What to Expect in Your First Two Clinical Visits After a Concussion

If you’ve recently had a concussion, those first steps toward recovery can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’re dealing with headaches, dizziness, or that fuzzy feeling that makes even basic tasks hard to manage. You know you need help, but where do you start?  

Let’s break down what your first two clinical visits *should* look like ~ because early intervention isn’t just important... it can shape your entire recovery journey.  

Visit 1: Laying the Foundation  

The first visit with your clinician is all about education. Forget cookie-cutter advice like “just rest” or “don’t worry, it’ll pass.” This is the time to really understand what’s happening in your brain and body.  

Think of it as a roadmap:  

- What is a concussion, really?  

- Why do you feel the way you do?  

- What steps can you take in the next 48 hours to reduce symptoms and promote healing?  

Your clinician should dive into these questions with you, ensuring you leave feeling empowered, not confused. This session should also involve discussions about movement. Yes, movement! While resting immediately after a concussion is critical, staying completely still for days can actually slow recovery. Gentle, guided movement tailored to your symptoms can help you feel better faster.  

Visit 2: Screening and Strategy  

By the second visit, your clinician will take a deeper dive into what’s happening across the various systems of your body. This isn’t just about the brain ~ it’s about how your vestibular (balance), visual, and autonomic nervous systems are functioning post-concussion.  

This comprehensive screen helps identify:  

- Why that spinning sensation kicks in when you turn your head too fast.  

- What’s behind the overwhelming fatigue after a trip to the grocery store.  

- How your heart rate and blood pressure respond to basic activities.  

Armed with this information, you and your clinician can create a plan tailored to *your* needs. This might involve specific exercises, gradual exposure to activities, or strategies for managing flares.  

Ongoing Support is Non-Negotiable  

Concussion recovery isn’t a straight line, and no two journeys look the same. That’s why ongoing support and guidance from your clinician are key. Your first two visits should set the tone for a partnership in recovery ~ one where you feel heard, understood, and equipped with tools to move forward.  

Concussion Recovery is a Team Sport

Seeking help for a concussion shouldn’t leave you frustrated or in the dark. Your clinician is there to provide clarity, address concerns, and set you up for success. Recovery is possible... and it starts with the right care from the very beginning. 

Looking for more insights into your recovery journey? Tune in to Episode 14 of the Concussion Nerds Podcast for an in-depth guide to what you can expect in those crucial first two appointments.