Importance of Post concussion careConcussion and post-concussion syndrome have been in the news for about a year now, especially when it comes to pro sports players dealing with long-term damage from head injuries. In fact, a recent study revealed that 110 out of 111 ex-NFL players examined were suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This is a particular type of brain disease that has a connection with concussions.

But does that mean you should only care about concussions if you play contact sports? Hardly. Concussions can lead to long-term problems for anyone, regardless of how they occur. Consider the following case study.

Case Study Involving Concussions and the Upper Cervical Spine

The study involved the case of a 23-year-old woman who suffered a concussion due to a simple slip and fall accident. Post-concussion symptoms ensued including chronic headaches and vertigo (a form of dizziness that involves a false sensation of movement). Diagnostic imaging ruled out a fracture in the neck, but an upper cervical chiropractor discovered a misalignment in this region.

Practitioners use radiographic analysis to determine the specific degree of misalignment. Then they use low force correction in the neck to restore proper alignment. The next day and the following week, examinations showed that the adjustment was holding, so no further corrections were provided. The patient reported complete resolution of her headaches and vertigo.

At the time the study was published, the patient was receiving examinations every two weeks to ensure alignment continued to hold, and symptoms had not returned.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic and Concussion Care

When a concussion occurs, it makes sense to see an upper cervical chiropractor. The jarring of the skull can cause a misalignment in the atlas (C1) where the head meets the neck. Such a subluxation can lead to pressure on the brainstem, lack of proper blood flow to the brain, and problems with cerebrospinal fluid drainage. These conditions can cause the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome.

With the misalignment relieved, fluid flow is free to return to normal, and the brainstem can also function normally. This may help to ensure that future effects of the concussion do not arise. To learn more, contact an upper cervical chiropractor in your area.

