Exercise rehabilitation after concussion
Complete rest for weeks is outdated. We use symptom-limited exercise, often treadmill or bike testing, to find your threshold and rebuild fitness without setbacks.
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Written & reviewed by
Director & Senior Physiotherapist · BSc Physiotherapy, Curtin University · Complete Concussions certified
Why guided exercise beats prolonged rest
Concussion recovery needs load management, not zero activity. Controlled aerobic exercise improves blood flow, reduces deconditioning, and helps calibrate how much movement your brain tolerates. The key is staying below the symptom threshold that causes next-day flare.
Exercise rehabilitation at Heads Up uses protocols aligned with Complete Concussions, including Buffalo-style treadmill or bike testing where appropriate. We find your starting point and progress in measurable stages.
This service supports Post-Concussion Syndrome management, return to sport, and return to daily life. It is not just for elite athletes.
What exercise rehabilitation involves
After concussion assessment, we may introduce sub-symptom aerobic exercise, monitoring heart rate, symptoms, and recovery response. Sessions include education on pacing, sleep, and hydration alongside the physical programme.
You receive clear home targets: duration, intensity, and what to do if symptoms spike. We adjust each visit based on your diary, not guesswork.
Exercise rehab integrates with neck rehabilitation and vestibular rehabilitation when those systems limit progress. Read why active rehab replaced rest-only advice.
How to book and what to prepare
Book online or call 0401 498 498. Exertion testing sessions need comfortable exercise clothing and trainers.
- Recent symptom list and what triggers flare
- Current activity level and sport or work demands
- Heart rate monitor or sports watch if you use one
- Medications and relevant cardiac history
Fees and transparency
Concussion follow-up appointments are $115; initial assessment $139. Multi-stage exertion testing may require dedicated session time. We quote before booking extended testing blocks. Private health rebates apply for in-clinic physiotherapy where eligible.
When exercise testing is not appropriate yet
Acute red flags, unstable medical conditions, or uncontrolled vestibular crisis need stabilisation first. We defer formal exertion testing until baseline assessment shows it is safe.
Cardiac symptoms during exercise require medical review before continuing a graded programme.
No referral required
Fees
Initial appointment
$139
In-person or telehealth
Follow-up appointment
$115
In-person or telehealth
Private health insurance rebates available on in-person appointments (claimed on the spot). Telehealth rebates via invoice to your insurer. Sport and club injury insurance may cover ongoing concussion care. Check your registration policy with your club.
Further reading
Related articles
Concussion Rehab Is In, Rest Is Out
Rest still matters after a head knock, but weeks of doing nothing is not best practice. Here is how guided concussion rehab compares to rest alone.
The 6 Stages of Concussion Recovery (What Happens at Each Step)
Recovery is a sequence, not a guessing game. Here are the six stages we use to get you back to school, work, and sport safely after concussion.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
When can I start exercising after a concussion?
Often within the first week if symptoms are stable and red flags are absent, but intensity must stay sub-symptom. We set your individual starting point at assessment.
What is Buffalo treadmill testing?
A graded exertion protocol used to find the heart rate or workload where symptoms increase. It guides safe aerobic progression and return-to-sport decisions.
Will exercise make my concussion worse?
Exercise above your symptom threshold can flare symptoms. Sub-symptom training is designed to build tolerance without setback. We monitor response each visit.
Is this only for athletes?
No. Anyone recovering from concussion who needs to return to work, parenting, or general fitness benefits from structured exercise rehabilitation.
Where is the clinic?
8/531 Hay St, Subiaco WA 6008. Exertion testing is performed in-clinic.