Return to sport after concussion
Returning too early risks second impact and longer recovery. We use exertion testing, symptom thresholds, and sport-specific stages so you re-enter play when it is truly safe.
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Written & reviewed by
Director & Senior Physiotherapist · BSc Physiotherapy, Curtin University · Complete Concussions certified
Why graduated return matters
A second concussion before full recovery can have serious consequences. Clubs, schools, and parents need objective criteria, not gut feel. Our return to sport process follows internationally recognised staged protocols with clear exit criteria at each level.
Baseline testing from Complete Concussions helps compare cognition and balance to your pre-injury norms where available. Individual in-clinic baseline testing is $79. Team baseline days and club packages are scoped case by case.
Stages of return to play
After initial assessment and symptom stabilisation, we introduce sub-symptom aerobic exercise (often Buffalo treadmill or bike testing), then progressive sport-specific drills, non-contact training, contact, and full competition clearance.
Each stage requires minimal symptoms and medical sign-off. We communicate with coaches and parents when you want us to.
Symptom-free does not mean cleared. Return is a process, not a calendar. Read our guide to the 6 stages of concussion recovery and early rehab vs rest for how we structure progression.
Book clearance testing
Book online or phone 0401 498 498. Bring your sport schedule, prior baseline results if you have them, and club medical requirements.
Fees
Return-to-sport testing is billed as physiotherapy consultations and test sessions. Initial assessment $139, follow-ups $115. We quote before multi-stage testing blocks.
Sideline emergencies
Acute on-field head injuries with red flags need emergency care first. We manage recovery and clearance after medical stability.
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
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.
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.
No Two Concussions Are the Same – Neither Should the Recovery Be
Your teammate was back in a week. You are still foggy. Different concussions need different plans — here is how we build yours.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
When can I return to contact sport?
Only after passing staged exertion and sport-specific progressions without symptom flare. That is typically no earlier than the protocol minimum windows, and often longer depending on your response.
Do you offer baseline testing?
Yes. Individual in-clinic baseline testing is $79. Baselines are valuable before season where possible, and essential for informed return decisions after injury. Contact us about team baseline days.
Can you provide documentation for my club?
Yes. We provide written clearance aligned with your club's requirements when you meet protocol criteria.
What if symptoms return during return to sport?
We step back a stage, reassess contributors, and adjust rehab. Rushing forward increases risk.