Sports Concussion

Overview

Sports-related concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury that can happen during athletic activity. It often results from a blow to the head or a rapid change in momentum, such as a fall or collision. While most cases resolve with rest, some individuals develop persistent symptoms requiring specialist input.

At The New Foscote Hospital in Banbury, we offer private outpatient consultations and diagnostic services for adults dealing with symptoms after a concussion. Our multidisciplinary approach supports a confident and structured return to normal routines, including work, driving, and physical activity.

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Causes of Sports Concussion

Concussion can occur in any sport where sudden contact or impact is possible. Common causes include:

• Heading the ball or player collisions in football
• Tackles and scrums in rugby
• Falls from bikes or horses
• Strikes to the head in boxing or martial arts
• Accidents during skiing, skating or motorsport

Even a seemingly minor bump can result in symptoms due to the brain shifting within the skull.

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Common Symptoms

Symptoms of concussion may appear immediately or emerge hours after the incident. These can involve various systems of the body and mind:

Cognitive & Neurological

• Difficulty concentrating
• Short-term memory lapses
• Feeling mentally “foggy”
• Slower thinking or reaction time

Sensory & Physical

• Headache or head pressure
• Light or noise sensitivity
• Nausea, dizziness or blurred vision
• Balance problems

Emotional or Behavioural

• Irritability or mood changes
• Anxiety or low motivation
• Sleep disruption

While most cases resolve in 1–2 weeks, post-concussion symptoms may continue for longer and benefit from clinical assessment.

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Who Should Seek Assessment?

You may benefit from a private consultation at The New Foscote Hospital if:

• You’ve experienced a sports-related head injury and still feel “off”
• Your symptoms haven’t resolved after rest
• You need medical clearance to return to sport or work
• You’ve had multiple concussions and want specialist advice
• You’d like imaging to rule out other causes

We support individuals at any stage after concussion—from early symptom review to complex recovery planning.

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Our Services

At The New Foscote Hospital, your recovery is supported through:

Consultant Neurology Assessment

• Thorough review of your symptoms and history
• Advice on safe return to sport, work or driving
• Guidance on rest, pacing and gradual reintroduction of activity

MRI Brain Imaging

• Offered when needed to exclude structural injury
• Fast access with on-site facilities
• Particularly helpful for complex or prolonged cases

Referral to Physiotherapy or Vestibular Therapy

• Support for dizziness, balance problems or fatigue
• Advice on safe activity progression
• Tailored exercise and recovery programmes

Psychology and Cognitive Support

• Help with concentration, stress or low mood
• Strategies for returning to normal function
• Lifestyle advice and confidence rebuilding

This outpatient service is suited to those seeking personalised, evidence-based care in a private setting.

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What to Expect

Your care pathway may include:

1. Initial consultation with a neurologist or relevant specialist
2. Diagnostic imaging, if indicated
3. Tailored management plan, with follow-up if needed
4. Access to other specialties within the hospital

Appointments are available without long waits, and all services are delivered discreetly and compassionately.

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

• Located in Banbury with excellent private facilities
• Appointments typically available within days
• Consultant-led care with access to advanced diagnostics
• Collaborative outpatient care with physiotherapy, imaging and neurology on-site
• Trusted by GPs and patients across Oxfordshire and the Midlands

To book a private consultation, call 01295 252281 or enquire online.