefinitely or guess when to return.

Treatment may include:

  • Comprehensive concussion screening
  • Symptom monitoring
  • Neck assessment and treatment
  • Balance retraining
  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Eye tracking / visual movement exercises
  • Graduated aerobic exercise planning
  • Return to school/work guidance
  • Return to sport planning


Where neck stiffness or headaches are contributing, hands-on treatment may also be used appropriately.

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Possible Longer-Term Complications If Poorly Managed


Most people recover well, but poorly managed or repeated concussions may increase the chance of:

  • Persistent headaches
  • Ongoing dizziness
  • Exercise intolerance
  • Neck dysfunction
  • Mood changes
  • Concentration difficulties
  • Reduced confidence returning to sport
  • Post-concussion syndrome in some cases

Early guidance can help reduce these risks.

How Remedial Massage & Myotherapy Can Help

Where clinically appropriate, massage or myotherapy may assist with:

  • Neck and shoulder tension
  • Postural discomfort
  • Associated muscular headaches
  • Recovery from protective guarding after injury



These services are typically supportive and integrated into the broader concussion plan.

Advanced Assessment & Return to Sport Technology

For selected athletes, we may use force plate testing to assess:

  • Balance and symmetry
  • Lower limb power
  • Movement control
  • Readiness for higher level training 

Why Choose Active Balance Physio & Wellness?

Experienced multidisciplinary team

Physio-led integrated care


Physio, massage, myo & rehab under one roof

Individualised treatment plans

Friendly, caring team focused on results


Convenient Adelaide location


After-hours appointments available

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I rest completely after concussion?

Brief relative rest is often recommended early on, but prolonged total rest is not always ideal. Guided recovery plans are usually more effective.



Can I play next week if I feel okay?

The most recent guidelines advise against it. Symptoms can fluctuate, and staged return-to-play protocols are important.


Can physio help concussion?

Yes. Physiotherapists can help manage dizziness, neck pain, balance issues, graded exercise tolerance and return-to-sport progression.


Do I need a scan?

Not always. Some concussions do not require imaging, but urgent medical review may be necessary depending on symptoms and mechanism of injury.

When Should I Seek Further Medical Advice?

Seek urgent medical care immediately if symptoms include:



  • Repeated vomiting
  • Increasing drowsiness
  • Severe worsening headache
  • Seizure
  • Weakness or numbness
  • Confusion worsening
  • Slurred speech
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Behavioural change
  • Neck trauma concerns

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✅Experienced Team

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Ready to Recover Properly After Concussion?

Book with our team today for expert assessment, tailored rehab and safe return-to-play guidance.