What is a concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull, resulting in temporary disruption of normal brain function. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbance, mood changes, and light or noise sensitivity. Most concussions resolve within 1–4 weeks, but a proportion result in prolonged post-concussion syndrome.

What is the recommended management for concussion?

Initial rest (24–48 hours) followed by graduated return to activity is current best practice. Both cognitive and physical rest beyond the initial period are no longer recommended — gradual reintroduction of activity under guidance is more effective. Any return to contact sport or activities with collision risk should follow a structured, supervised protocol supervised by a qualified practitioner.

Can complementary therapies support concussion recovery?

Acupuncture, osteopathy, and physiotherapy are used clinically for post-concussion headache, vestibular symptoms, and cervical involvement following head trauma. Nutritional approaches — particularly omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory nutrition — have theoretical and emerging clinical support for brain recovery. Mind-body approaches are helpful for the anxiety and sleep disruption that frequently accompany post-concussion syndrome.

When is post-concussion syndrome a concern?

Symptoms persisting beyond four weeks warrant reassessment. Worsening rather than improving symptoms at any stage, new neurological symptoms (significant cognitive decline, vision changes, limb weakness), or any loss of consciousness or confusion that was not immediately assessed should all prompt medical review.

Neurologicalmoderate Risk

Concussion

Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury from a blow to the head causing temporary neurological disruption. Comprehensive recovery involves physical and cognitive rest, progressive return-to-activity protocols, nutrit

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Reviewed by Dr. Ava Gardner · Integrative Medicine Researcher26 March 2026Research-supported

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Headache,dizziness,confusion,memory issues,light sensitivity

What is Concussion?

A mild traumatic brain injury causing temporary neurological disruption, commonly from sport or accidents.

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Related Conditions

Migraine

Brain Fog

Tension Type Headache

Tinnitus

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