#035 Sports medicine/physio series - Concussion rehabilitation with Dr Julia Treleaven

Episode Title: Concussion Rehabilitation with Dr. Julia Treleaven 🎙 Host: Carolyn Kent 🎙 Guest: Dr. Julia Treleaven, Associate Professor at the University of Queensland and Fellow of the Australian College of Physiotherapists 🔹 Episode Overview: In this episode of the Women's Football Hub podcast, host Carolyn Kent speaks with Dr. Julia Treleaven, a leading researcher in neck dysfunction, post-concussion rehabilitation, and sensory motor control. With over 150 publications and extensive clinical experience, Dr. Treleaven provides expert insights into concussion rehabilitation, return-to-play protocols, and long-term brain health in athletes. 🔹Key Topics Discussed: ✅ What happens during a concussion – beyond a direct blow to the head ✅ The key signs and symptoms players, coaches, and clinicians should watch for ✅ Differences in concussion response between male and female athletes ✅ Why complete rest in a dark room is outdated advice ✅ The role of aerobic exercise in early recovery ✅ How the neck, vestibular, and visual systems influence symptoms ✅ The rehabilitation process – screening, treatment, and return to play ✅ The link between concussion and musculoskeletal injuries like ACL tears ✅ The importance of multidisciplinary care in concussion management ✅ The latest research on long-term concussion risks 🔹 Key Takeaways for Clinicians & Coaches: 💡 “If in doubt, sit them out.” – When unsure about a concussion, always prioritise safety 💡 Rehab is essential – Concussion is a rehabilitative injury, not just a rest-and-recover issue 💡 The neck matters! – Strength, proprioception, and coordination play a huge role in reducing concussion risk 💡 Multiple concussions increase risk – Time between injuries matters, and rehabilitation must be thorough 💡 Check for subtle impairments – Even when symptoms resolve, reaction time, balance, and vision may still be affected 🔹 Resources Mentioned: 📌 Parachute Canada – Concussion guidelines for youth athletes https://parachute.ca 📌 Headway UK – Brain injury and concussion resources https://www.headway.org.uk 📌 FIFA Concussion Guidelines – Latest protocols for footballers https://inside.fifa.com/campaigns/concussion 🔹 Connect with Dr. Julia Treleaven: 🐦 Twitter/X: @JuliaTreleaven 🌍 University Profile: University of Queensland 🔹 Subscribe & Follow Women's Football Hub: 🌐 Website: www.womensfootballhub.com