Concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, face or neck, or a force transmitted to the head from elsewhere in the body. It typically results in short-term changes in brain function rather than structural damage visible on routine imaging.
While most concussions resolve within 7–14 days in adults, a significant minority have symptoms that persist or worsen — and returning to sport too early carries real risk. Specialist-led assessment, graded return-to-sport protocols, and proactive management of persistent symptoms are all areas where a Sport and Exercise Physician plays a central role.
Frequently Asked Questions
A history of multiple concussions is an important consideration in ongoing sport participation and long-term brain health. Dr. West can provide individualised advice based on your injury history, symptoms and sporting goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Liam West will take a detailed history of the injury and your symptoms, and perform a comprehensive examination including cognitive, vestibular, cervical and oculomotor assessment. Structured symptom scales help track recovery objectively.
If you have sustained a head injury or are not recovering as expected, book an appointment with Dr. Liam West, our Specialist Sports and Exercise Physician at Melbourne CBD Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine Clinic. You can also learn more about our complete Sports Medicine service.
Book Now | Learn more about Sports Medicine
Dr Liam West is a Specialist Sport and Exercise Medicine (SEM) Physician and Head Doctor of Hawthorn Football Club. He brings extensive experience across AFL, Athletics (Track and Field) and Football (Soccer), with specialist expertise in bone, muscle, tendon and joint injuries. Liam served as Sports Doctor for the Australian Athletics Team at the 2018 & 2022 Commonwealth Games, and holds a Masters of Sports and Exercise Medicine and Fellowship of the Australasian College of Sport and Exercise Physicians.
Book with Dr. Liam West | Read Liam’s Full Biography
Adolescent Sports Injuries | Joint Injuries (Shoulder & Knee) | Bone Fractures | Exercise for Chronic Medical Conditions
Our team look forward to working with you to help achieve your goals
Most people with uncomplicated concussion do not need imaging. CT or MRI is reserved for cases where more serious injury — such as intracranial bleeding — is suspected.
Return to contact sport should only occur once you are completely symptom-free at rest and through a graded, supervised protocol. Returning too early significantly increases the risk of a further concussion.
Most people with uncomplicated concussion do not need imaging. CT or MRI is reserved for cases where more serious injury — such as intracranial bleeding — is suspected.
A history of multiple concussions is an important consideration in ongoing sport participation and long-term brain health. Dr. West can provide individualised advice based on your injury history, symptoms and sporting goals.
