Concussions can occur in any sport, from hockey to cycling, and early recognition is vital for safe recovery. This guide explains the main signs to watch for, based on BC’s concussion care guidelines, and shows how Movewell Clinic’s mobile physiotherapy service supports athletes and active individuals throughout Vancouver.
Key Signs of a Concussion
- Physical: headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, blurred or double vision, balance problems, light or noise sensitivity, fatigue.
- Cognitive: confusion, memory gaps, trouble focusing, slowed reactions.
- Emotional: irritability, mood swings, tearfulness.
- Sleep-related: trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much.
- No loss of consciousness needed: Only about 10% of concussions involve fainting.
- Delayed symptoms: Some signs appear hours or days later.
Why Choose Movewell Clinic for Sports Injuries in Vancouver?
- Mobile physiotherapy anywhere in Vancouver so you can recover in your home, workplace, or training facility.
- Years of sports concussion rehab experience.
- Evidence-based protocols aligned with BC’s Concussion/mTBI Guidelines (2025).
- Unique services including on-site vestibular and balance screening, BC-PSI symptom tracking.
How to Recognize and Respond to a Suspected Concussion
- Watch for symptoms immediately and up to 72 hours later.
- Remove the person from sport or physical activity.
- Seek assessment within 72 hours. Mobile physiotherapy makes this faster and more accessible.
- Begin 24–48 hours of relative rest, then light activity if symptoms allow.
- Return to sport or work gradually with professional supervision.
Local Context and Stats
- BC records more than 6,000 hospitalizations and 14,500 ER visits each year for concussion.
- Many injuries involve youth in organized sports such as hockey, lacrosse, and horseback riding.
- Early active rehab reduces the risk of long-term symptoms.
FAQs
Can concussion symptoms appear days after injury?
Yes, they can appear up to 72 hours later. Monitor closely and seek care source.
What’s the recovery process?
Rest for 24-48 hours, then gradually return to physical and cognitive activity under supervision source.
Is imaging needed?
Only if severe or persistent symptoms occur source.
How common are persistent symptoms?
Between 10% and 20% last beyond a month, with up to 35% persisting for 3–6 months source.
What specialized care is available in Vancouver?
Movewell Clinic offers mobile vestibular screening, BC-PSI tracking, and guided rehabilitation source.
Practical Details for Movewell Clinic
- Service Model: 100% mobile physiotherapy, bringing concussion and sports injury rehab directly to you.
- Service Area: All Vancouver neighbourhoods, including Kitsilano, Downtown, Mount Pleasant, West End, and East Vancouver.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 7 pm.
- Accessibility: All necessary rehab equipment is brought to your location, ideal for limited mobility.
Movewell Clinic delivers expert, compassionate mobile concussion care across Vancouver. Our evidence-based approach ensures safe, confident recovery for athletes, professionals, and older adults. You can book your appointment by emailing us at info@movewellclinic.ca or by visiting our website.
