Chiropractic Care For Concussions
By Michael Cole
Concussions have become a medical issue of interest of late as more and more professional athletes, most notably boxers and football players, have been diagnosed with post-concussion complications. Known as post-concussion syndrome by medical doctors, the symptoms of this disorder are complicated but mostly involve headaches and dizziness. These uncomfortable sensations can last for weeks or sometimes months after the original injury that caused the concussion. Perhaps of most concern in post-concussion syndrome is the widely reported loss of attention span by those who experience concussive injury.
Because chiropractic care deals with the musculoskeletal system, which is directly related to the nervous system and the brain, it may have a unique role to play in treating the symptoms of post-concussive symptoms. In fact, a recent review of the relevant literature indicates that chiropractic care may be able to help concussed patients to regain their attention spans.
Role of Chiropractic
Chiropractic care can be considered especially therapeutic for treating patients with post-concussion syndrome for the following reasons:
Virtually any injury that can cause a concussion will also damage the spinal column; chiropractic care is specifically designed to correct restrictions, often called misalignments, in this part of the body, which affects the nervous system.
The signs and symptoms of concussion are disturbances of the patient’s ability to function physiologically, as opposed to some problem with a specific organ such as the liver. Chiropractic care is appropriate because it aims to treat the whole musculoskeletal system, and thus indirectly the nervous system, which brings the body back to its natural physiological functioning.
Chiropractic care has been proven to be effective in managing the pain from headaches, one of the most common symptoms of post-concussive syndrome.
Problems with balance and dizziness respond favorably to chiropractic treatment, which can help to restore stability by correcting misalignments in the spine and other musculoskeletal structures.
Distortion and blurriness of vision is another symptom of post-concussion syndrome, and chiropractic spinal manipulation therapy has been shown in some case studies to be effective in restoring clarity to eyesight.
Insomnia and fatigue are commonly associated with post-concussion syndrome, both of which can be managed by chiropractic pain relief, which removes the aches and pains that keep one up at night.
Numbness and tingling sometimes result from post-concussion syndrome. Chiropractic therapy can replace out-of-position musculoskeletal structures that pinch nerves causing these sensations.
Finding Help
Anyone needing chiropractic care for concussion-related symptoms, or any pain, would be wise to drop in on The Joint Chiropractic, which doesn't take appointments or hassle with insurance. If you need someplace quick for the first time, see chiropractors at The Joint; if you need recurring service, there are affordable plans to fit almost every need.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Clayton, Mo.