Concussions are taken a lot more seriously now than ever before especially in professional sports. Concussion is a traumatic brain injury that results in swelling of the brain. It usually occurs from a direct trauma to the head or when a violent head movement that causes the brain to bash against the skull bones. The primary sign of a concussion is a loss of consciousness. Other signs and symptoms may include headache, memory loss, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision and ringing in the ears.
There are three most common causes of a concussion are: 1) automobile accidents (with or without hitting your head); 2) falling and hitting your head against something; or 3) a blow to the head during a sporting event, such as hockey.
Depending on the severity of the injury and how the concussion is managed, the result may range from a mild head pain to a more serious brain damage. However, most concussions are mild and usually required rest and time. Medication and surgery are usually not required.
However, what is often overlooked in a head trauma is the injury to the neck. Whiplash type injuries are very commonly associated with a concussion. This soft tissue injury in the neck can also contribute to the symptoms of a concussion, such headaches, dizziness, numbness and tingling in the head and arms. A Chiropractor can assess the neck for soft tissue injuries and misalignments. Chiropractic adjustments, massage and other modalities can help control the swelling and spasms of the soft tissue and reduce the nerve pressure from the neck structures.
The most important point that we should take home is that if you suffered from a head injury with or without a loss of consciousness, get a medical professional evaluation ASAP. Do not return to sports if you have any signs. Furthermore, do not ignore the potential neck injury that may occur along with a concussion. Have your Chiropractor examine the neck for injuries.