Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most — about concussion care, insurance, referrals, and what to expect.
Getting started
No. Physiotherapists in Ontario are primary healthcare providers. You can book a concussion assessment directly — no doctor's referral is required. If we identify anything outside physiotherapy scope during your assessment, we'll guide you toward the appropriate professional.
You can come in as early as the first few days after injury. Current evidence supports early assessment and guided activity over prolonged complete rest. The sooner we identify which systems are affected, the sooner we can begin targeted treatment.
Bring any relevant medical reports (ER discharge notes, imaging results, etc.), a list of current medications, and your insurance information. If you had baseline testing done (e.g., for sport), bring those results as well.
Your first visit is typically 45 to 60 minutes. This includes a thorough history, vestibular and balance testing, cervical spine evaluation, oculomotor assessment, and discussion of your treatment plan.
Cost and insurance
Yes. Our services are billed as physiotherapy and are covered under most extended health insurance plans. We also offer direct billing to many insurers, so you may not need to pay out of pocket. Check with your plan for your specific coverage details.
Physiotherapy is not covered by OHIP for most adults. However, OHIP does cover physiotherapy for individuals under 20, over 65, or on Ontario Works / ODSP. For most working-age adults, coverage comes through extended health benefits.
If your concussion resulted from a motor vehicle accident, your treatment may be covered through your auto insurance. We can help you navigate the process and direct bill to your auto insurer in most cases.
We see patients with and without insurance. Please contact us for current self-pay rates. We're happy to discuss your options.
Treatment and recovery
Most concussions resolve within 2 to 4 weeks with proper management. However, 15–30% of patients experience symptoms lasting beyond this window. With targeted physiotherapy, even patients with persistent symptoms typically see meaningful improvement. The timeline depends on which symptoms are present and how long they've been untreated.
This varies significantly by patient. Some conditions like BPPV can resolve in one to two sessions. More complex presentations may require several weeks of treatment. After your initial assessment, we'll give you a realistic estimate based on your specific situation.
We provide hands-on assessment and active treatment of concussion symptoms within physiotherapy scope — including vestibular rehabilitation, cervical spine treatment, oculomotor retraining, and graded return-to-activity programs. A neurologist provides medical diagnosis and may order imaging or prescribe medication. Both have a role. If we believe a neurology referral is appropriate, we'll let you know.
Yes. Duration of symptoms does not determine whether you can improve. Many of our patients come to us weeks or months after their injury and still see significant progress. Persistent symptoms almost always have identifiable, treatable contributing factors.
Some patients experience a mild, temporary increase in symptoms after assessment or early treatment sessions — this is normal and expected when we challenge systems that have been underactive. We manage the intensity carefully, and this response typically diminishes quickly as your systems recalibrate.
When to seek emergency care
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience: worsening or severe headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, loss of consciousness, significant confusion or disorientation, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or clear fluid from the nose or ears. These may indicate a more serious injury requiring urgent evaluation. When in doubt, go to the ER.
Ready to start your recovery?
Don't wait for symptoms to resolve on their own. Early, expert care makes a measurable difference in concussion recovery.