Chiropractic Care for Concussions - Common Questions

Everything you need to know about chiropractic care for post-concussion syndrome recovery.

Chiropractic treatment is often used to help with injuries and health issues. It can reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling, improve range of motion, and increase flexibility. Chiropractic treatment can also improve circulation and promote healing. In addition to helping to improve common health concerns, it’s also great for improving overall health and well-being. 

It’s also an excellent option for treating a concussion. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about using chiropractic care to treat a concussion.

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or a jolt to the body. Any accident can cause a concussion injury, but they are most commonly seen in sports injuries and car accidents. Symptoms of a concussion may include headache, confusion, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. If you or someone you know has a suspected concussion, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.

Concussions are serious injuries and can have long-term effects. Some potential complications of a concussion include problems with memory and concentration, personality changes, depression, and even dementia.

What causes concussions?

There are many common causes of concussions, including falls, car accidents, and sports-related injuries. The condition has gotten significant attention in recent years due to sports injuries. 

A concussion injury occurs when the head is suddenly and violently jarred, causing the brain to strike the inside of the skull. 

While anyone can suffer a concussion, certain groups are at higher risk, including young children, older adults, athletes, and military personnel.

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

There are several potential concussion symptoms, and they can vary depending on the individual. The most common symptom is a headache, but a concussion sufferer may experience dizziness, nausea, lightheadedness, confusion, blurred vision, slurred speech, or sleepiness. In some concussion patients, the injury can also cause loss of consciousness. If you or someone else has a suspected concussion, it's essential to get medical attention immediately.

Can a chiropractor diagnose a concussion?

Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat many different patient conditions. This includes concussions. While a concussion is a type of brain injury, it can often be diagnosed and treated by a chiropractor.

Chiropractors use various methods to diagnose concussions, including taking a complete medical history, doing a physical examination, and ordering imaging tests. They may also use special instruments to assess your balance and coordination. If a concussion is suspected, the chiropractor will create a treatment plan that may include manual therapies, exercises, and lifestyle changes to facilitate concussion recovery.

What is the best course of treatment for a concussion?

There is no single answer to this question, as the best course of treatment for a concussion varies depending on the individual. However, some general principles that can help guide concussion treatment include rest, avoiding strenuous activity, and gradually increasing activity levels as tolerated. 

If symptoms persist or worsen, get emergency medical attention. In some cases, further imaging or other diagnostic testing may be necessary to rule out more severe conditions. Chiropractic adjustment and care for a concussion should always be individualized and tailored to the specific case.

Can you go to the chiropractor when you have a concussion?

See a medical doctor for treatment if you are experiencing severe headaches or neck pain after sustaining a concussion. In some cases, chiropractic care may be recommended after the acute symptoms of a concussion have subsided. If you are considering seeing a chiropractor for your concussion, consult your doctor first.

Can a chiropractor help with post-concussion syndrome?

A chiropractor can help with post-concussion syndrome by reducing symptoms and aiding in recovery. Chiropractic care can help improve symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. It can also help to improve cognitive function and increase range of motion.

Chiropractic care is a drug-free, non-invasive treatment option that can help patients with post-concussion syndrome. 

How does a chiropractor treat post-concussion syndrome?

A chiropractor can help treat post-concussion syndrome by providing care focusing on the neck and head to help realign the spine and relieve pressure on the nervous system. Chiropractic care can also help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. These benefits can all help to reduce symptoms of post-concussion syndrome.

How long does it take for a concussion to heal?

The amount of time it takes for a concussion to heal varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the injury. However, rest and proper care will improve most concussions within a few weeks.

How many chiropractic treatments will I need to ease concussion symptoms?

The number of chiropractic treatments needed to ease concussion symptoms varies from case to case. Some people may only need a few treatments, while others may need more. The severity of the concussion and the individual's response to treatment also affect how many treatments are required. Chiropractic care is often successful in helping people recover from concussions and other traumatic brain injuries and head trauma.

What are the risks of not treating a concussion?

If you have suffered a concussion, get medical attention as soon as possible. While concussions are usually not life-threatening, they can still cause severe problems if they are not appropriately treated.

One of the most significant risks of not treating a concussion is that it could lead to further injury. If you hit your head again before your concussion heals, you could have more severe injuries, such as a brain bleed.

Another risk of not treating a concussion is that it could lead to long-term issues. Concussions can cause problems with memory, concentration, and balance. If you don't get proper concussion management, these problems could persist and worsen over time.

Dr. Darren Faherty D.C.

In 2004, Dr. Darren Faherty graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from UWEC - University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Dr. Darren continued education at the highly esteemed University of Western States (formerly Western States Chiropractic College) where he obtained his chiropractic degree in 2007. He has been helping people recover from injuries and return to their normal lifestyles ever since.