Concussion in Kids: What Parents Need to Know About Recovery and Prevention

Here’s what every parent should know about concussions, how to recognize the symptoms, and how physiotherapy can help in recovery.

Common Causes of Concussions in Kids

Concussions can happen anytime a child experiences a blow to the head or body. While contact sports like football, hockey, and soccer are common causes, recreational activities such as bike riding, skateboarding, or even climbing trees can lead to a concussion.

Children under the age of 4 and teenagers are most at risk. Younger kids are more likely to sustain a concussion due to falls, while teens may engage in risky behaviors that increase the chances of injury.

Recognizing Concussion Symptoms

It’s important for parents to know the signs of a concussion, which may not always be obvious right after the injury. Common symptoms include:

Dizziness and balance issues

Headaches or pressure in the head

Nausea or vomiting

Mood changes, irritability, or feeling "off"

Sluggishness or difficulty concentrating

Sleep disturbances, such as sleeping too much or not enough

Some children may not show symptoms immediately, so it’s essential to monitor them for 24-48 hours after the injury. If you notice any of the more severe symptoms, such as confusion, weakness, or an inability to wake up, seek immediate medical attention.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment

When a concussion is suspected, it’s important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. Doctors often use tools like the SCAT5 (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool) to evaluate the severity of the injury. Concussion treatment Mississauga includes assessments and monitoring to ensure that children are not returning to normal activities too soon.

While the majority of concussions heal within a few weeks, some children experience lingering symptoms. This is why proper follow-up and treatment are essential. Physiotherapy can play a key role in speeding up recovery and preventing long-term complications.

How Physiotherapy Helps in Concussion Recovery

Physiotherapists are trained to help with the rehabilitation process after a concussion. Treatment typically involves a combination of exercises and manual therapies designed to help restore balance, strength, and cognitive function.

For children, physiotherapy can help:

Improve balance and coordination, which is often affected after a concussion.

Reduce headaches and neck pain, which can sometimes occur after a blow to the head.

Support cognitive recovery by incorporating activities that improve concentration and memory.

Physiotherapy clinics Mississauga offer specialized concussion recovery programs that are tailored to your child’s age, severity of injury, and specific needs. These treatments are designed to support children at various stages of recovery, from initial rest to gradual return to normal activities.

Returning to Normal Activities

One of the biggest concerns for both parents and children after a concussion is how soon they can return to school, sports, and other regular activities. The general guideline is to allow the brain to rest in the initial 48-72 hours post-injury. After that, a gradual return to normal activities is encouraged.

Children don’t need to be completely symptom-free to return to school but should be able to handle light activities before jumping back into demanding tasks. If your child participates in sports, the return should be monitored closely to avoid further injury. Working with a concussion clinic Mississauga ensures that your child gets the right treatment and guidance on when it’s safe to resume full physical activity.

Preventing Future Concussions

While not all concussions can be prevented, there are steps parents can take to reduce the risk. Wearing helmets during activities like biking, skateboarding, and sports is one of the most effective ways to minimize the risk of severe brain injury. Proper coaching on safe playing techniques and encouraging kids to report any head injury immediately can also help reduce long-term risks.

Education is key—make sure your child understands the importance of reporting any symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem. And remember, no child should return to play after a head injury without being properly assessed by a healthcare professional.

Final Words

Concussions in children are serious but treatable with the right care and attention. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in helping kids recover fully, especially in reducing symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and cognitive issues. If your child has sustained a concussion, seek professional treatment early. Physiotherapy clinics Mississauga are equipped to provide expert concussion care, including rehabilitation to ensure your child returns to their normal activities as safely and quickly as possible.

By staying informed and working with the right healthcare providers, you can help your child recover fully and prevent future concussions.