Understanding Concussion: The 7 Phenotypes & How We Collaborate for Complete Recovery
Concussions are complex—and recovery is rarely one-size-fits-all. At Equilibrium Audiology, we understand that each person’s concussion experience is unique. That’s why we work in close partnership with Sports Concussion South Africa, a multidisciplinary network of experts committed to personalised, evidence-based concussion care.
What Is a Concussion Phenotype?
Recent research shows that concussions can present in different subtypes or “phenotypes”, each with its own symptoms, underlying mechanisms, and treatment needs. Identifying a patient’s phenotype allows us to tailor rehabilitation—rather than offering generic advice or rest alone.
| The 7 Concussion Phenotypes |
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| 1. Vestibular Phenotype: Characterized by dizziness, imbalance, motion sensitivity, or difficulty with head or visual movement. Our role: Comprehensive vestibular diagnostics (VNG, vHIT, VEMP, saccadometry) and personalized vestibular rehabilitation using tools like Virtualis VR™ and gaze stabilization therapy. |
| 2. Autonomic/Physiologic Phenotype: Characterized by exercise intolerance, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, heart-rate variability, and thermoregulation issues. Our role: Exercise-based rehab, heart rate-controlled exertion, nervous system regulation in collaboration with physiotherapists. |
| 3. Visual/Ocular-Motor Phenotype: Involves visual tracking issues, blurred vision, headaches, or difficulty focusing—especially when reading or using screens. Collaborative care: We assess eye-vestibular integration and refer to behavioural optometrists when visual training is needed. |
| 4. Cognitive/Fatigue Phenotype: Patients struggle with concentration, memory, mental stamina, and experience brain fog. Shared strategy: We coordinate with neuropsychologists and functional medicine providers to support cognitive recovery, sleep, nutrition, and pacing strategies. |
| 5. Affective/Mood Phenotype: Concussions can trigger or worsen emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, or panic—especially in sensitive nervous systems. Our support: Mindfulness-based self-regulation training and polyvagal-informed coaching help reduce sensory overload and promote emotional resilience. |
| 6. Headache-Migraine Phenotype: These patients experience migraine-like symptoms: throbbing headaches, light/sound sensitivity, nausea, or visual auras. Team approach: We provide sound therapy support and sensory modulation while working with neurologists and headache specialists for medical management. |
| 7. Cervical Phenotype: Neck pain, stiffness, dizziness, and headache can stem from whiplash or cervical spine involvement. Interdisciplinary care: We refer to physiotherapists and chiropractors in the Concussion Team SA network for cervical realignment and myofascial release. |
Why Team-Based Care Matters
At Equilibrium Audiology, we’re proud to be part of a network of audiologists, neurologists, sports physicians, physiotherapists, optometrists, psychologists, and coaches who work together to:
- Identify each patient’s unique concussion phenotype
- Share clinical findings through collaborative case reviews
- Build integrated care plans that are both targeted and trauma-informed
No more bouncing from one provider to the next. Patients receive coordinated, connected care that accelerates recovery and supports the whole person.
Concussion Recovery Starts with the Right Diagnosis
If you or someone you love is still struggling after a head injury—even weeks or months later—we’re here to help.
At Equilibrium Audiology, we offer:
- Comprehensive vestibular and auditory concussion assessments
- Functional neurosensory testing
- Access to the full Sports Concussion South Africa network for referrals and co-managed care
Book a concussion assessment today and let’s uncover your phenotype—and your path to healing.
