Concussion Consequences: What every worker, parent and athlete should know.

Concussions are far more common than most people realise, and they don’t only affect professional athletes. Whether your child has a head knock playing footy at Jelbart Park, you’ve had a fall at work, or you’ve experienced a car accident on the Hume, concussions can have short, and long‑term effects on the way the brain and nervous system function. At House of Chiropractic Albury, our approach is grounded in modern neurological assessment, paediatric-specific protocols, and specific, gentle chiropractic care aimed at supporting the nervous system during recovery.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a direct or indirect force to the head, neck, or body. Even though the term “mild” is used, the effects can be significant, especially for children whose brains are still developing. Concussions can occur from:

• Sport (Aussie Rules, netball, soccer, rugby, basketball)

• Falls or playground accidents

• Motor vehicle collisions

• Workplace injuries

• Everyday incidents such as slipping on wet surfaces

In Australia, concussion rates have risen consistently over the last two decades, and children and adolescents represent a large portion of reported cases.

Why Concussions Matter for Children and Teens

Children are more vulnerable to the effects of concussion because their..

• Brains are still developing

• Necks are not as strong as adults

• Reaction times and balance systems are still maturing, and they may struggle to report or recognise symptoms.

This is why a neurological and paediatric‑focused assessment is essential.

Common Concussion Symptoms

Symptoms can appear immediately or gradually over the next 24–72 hours. Some athletes show no obvious signs at the time, which is why monitoring is crucial.

Possible symptoms include:

• Headaches

• Dizziness or balance issues

• Visual disturbances

• Difficulty concentrating

• Slowed thinking or “brain fog”

• Trouble with schoolwork

• Irritability or emotional changes

• Sleep disruptions

• Light or noise sensitivity

• Nausea or vomiting

Every child or adult is different, some recover quickly, while others experience symptoms for weeks or months.

What Is Post‑Concussion Syndrome (PCS)?

If symptoms last longer than 3 weeks, this may be known as post‑concussion syndrome. Children and adults with PCS may experience ongoing: fatigue, poor concentration, memory issues, mood changes, ongoing headaches or neck tension and sensory sensitivities. The sooner appropriate care and monitoring begin, the better the potential outcomes.

Neck + Neurological Involvement: Why We Assess the Whole System

Research shows that concussion and neck (cervical) involvement often occur together. Even when the head isn’t hit directly, the rapid acceleration‑deceleration of the neck can influence balance, eye tracking, headaches, reaction time, coordination and proprioception (body awareness). This helps explain why some people take longer to recover and why symptoms vary so widely.

Our Neurologically‑Focused Approach at House of Chiropractic Albury

Every concussion presentation begins with:

1. A comprehensive neurological + paediatric assessment

We assess:

• Balance and vestibular function

• Eye tracking

• Neck mobility and strength

• Reflexes (where appropriate)

• Sensory processing

• Neurological patterning

• Spinal alignment

• Your child’s functional baseline

This helps us determine what areas may be under stress and how the nervous system is adapting post-injury.

2. Gentle, age‑appropriate chiropractic care

Where clinically appropriate, gentle adjustments may help support healthy spinal and neurological function. Techniques are tailored specifically for infants, children, teens, and adults.

3. Recovery guidance

We provide guidance on:

• Rest vs. activity

• Gradual return to school

• Screen time considerations

• Safe return-to-sport timelines

• Vestibular or balance recommendations (if appropriate)

• Lifestyle support to help the nervous system recover

We always refer to other health professionals if required, including GPs, physiotherapists, or imaging services.

Why Early Assessment Matters

Delaying assessment may prolong recovery. Monitoring the nervous system early helps identify dysfunction before it becomes persistent. Whether the concussion happened yesterday or years ago, if symptoms were never completely resolved, the nervous system may still be compensating.

Book a Concussion or Paediatric Neurological Assessment

If you or your child has had a fall, head knock, or suspected concussion, even if it seemed minor, we’re here to help support your recovery safely and thoroughly. Book your consultation here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should my child rest after a concussion?

Yes, but current evidence suggests that complete rest for too long can delay recovery. A combination of initial rest followed by gradual, guided re‑introduction of activity is recommended.

2. How soon after a concussion should we seek assessment?

Ideally within 24–72 hours, or as soon as your child is well enough to attend. Even older concussions can be assessed.

3. How do I know if my child needs to go to the hospital?

Seek emergency care if there is:

• Worsening headache

• Repeated vomiting

• Increasing confusion

• Behaviour changes

• Seizure

• Difficulty waking

• Weakness or numbness

• A very young child who cannot be assessed reliably

When in doubt, call 000 or visit the Albury Emergency Department.

4. Can my child return to sport immediately?

Not usually. Returning too soon increases the risk of repeat concussion, which can have more serious consequences. Return to sport should follow a step-by-step process under professional guidance.

5. Is chiropractic care safe for children after a concussion?

Chiropractic care is tailored to each child and is gentle, age-appropriate, and always based on clinical assessment. If chiropractic care is not appropriate, we will advise you and help coordinate other care options.