Common Symptoms of Concussion
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Confusion.
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Headache.
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Vision disturbances (double or blurry vision).
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Dizziness or imbalance.
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Nausea or vomiting.
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Memory loss.
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Ringing ears.
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Difficulty concentrating.
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Sensitivity to light.
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Loss of smell or taste.
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Trouble falling asleep
Evidence shows that early detection with subsequent education, reassurance, symptom management and the appropriate follow-up planning can help reduce post-concussion symptoms.
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Chiropractors have the clinical competency to provide immediate diagnosis and assessments. Four years of post-graduate chiropractic training includes core competencies in: clinical practice, neurological assessment and emergency care
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Chiropractors have diagnosed and treated sports-related injuries for years. Athletes of all generations have trusted chiropractic care and the credibility it brings to sports medicine
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Work with an interprofessional care team to care for concussions and manage post-concussion symptoms
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Chiropractors are trained to identify the origin, nature and cause of disease and pathologies.
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On the field of play, a chiropractor can immediately diagnose other head and neck injuries, such as whiplash, which commonly occur with concussions, and offer an appropriate course of care
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury or TBI that changes the way the brain functions. A concussion may be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or even by a hit to the body where the head and upper body are shaken as in a whiplash effect during a car accident which may or may not have a direct blow to one's head.
The rapid back and forth movement of the head and brain is what causes the brain tissue to change shape, which can stretch and damage brain cells. This damage may also cause chemical and metabolic changes within the brain cells, making it more difficult for cells to function and communicate. Since the brain is the body’s control center, the effects of a concussion can be far-reaching.
Concussions can affect memory, judgment, reflexes, speech, balance and muscle coordination.
People with concussions often report a brief period of amnesia or forgetfulness, where they cannot remember what happened immediately before or after the injury. They may act confused, dazed or describe “seeing stars.”
Even mild concussions should not be taken lightly. Although some concussions are less serious than others, there is no such thing as a minor concussion. While the effects of a concussion are typically short-term, they can lead to long-lasting symptoms and long-term effects – especially if left untreated.
