Post-Concussion Recovery in Whistler
Whether you're recovering from a ski crash, bike fall, or head injury at work or sport—concussion symptoms can linger long after the initial impact.
At Mend Health Co, we take a nervous-system-first approach—combining acupuncture and gentle manual therapy to help calm your system, restore function, and support a more complete recovery.
Is This You?
Headaches, dizziness, or brain fog after a fall or impact
Sensitivity to light, sound, or movement
Neck tension or eye strain that won’t resolve
Trouble concentrating, sleeping, or feeling “like yourself”
A sense that something’s still off—even after rest
If any of that sounds familiar, we should talk.
Why Concussion Symptoms Linger
A concussion isn’t just a head injury—it’s a brain and nervous system disruption. In many cases, blood flow, vestibular balance, neck tension, and nervous system regulation all play a role in your symptoms. That’s why standard rest isn’t always enough.
Even minor concussions can cause major disruptions to your body's normal regulation. And when it’s not addressed systemically, symptoms can drag on for weeks, months—or even years.
Common Causes We See in Clinic
Movement & Systemic Contributors
Cervical (neck) tension limiting blood flow and nerve signaling
Subtle visual or vestibular dysfunction affecting balance and focus
Impaired breathing mechanics and vagal tone
Nervous system dysregulation → fight-or-flight dominance
Postural changes from bracing or guarding patterns
Lifestyle & Recovery Factors
Returning to work or screens too soon
Sleep disruptions and poor nervous system recovery
Previous concussions or head/neck trauma
High physical or mental stress with limited downtime
Lack of coordinated care between providers
How We Assess Concussion Recovery
We don’t just chase symptoms—we assess how your entire system is functioning. Your first visit includes a full health history, with special attention to sleep, stress, digestion, hormonal cycles, and nervous system load—because concussions don’t just affect the head, they ripple through your whole body.
Cervical spine assessment – mobility, tension, and joint function
Neurological screen – balance, coordination, and visual tracking
Palpation – identifying fascial restrictions and trigger points
Breathwork screen – evaluating vagal tone and breathing patterns
Symptom check-in – light sensitivity, headaches, sleep, fatigue, etc.
We also encourage collaboration with local physiotherapists and concussion specialists for baseline concussion testing, vestibular rehab, or further neurological support.
How Our Integrative Approach Helps
After a concussion, your nervous system often stays stuck in fight-or-flight mode—which means your usual go-to treatments may not work the same way.
Instead of jumping into aggressive dry needling or motor point work, we take a nervous-system-first approach. Early on, the focus is on calming the system, improving cerebral blood flow, and reducing tension—without overstimulating your body.
Here’s what your session might include:
Electroacupuncture – Gentle stimulation along the spine to boost blood flow to the head, neck and shoulders and regulate the nervous system.
Distal Acupuncture – Targets the nervous system through calm, regulatory points away from the head and neck.
Craniosacral Therapy – Light touch to unwind tension through the skull, spine, and sacrum—especially helpful for dizziness or pressure.
Manual Therapy, Gua Sha, or Cupping – Used selectively to support tissue glide and relieve neck/upper back tension.
Motor Point Acupuncture or Dry Needling – Introduced gradually when your system is ready for more active input.
We meet your body where it’s at—so you can recover safely, fully, and at a pace that actually works.
What a Session Looks Like
Initial Assessment + Treatment (~60 min)
If your new around here, this ones for you. History, assessment, targeted treatment, and plan design.
Follow-Up Acupuncture – Standard (~40 min)
Focused progress session. Re-test key movement(s), treat what changed, reinforce activation. Ideal for ongoing care.
Follow-Up Acupuncture – Extended (~60 min)
Same focused approach plus extra hands-on time (manual therapy, guasha, cupping, crainiosacral therapy) when you need more regulation time.
Recommended Visit Frequency
Concussion care is most effective with consistent follow-up. A typical recovery plan may look like:
Reset Phase: 2x/week for 2–3 weeks → reduce symptoms + restore function
Recover Phase: 1x/week for 4–6 weeks → support nervous system + rebuild resilience
Maintain Phase: Every 4–6 weeks as needed → for long-term cognitive and physical support
Progress moves faster when visits are closer together early on. This can vary based on your injury, timeline, and activity demands.
5 At Home Tips for Post-Concussion Recovery
Simple movements you can use between sessions to improve posture, support muscle balance, and reduce tension:
1. 90/90 Breathing (Vagal Tone Reset)
Lie on your back with feet on a chair or couch—hips and knees at 90°. Lightly press down through your heels, exhale slowly through pursed lips, and breathe into the lower ribs.
→ This calms the nervous system, promotes vagal tone, and helps decompress the spine.
2. Screen Breaks (Reduce Visual Overload)
Use blue-light filters, lower screen brightness, and take frequent breaks from screens—especially early in recovery.
→ Even small changes can reduce headaches, visual strain, and nervous system fatigue.
3. Neck Mobility + Stability Drills
Gentle chin tucks, slow rotations, and deep neck flexor work can improve blood flow and reduce protective tension.
→ These support cerebral perfusion and help restore neck function without overload.
4. Daily Light Movement (System Regulation)
Short, gentle walks or light cardio (as tolerated) support circulation, sleep, and overall nervous system regulation.
→ Aim for consistency over intensity. Let movement become medicine.
5. Sleep Hygiene (Your Most Powerful Recovery Tool)
Keep your room cool and dark, avoid screens 1–2 hours before bed, and aim for a regular sleep-wake rhythm.
→ Deep, consistent sleep is one of the most important tools for brain recovery.
!! When Acupuncture Isn’t the First Step
Please seek medical attention first if you notice:
Loss of consciousness
Persistent vomiting or nausea
Slurred speech or confusion
Worsening headache
Vision changes or balance issues
Once cleared, we’re here to support your recovery.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. If you’re experiencing concerning symptoms or a medical emergency, please seek appropriate medical attention.
Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?
If your body still feels “off” after a concussion, you’re not alone. We’ll meet your nervous system where it’s at, reduce lingering symptoms, and help you recover fully.
Serving Whistler, Pemberton & the Sea to Sky Corridor.