Semi’s Concussion Program

SEMI’s Concussion Program uses the most up-to-date research to provide comprehensive assessments and evidence-based treatment. At SEMI, we are focused on getting our patients back to the activities they enjoy, in a safe and productive manner, after having sustained a concussion.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is an injury to the brain caused by an impact to the head or to the body that causes the head to jolt back and forth. The impact causes a disruption within the brain cells, presenting as an array of symptoms. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, headaches, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, blurred vision and difficulty with cognitive tasks. A concussion may or may not involve a loss of consciousness.

Symptoms typically dissipate within a few hours to a few days, however an energy deficit within the brain remains. This deficit can last up to 30 days or longer. During this time, the brain is extremely vulnerable to an additional injury. Further impact could result in serious brain damage or fatality.

Finding immediate concussion treatment is strongly recommended. Our clinics in Toronto and Thornhill provide complete physical therapy through our concussion program.

Therefore, the resolution of symptoms does not correlate with full brain recovery. It is extremely important that those with a suspected concussion are removed from all activity and are assessed and managed by a trainer concussion practitioner within 24 hours of impact.

Concussion Symptoms Include:

  • Headache/Pressure in Head
  • Nausea/Vomiting
  • Neck Pain/Stiffness
  • Blurred Vision
  • Dizziness/Balance Problems
  • Difficulty Remembering & Concentration
  • Altered Sleeping Pattern
  • Feeling Foggy/Slowed Down
  • Sensitivity to Light/Noise
  • Fatigue/Drowsiness
  • Feeling Emotional, Irritable, Nervous/Anxious

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call in to book an assessment immediately. Prompt concussion assessment and management is important to clear more serious pathologies and guide return to activities safely.

What is Second Impact Syndrome?

After sustaining a concussion, there is an energy deficit within the brain. Rest is important at this time to optimize brain recovery. During this time, the brain is extremely vulnerable to an additional impact. A second impact during this time can lead to prolonged recovery, serious brain injury or death.

Symptom resolution does NOT correlate with brain recovery. That being said, it is important that a trained concussion healthcare provider guide your return to play, to ensure your health and safety.

Baseline Testing

What is Baseline Testing?

Baseline testing is a series of evaluations, performed by a concussion practitioner, to evaluate brain function, of those who may be at risk of suffering a concussion.

A baseline gives the practitioner a point of reference of pre-season cognitive and physical function, allowing the practitioner to more accurately monitor recovery and determine when it is safe to return to sport.

Why is Baseline Testing Important?

Currently, there is no single test or imaging technique that can determine brain recovery. The most effective way to know if the brain has recovered is to compare brain function to the pre-concussed state. This comparison is done through baseline testing, which is completed prior to injury.

SEMI’s Comprehensive Baseline Testing Includes:

  • Detailed Medical History & Current Symptoms
  • Neurocognitive Assessment
    • SCAT3
    • ImPACT®
  • Balance Testing & Postural Stability
  • Reaction Time & Strength Testing

Group & Individual Baseline Testing Available!

SEMI’s concussion practitioners provide evidence-based treatment for acute or chronic concussion symptoms. Our multidimensional assessment ensures we are managing all possible contributing factors to ongoing concussion symptoms. A variety of rehabilitation strategies are utilized to rehabilitate brain recovery as quickly and safely as possible.

Concussion Rehabilitation Includes:

  • Physical Therapy for associated complaints (neck pain, headaches)
  • Balance, Coordination & Vestibular Rehabilitation
  • Physical exertion testing & exercise plans for return to sport
  • Visual coordination screening & rehabilitation
  • Guided safe return to sport, learning & working
  • Education on concussion pathophysiology & management rest, nutrition & sleep
  • Specialist referrals when warranted

Contact SEMI to schedule a sports medicine consultation with one of our highly qualified sports medicine doctors. SEMI is highly specialized in the sports medicine field, and has some of Toronto’s most esteemed sports medicine physicians on staff.

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