Bounce Back Anew: Comprehensive Concussion Care for Lasting Recovery
Understanding Concussions
A concussion is a type of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) that affects brain function and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It is one of the most common forms of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI). Concussions can result from a blow to the head or rapid rotational forces that damage brain cells.
How Common Are Concussions?
Concussions and other brain injuries are widespread concerns. Each year, millions of people experience mTBIs in North America. According to the CDC, there were 2.87 million TBI-related emergency visits, hospitalizations, and deaths, including over 837,000 cases involving children.
Causes of Concussions
Concussions often occur in sports, motor vehicle accidents, and falls, particularly among older adults. While many concussions are mild and symptoms may resolve on their own, others can lead to persistent symptoms. Approximately 15% of concussions develop into Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS), which can be severely disabling and affect various aspects of life.
Symptoms of a Concussion
People with concussions might experience:
Headaches and pressure
Dizziness and balance issues
Blurry or double vision
Sensitivity to light and sound
Fatigue and difficulties with concentration, memory, and emotional regulation
Consequences of a Concussion
The effects of a concussion can be far-reaching. Simple tasks, such as reading or shopping, may become challenging. Driving might provoke headaches and anxiety. Prolonged symptoms can lead to:
Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder
Sleep disorders and chronic pain
Reduced job performance and increased unemployment
Higher risk of substance abuse and suicide
What Happens to the Brain During a Concussion?
The brain consists of neurons, which handle electrical activity, and glial cells, which support neuron functions. Concussions can damage axons, the long projections from neurons, leading to impaired communication between brain regions. This can cause a diffuse axonal injury, where multiple brain pathways are affected.
When brain cells are injured:
Microglia (repair cells) become activated, promoting inflammation.
Neurons may suffer from reduced oxygen, nutrients, and energy, leading to further damage.
Remaining neurons might take on additional functions, potentially overstressing and causing further harm.
Traditional Treatment Approaches
Typically, concussion treatment involves:
Rest and avoiding sensory overload
Gradual increase in activity levels
For persistent symptoms, treatment may include:
Physical therapy
Speech and occupational therapy
Vision and vestibular therapy
While many benefit from these therapies, some individuals experience incomplete recoveries.
Anew Chiropractic’s Approach
To address complex concussion cases, Anew Chiropractic offers a specialized recovery program. This program includes:
1. Initial Assessment:
Detailed patient history to identify underlying issues and contributing factors
Physical examination
Homework
2. Evaluation:
Videooculography for eye movements
Video Head Impulse Testing for vestibular function
Computerized Assessment of Postural Systems (CAPS) for balance
NeckCare for neck function and joint position sense
3. Treatment:
Designed to improve brain function and integration of sensory systems
Includes various therapeutic approaches and metabolic support
4. Homework:
Personalized home exercises that will allow you to continue with your improvements.
5. Follow-up:
Continued follow-ups with our providers to ensure that you are staying on the right track and that your home exercises don’t need to have alterations made.
Your Next Step
To explore if Anew Chiropractic’s program is right for you, contact today to schedule your initial assessment. Remember, recovery is possible, and it's never too late to start.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Traumatic Brain Injury Basics
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - Concussion and Substance Abuse
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - Sleep Disorders and Concussions
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - Chronic Pain and Brain Injuries
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - Job Performance and TBIs
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - Suicide Risk and Brain Injuries