Condition guide

Concussion: Medical Advice and Physiotherapy

Medical assessment comes first after a head injury. Ask us whether physiotherapy for associated neck or movement symptoms is appropriate once your medical team has assessed you.

A concussion is a brain injury and needs medical advice. Ongoing dizziness, balance problems, or return-to-sport decisions may require a specialist service. Contact us to discuss the scope of care we can provide for associated musculoskeletal symptoms; follow your medical team’s guidance.

This guide is general information and does not replace a clinical assessment.

When to get urgent help

Call 999 after a head injury if the person cannot stay awake, has a seizure, new weakness, or problems speaking, walking or understanding. For vomiting, dizziness or other worrying symptoms, contact NHS 111. Follow the NHS guidance and medical team’s advice before considering physiotherapy.

NHS: Head injury and concussion

Common Symptoms

Persistent dizziness, headache, or neck pain after concussion

Exercise intolerance or symptom flare with activity

Balance issues or visual-motion sensitivity

Difficulty returning to normal training or work routine

Seek Prompt Medical Advice If You Have

Worsening severe headache or repeated vomiting

New confusion, drowsiness, or seizure

Weakness, speech changes, or neurological deterioration

Any red-flag change after head injury

If you are unsure, call NHS 111 or seek urgent medical care.

Assessment

Review of injury timeline and medical assessment status

Review of associated neck or movement symptoms where appropriate

Check of medical advice and restrictions before treatment

Advice on whether another service or further medical review is needed

Treatment

Treatment of associated musculoskeletal symptoms only where appropriate

Neck exercises where indicated by assessment and medical advice

Activity advice within the restrictions set by your medical team

Signposting for symptoms outside the agreed physiotherapy scope

Aftercare & self-management

If physiotherapy is appropriate after medical assessment, agree which exercises to do, how often to practise them and when to review your progress.

Use staged return-to-activity guidance

Avoid sudden spikes in cognitive or physical load

Monitor symptom response to progression steps

Seek medical review if symptoms worsen significantly

Plan your visitClinic, prices and insurance
Your clinic & directions
Newham clinic, Plaistow

Newham Leisure Centre, 281 Prince Regent Lane, Plaistow, London E13 8SD

Self-pay

£60 for a 30-minute physiotherapy appointment.

Prices & self-pay
Health insurance

Cover depends on your plan and chosen physiotherapist.

Insurance & cash-plan guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start physiotherapy immediately after concussion?+

Initial medical assessment is essential first. Physiotherapy is introduced when clinically appropriate.

How is return to sport managed?+

Follow your medical team’s return-to-sport advice and seek specialist guidance where needed. Contact us before booking to discuss whether we can support your particular rehabilitation needs.

Do you treat neck pain after concussion?+

Neck symptoms may be suitable for musculoskeletal physiotherapy after medical assessment. We first confirm your medical advice, precautions and the care you need.

Further reading

For public health information, self-care guidance and advice on when to seek medical help:

About your care at Nexus: meet our physiotherapists and read our clinical governance information.