Natasha Wilch is a registered physical therapist specializing in neurology and concussion recovery. With a Master’s in Physical Therapy from the University of British Columbia, she founded Symphony Rehabilitation (now Symphony Brain Performance) to address gaps in neurological care. Natasha is a passionate advocate for concussion education, offering mentorship for clinicians through her Concussion Nerds program and supporting individuals on their healing journey. She has received multiple awards, including Canada’s Entrepreneur of the Year and the Physiotherapist Leadership Award of BC. In this episode, Natasha shares with us what to do if you have had an acute concussion – what to do in the first 24-48 hours, and what kind of care to seek in that time frame and shortly thereafter. She explains the 7 concussion phenotypes and discusses how to return to play and work/school. Enjoy this conversation!
Contact Info:
Natasha’s Podcast: The Concussion Nerds Podcast
Free Resource for Patients: Concussion Mini School
For Clinicians: Concussion Nerds Mentorship
Instagram: @natasha.wilch
Key Takeaways from This Episode: The Concussion Coach:
First 24-48 Hours: Rest (physically & cognitively), monitor for red flags (worsening symptoms, vomiting, loss of consciousness), and avoid overstimulation.
When to Seek Emergency Care: Go to the ER for severe symptoms like seizures, slurred speech, or fluid leaking from ears/nose.
Early Intervention Matters: Seeing a concussion specialist within the first week improves recovery outcomes.
7 Concussion Profiles:
Autonomic/Physiologic
Vestibular
Oculomotor
Cervical (Neck)
Cognitive
Affective (Mood/Anxiety/Depression/Irritability)
Headache/Migraine
Return to Activity: Gradual reintroduction to school/work before sports, with stepwise progression under professional guidance.
Hormones & Concussion: Women may experience symptom fluctuations based on menstrual cycle phases, and the severity of their symptoms may be linked to what phase of their cycle they were in when the injury occurred.
Concussion Coaching Program: Free Consultation
Final Thought:
"Prioritize the brain—whether it’s your child’s or your own. Early, proactive care makes all the difference." – Natasha Wilch
If you would like to sign up for a free concussion coaching consultation with me to learn how you can understand and manage your symptoms, speed up your recovery, and get your life back following a concussion, go to my website: www.theconcussioncoach.com, or click on this link: https://theconcussioncoach.com/contact