When it comes to kids and concussions, the real danger lies in delayed treatment. You may think rest is all that’s needed, but proper physiotherapy can speed up recovery and prevent long-term symptoms.
Real Patient Story
Meet Ava, an 11-year-old who hit her head during soccer practice. After complaining of dizziness and nausea, she was diagnosed with a concussion. Her parents were overwhelmed—until they came to see our paediatric physiotherapist. With a tailored recovery plan and structured return-to-activity timeline, Ava was symptom-free within a week.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that affects how the brain functions. Contrary to popular belief, a concussion doesn’t require a direct head hit. Sudden jolts to the body can be just as damaging.
Signs of Concussion Symptoms in Kids:
- Headache or a pressure feeling in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Confusion or trouble concentrating
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Mood changes like irritability or sadness
Children may also become unusually emotional, cry more easily, or have difficulty sleeping.
4 Proven Ways to Fix Concussions in Kids
1. Prevention and Recognition
Helmets don’t prevent concussions—but strengthening neck muscles can reduce severity.
Other safety tips include:
- Wearing seatbelts and using proper car seats
- Installing stair and window guards
- Educating kids to avoid risky play
- Ensuring play surfaces are cushioned (like playground mulch or turf)
2. Immediate Rest
Resting is essential in the first 24-72 hours. This allows the brain to reduce inflammation and begin healing.
Physical Rest Means:
- No sports or physical play
- No screens or video games
- No homework or cognitive overload
- No roughhousing with siblings
But remember: complete bed rest is not recommended for more than 3 days. A gradual return to activity should follow.
3. Physiotherapy Assessment
If your child still shows symptoms after 3–5 days, consult a paediatric physiotherapist. A therapist will evaluate balance, coordination, neck mobility, and visual tracking. Based on the assessment, a recovery program is developed.
4. Active Recovery Plan
Your child’s physiotherapy plan may include:
- Balance training
- Visual exercises
- Neck mobility work
- Gradual return-to-play strategy
- Parent education and reassurance
Recovery Timeline
Most kids recover within 7–10 days with proper rest and support. But every child is different. The key is early recognition, rest, and structured guidance.
Call-to-Action
Worried about your child’s concussion? Book a FREE virtual consultation with one of our paediatric physiotherapists today. Or request our “Parent’s Guide to Concussion Recovery” PDF for tips, exercises, and expert advice you can trust.
FAQ Section
Q: What should I do after my child gets a concussion?
A: Remove them from activity immediately and let them rest. Monitor symptoms closely and consult a physiotherapist within 48–72 hours.
Q: How long do concussions last in kids?
A: With the right care, most kids recover in 7–10 days. If symptoms persist, physiotherapy can help speed up recovery and prevent long-term issues.
Q: Can physiotherapy help a baby with a concussion?
A: Yes, paediatric physiotherapy can provide gentle treatments and parent-guided interventions to help even very young children recover from head injuries.
