Concussion Assessment and Treatment
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head, neck, and/or body, resulting in the brain moving rapidly back and forth within the skull. This causes a stretching and shearing of the brain cells.
A concussion is a temporary functional injury. Patients with concussion can present with a wide range of signs and symptoms that can evolve over time.
Although most signs and symptoms resolve within 7-14 days, full recovery isn’t achieved until 3-4 weeks. Up to 30-40% of patients experience persistent symptoms after 4 weeks, with 25% of patients not returning to work within 6 months.
The research shows that early detection and intervention, especially within the first week of injury, is the key to full recovery and preventing post-concussion syndrome. This short video explains more about concussion.
What we offer:
- Baseline testing for individuals and/or teams
- Baseline testing is a series of functional and cognitive tests done prior to sustaining a concussion. The purpose of baseline testing is to establish how someone functions normally and assist in safe return to school, work, and sport decisions.
- At Fiskco, we offer baseline testing for teams as well as individuals.
- To book an appointment for baseline testing, please call the clinic on 604-946-3713.
- Assessment and treatment of acute concussion and post-concussion syndrome
Concussion assessment includes
- neurological exam,
- cervical spine exam,
- cognitive testing,
- balance testing, and
- vestibulo-oculomotor assessment.
We offer comprehensive education on concussion recovery, sleep, nutrition, supplementation and return to school, work and sport protocols.
Depending on how a patient presents, treatment can include cervical spine manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue therapy, cupping therapy, and prescribed exercises.
About Dr. Kristina Cukic:
Having sustained a number of concussions while playing competitive ice hockey and soccer, Dr. Cukic has first-hand experience with concussive injury and the struggles one can face throughout their recovery.
