Fall 2021

Fortius Niagara Grand Opening was a Success!!

We were overwhelmed by the amount of support we have had since we opened this past April. We would like to thank the Mayor Jim Diodati for his kind words during the ribbon cutting ceremony and to all of our family, friends and patients who came out and showed their support as well as helping us collect food items for Project Share. Fortius means “stronger” which represents our goal for our community. Through our services we strive to help everyone who comes through our doors reach their goals of becoming stronger, independent and pain free. Our patients make our jobs enjoyable and rewarding and for that we thank you! Cheers to many more years 🙂

When most people think of a concussion, they think about a sports injury. Although this is true, not all concussions are sports related and/or need a bump on the head to cause one. A concussion can also be caused by a whiplash injury, a car accident, a slip and fall, accidents at home, or an assault. A concussion is defined as a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that is caused by a hit or jolt to the head, neck or to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement of quick acceleration then deceleration can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull. It’s this movement of shearing or stretching that can create chemical changes in the brain. These changes are not structural damages and therefore do not show up on any imaging or blood work. Because of this, a diagnosis is based on a clinical diagnosis by the doctor.

 

A clinical diagnosis is based on

• Mechanism of injury
• Loss of consciousness (LOC) that is less than 30 mins (But there doesn’t have to be a LOC to have a concussion. Anything longer than 30 min means something more serious than a concussion may be  occurring)
• Signs and symptoms such as feeling dazed, nausea, blurred vision, dizziness, light or sound sensitivity, tiredness, fogginess, mood changes, trouble focusing, confusion, memory problems or a general sense of just not feeling like yourself

 

So what do you do if you think you have a concussion?? First, if your symptoms get worse or you have RED FLAGS seek medical attention immediately! But for the most part there is Good News! You do NOT need to cocoon in a dark room or be woken every 2 hours. Those are old wives tales that are simply untrue. Most concussions will clear up on their own within a couple days with relative rest, limited screen time and proper nutrition and sleep. However, If your symptoms persist you may need some guidance to help your brain heal. That’s where we come in! Concussion rehab can consist of education and strategies for home management of symptoms as well as manual therapy, graded aerobic exercises, a home program and exercises for balance, vision, memory/concentration and neck pain. Concussion physiotherapy is individualized treatment based upon your symptoms and goals.

 

If you think you or someone you know may need some concussion rehab or have any questions, please contact the office at Fortius and we will be happy to help.

 

Jennifer Lapierre, PT, BSc, MPT, DPT

On August 11, 2021 a dear patient and friend, Angelina Greco, age 14, suffered a life-threatening brain bleed called Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM). An AVM is a tangle of abnormal arteries and veins in the brain, usually developed at birth, and can affect 2% of the population. A rupture or hemorrhage most commonly occurs in youth ages 10-20. Luckily with the help of an incredible neurosurgical team in Hamilton, her parents by her side, and amazing family and friend support and prayers, Angelina pulled through a very critical time and is well on her way to an amazing recovery. She is currently in Toronto at the best children’s Rehabilitation Hospital receiving exceptional rehabilitation treatment from an outstanding therapy and medical team, and is getting stronger and stronger each day! Her drive and determination through her recovery has been nothing but inspiring and remarkable one step at a time.

Our clinic name “Fortius” means “stronger” and Angelina is showing just how much ‘stronger’ she can be. Every day our Fortius team sends her positive energy, good vibes, and prayers of strength on her journey, and is amazed by the incredible updates we receive on her perseverance and incredible progress. We all wish Angelina continued strength and encouragement to help her make a full and speedy recovery!

Coleen Martuccio, BKin, RMT