Chiropractic Concussion Treatment

Concussion Treatment | East Vancouver Chiropractic Clinic

What is a Concussion?

  • A concussion is a biomechanically induced alteration of brain function which may involve loss of consciousness
  • Concussions can occur in any activity but are most common among 10-14 year olds playing sports1
    • High risk sports include football, soccer, hockey, rugby and basketball
  • Girls suffer concussions more often than boys
  • Children under 16 take longer to recover from concussions than adults
    • On average children take 3 weeks whereas adults take 1 week
  • Interesting fact: In the 30 second delay before an MMA (mixed martial arts) fight is stopped the loser endures an average of 18.5 additional strikes, of which 92.5% are to the head! 2

Signs and Symptoms

  • Immediately After
    • Confusion or Disorientation
    • Headaches
    • Fatigue
  • Within 24 hours
    • Slowed reaction Time
    • Impaired balance
  • 48 hours to 16 days later
    • Enhanced Sensitivity to Light and Sound
    • Sleep Disturbance (mainly for the first week)
  • Within 90 days
    • Many of these symptoms subside within a week and people return to their normal function within 90 days.
    • Stay vigilant however as some people experience worsened post concussive symptoms which can include: persistent vomiting, worsening headache and increased disorientation.
    • Previous concussions are a risk factor for suffering another concussion with longer lasting and more severe symptoms

What to do if someone you know has had a concussion?

  • If you suspect an athlete has had a concussion it is best to remove them from play
    • They should be watched for the first few hours after injury and should not be left alone
  • The person should be advised to avoid activities that require excessive stimulation and concentration
    • These include, but are not limited to, working at a computer, watching TV and exposure to bright or flashing lights
  • As Vancouver Chiropractors, our chiropractors are trained to evaluate and manage people who sustain musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Returning to normal activities involves starting with light walking and then progressing to higher intensity exercises (ie: running, resistance training)
    • Avoid contact activities unless signed off by a healthcare provider

Our Vancouver Chiropractic Care Centre

If you are experiencing whiplash or headaches as a result of a concussion, come in and see our Vancouver Chiropractor. Don’t hide your symptoms and continue playing your sport. Get yourself checked out so you can get back in the game!

Related Posts for Sports Injuries: Running InjuriesPlantar Fasciitis, Shin Splints, Achilles Tendonitis

2917 Hebb Ave., Vancouver, BC

Phone: 604-876-9977                 Email: info@backsinaction.ca

 References:

1) http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/wk/mm6039.pdf

2) Hutchison MG, Lawrence DW, Cusimano MD, Schweizer TA. Head trauma in mixed martial arts. AM J Sports Med June 2014