Can a chiropractor help treat concussions? Do they help with symptom management and post-concussion syndrome? Yes and yes!

It’s a little-known wonder of the medical world, and today, we’re letting you in on it.

Concussions can happen after hurting your head in a fall, playing sports, or a myriad of other instances. Symptoms can be tricky to spot at first in some cases, so seeing a medical professional immediately if you experience any symptoms is important.

After diagnosis, a chiropractor can help manage some of your concussion-related symptoms. And, symptom management plays a huge role in treating concussions.

What Is A Concussion?

A concussion is defined as a type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), where there is a

temporary disruption of normal brain function caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head or body that transmits force to the head, leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and confusion.

Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Concussion symptoms can show up immediately, or sometimes, they won’t be as obvious at first (this is why immediate diagnosis by a medical professional –even just to be sure– is imperative). These symptoms can include trouble with concentrating, memory, balance, mood, and sleep.

The most common symptoms I observe in my office are headaches and forgetfulness. It can be difficult to diagnose since daily headaches can be common, and forgetting your keys may be considered insignificant.

Symptoms can include:

Headaches
Ringing in the ears
Nausea/vomiting
Change in vision
Confusion
Loss of consciousness
Difficulty concentrating
Slurred speech
Delayed response to questions or conversation
Trouble sleeping
Sensitivity to light
Irritability/crankiness (in children)
Loss of balance

Causes

The most common causes in my office are after a car accident or a slip and fall. Medical history also plays an important role, with past concussions playing a part in the severity of a current one, and other correlations. This is yet another reason why seeking immediate help for concussions is crucial.

Common causes of concussions include:

Car accident
Physical sports (boxing, hockey, basketball, soccer)
Falls
Physical abuse

Complications

Again, past concussions and improper treatment can lead to complications like:

Post-traumatic headaches
Post-concussion syndrome

Standard Concussion Treatment

For the more severe cases, the patient is recommended to limit the use of cell phones or computers, video games, or reading. Avoid physical exertion or rigorous movements until you can perform them without worsening your symptoms.

Then light exercises or physical activities like riding a stationary bike or walking are recommended. Moderated schoolwork is also ideal as you recover. If you are involved in contact sports, it is advised that you not return to play until you are symptom-free. Talk to a medical professional about pain relief medications to treat the physical symptoms of a concussion.

How Chiropractors Help With Treatment For Concussions

Patients typically visit a chiropractic office to relieve concussion-related symptoms like neck pain, dizziness, nausea, or headaches/migraines. It’s important to note that chiropractors are not primary providers specializing in treating concussions, but we can treat musculoskeletal disorders that arise from concussions.

Often, the injured patient presents with a misaligned spine, limited movement, loss of balance, and pain. Chiropractic care, through the use of chiropractic adjustments and adjunctive therapies, has been proven to be effective in addressing these issues.

Considerations About Concussions

A CDC study states, “7 out of 10 emergency department visits for sports- and recreation-related TBIs and concussions are among children ages 17 and under.”

Here are some other statistics that are shown in the study:

Girls have a higher chance of sports-related concussions than boys in sports that use the same rules, like soccer and basketball.
Girls are more likely than boys to report severe and long-lasting symptoms.
Concussion symptoms that affect mental health are more common in girls.

The research has come a long way since 20 years ago, and parents are much more aware of the risks involved when it comes to sports-related injuries for their children. If you are not sure, err on the side of caution and seek the help of a medical professional if you suspect you have a concussion.

Help Manage Concussion-Related Symptoms With Lopez Health Center

Rarely do people suffer from a concussion without also sustaining musculoskeletal injuries, which can range from general pain in the neck, shoulders, and back, all the way to more serious conditions, such as spinal misalignment. But luckily, a chiropractor can help with all of those injuries, getting you back to full recovery after a concussion.

Lopez Center is here to help you get back to your best self, whether that’s back on the football field or just out and about with friends. Don’t stop at just resting your head to relieve a concussion. Stop by Lopez Health Center to experience full recovery from concussion-related symptoms and injuries today.

Concussions and Chiropractic