What is a Sports Concussion?
A sports concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, neck or body that results in rapid movement of the brain inside the skull. Concussions can occur in any sport, from rugby and football to cycling, horse riding, skiing and athletics.
Symptoms do not always appear immediately and can develop over the hours or days following the injury. While most people recover within a few weeks, some continue to experience ongoing symptoms that affect work, education, sport and daily life.
Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, balance problems, neck pain, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, fatigue, sensitivity to light or noise and reduced exercise tolerance.
Early assessment by a clinician experienced in concussion management is essential to ensure a safe recovery and reduce the risk of prolonged symptoms.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Concussion is far more than simply "rest until you feel better." Modern concussion management involves a structured rehabilitation programme based on your symptoms, clinical findings and recovery goals.
At Greenacre Physio, your assessment may include:
- Comprehensive concussion assessment
- Balance and vestibular assessment
- Eye movement and visual function assessment
- Cervical spine (neck) assessment
- Exercise tolerance testing
- Cognitive and functional screening
- Return to work, education and sport planning
Treatment may include:
- Vestibular rehabilitation
- Cervical spine rehabilitation
- Balance and coordination training
- Graded aerobic exercise programmes
- Vision and eye movement rehabilitation
- Symptom management education
- Graduated return to sport guidance
- Return to work and education advice
- Personalised rehabilitation programmes
Every rehabilitation plan is tailored to your symptoms and adjusted as you recover.
Why Choose Greenacre Physio?
Concussion management is one of Greenacre Physio's specialist services. Our clinicians have extensive experience working within specialist NHS concussion services, elite sport and private practice.
Our Clinical Director has worked within the National Sports Concussion Service at Cambridge University Hospitals and has extensive experience managing concussion in athletes of all levels. We have also provided concussion care within Team GB American Football, UK Athletics, and other elite sporting environments.
Whether your concussion occurred during competitive sport, recreational activity or exercise, we provide evidence-based assessment and rehabilitation using the latest international concussion guidelines.
Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through virtual consultations where appropriate.
What to Expect
Your first appointment will involve a detailed discussion about your injury, symptoms, medical history and sporting goals. We will perform a comprehensive assessment of your balance, vestibular system, eye movements, neck, exercise tolerance and neurological function.
Following your assessment, we will explain your diagnosis, identify the systems contributing to your symptoms and develop a personalised rehabilitation programme. Your recovery will be monitored closely, with rehabilitation progressing safely as your symptoms improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from a sports concussion?
Most people recover within 2–4 weeks, although recovery varies depending on the individual and the severity of the injury. Some people experience symptoms for longer and benefit from specialist concussion rehabilitation.
Should I completely rest after a concussion?
Current evidence recommends 24–48 hours of relative rest, followed by a gradual return to normal daily activities and carefully monitored exercise. Prolonged complete rest is no longer recommended for most people, as it may delay recovery.
When can I return to sport?
You should only return to sport once your symptoms have resolved, you have successfully progressed through a graduated return-to-sport programme and have been medically cleared where appropriate. Returning too early increases the risk of further injury.
Do I need brain imaging?
Most concussions do not require a CT or MRI scan. Imaging is usually reserved for situations where there are signs of a more serious brain injury. During your assessment, we will identify any red flags that require urgent medical attention.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio. We also accept referrals from GPs, sports physicians, neurologists, consultants, sports clubs and other healthcare professionals.
Book an Appointment
If you have sustained a sports concussion or are experiencing ongoing symptoms following a head injury, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics or arrange a virtual consultation with one of our experienced concussion physiotherapists.
Early assessment and appropriate rehabilitation can make a significant difference to your recovery and help you return to sport safely and confidently.
Common Symptoms We Treat
- Headaches
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Balance problems
- Neck pain
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Exercise intolerance
- Delayed recovery following concussion
- Difficulty returning to sport, work or education
Why Choose Greenacre Physio for Sports Concussion?
Concussion is one of our core specialist services. At Greenacre Physio, we combine expertise from specialist NHS concussion clinics with experience working in elite sport to provide comprehensive, evidence-based concussion care.
Our Clinical Director has worked within the National Sports Concussion Service at Cambridge University Hospitals, alongside roles with UK Athletics, Team GB American Football and other high-performance environments. This unique combination of NHS and elite sports experience allows us to assess every aspect of concussion recovery, from vestibular and visual dysfunction to neck pain, exercise tolerance and return-to-play decision-making.
Whether you're a professional athlete, club player or recreational sports participant, our goal is to help you recover fully, reduce the risk of persistent symptoms and support a safe, confident return to sport and everyday life.