Children of all ages can experience concussions, even during everyday play. Knowing what to look for and how to support recovery can help your child heal safely and confidently.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild injury to the brain that can occur when a child hits their head or experiences a sudden movement that causes the brain to shift inside the skull. While concussions often happen after a direct hit to the head, they can also occur during falls, car accidents, or sports activities when the body stops or changes direction quickly.
Common Concussion Symptoms in Children
Concussion symptoms can vary from child to child and may appear immediately or hours later. Some common signs include:
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance difficulties
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Changes in sleep (sleeping more or less than usual)
- Difficulty concentrating or keeping up at school
- Increased irritability or emotional changes
For babies and toddlers, watch for:
- Decreased interest in play
- Eating less than usual
- Changes in bathroom habits
- Increased crying, frustration, or clinginess
What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion
If you think your child may have a concussion, seek medical care as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can evaluate your child and determine the next steps for care. While imaging tests may be used in some cases, many concussions do not require them.
Early medical guidance helps protect your child’s brain and supports a safer recovery.
Supporting Recovery at Home
Once your child returns home, the brain needs time to rest and heal. The first 24–48 hours play a critical role in recovery.
During this time:
- Limit screen use (TVs, phones, tablets)
- Avoid physical activity
- Encourage quiet, low-stimulation activities
- Allow rest and sleep as needed
If symptoms increase, reduce stimulation further and consult your child’s provider.
Returning to School and Activities
After the initial rest period, your child can gradually return to daily activities based on how they feel. Recovery should always move at your child’s pace.
Some children may need:
- Shortened school days
- Extra breaks
- Reduced homework or screen time
Sports and active play should only resume with medical guidance. If symptoms return, activity levels should decrease.
When Symptoms Last Longer Than Expected
Most children begin to feel better within one to three months, but every child heals differently. If symptoms persist, such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, or discomfort with movement, physical therapy may HELP!
How Physical Therapy Supports Concussion Recovery
Physical therapy plays an important role in concussion recovery, especially when symptoms linger. A physical therapist evaluates how your child moves, balances, and responds to motion. This may include checking posture, eye movements, walking patterns, and coordination.
Based on these findings, the therapist creates a personalized plan that supports safe healing.
Physical therapy can help by:
- Improving balance and coordination
- Reducing dizziness and motion sensitivity
- Supporting safe return to daily movement and sports
- Building confidence during recovery
Therapists guide children through a gradual return-to-activity process, adjusting the plan if symptoms reappear.
Education and Ongoing Support
Physical therapists also teach families how to manage symptoms at home, recognize signs of overexertion, and understand when rest or activity is appropriate. They often collaborate with doctors and schools to support a safe return to learning and play.
When Is Physical Therapy Complete?
Your child may finish physical therapy when they:
- Experience no symptoms during rest or activity
- Participate fully in school, play, and sports
- No longer need accommodations or restrictions
With the right care, patience, and support, most children fully recover and return to the activities they enjoy.
How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?
At CTC, we help children recover from concussions through personalized physical therapy programs designed to restore balance, coordination, and confidence. Our licensed therapists support children throughout recovery and guide families every step of the way.
If you have concerns about your child’s recovery or ongoing symptoms after a concussion, we’re here to help!
👉 Visit our website to learn more or schedule an evaluation today.