What Is Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or a sudden jolt that causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. It’s a medical diagnosis that requires evaluation by a physician, and should never be self-diagnosed or managed without medical guidance.
Concussions frequently occur alongside whiplash-type injuries to the neck, since the same forces that jolt the brain also affect the cervical spine. This overlap, sometimes described as cervicogenic symptoms, is where supportive musculoskeletal care can play a role once you’ve been medically cleared.
Common Causes of Concussion
- Sports injuries — contact sports are among the most common causes of concussion, particularly in youth and collegiate athletics.
- Falls — a fall that results in a blow to the head can cause a concussion at any age.
- Motor vehicle accidents — the sudden deceleration involved in a crash can cause the brain to move within the skull.
- Physical impacts — a direct blow to the head can result in a concussion.
- Workplace accidents — impacts from falling objects or equipment are a common cause in certain occupations.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Headache
- Confusion or a foggy feeling
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Nausea or vomiting
- Neck pain or stiffness
When to See a Doctor
A suspected concussion should always be evaluated by a medical provider promptly. Certain symptoms require emergency care.
Seek care promptly if:
- Worsening headache
- Repeated vomiting
- Increasing confusion or drowsiness that’s difficult to rouse from
- Seizures
- Weakness, numbness, or slurred speech — seek emergency care immediately
A suspected concussion should be evaluated by a physician right away. Once you have been medically diagnosed and cleared for additional care, call 386-400-3620 to schedule an evaluation for any ongoing neck pain or stiffness.
How We Treat Concussion at Kyro Care
We do not diagnose or treat concussions directly, that requires a physician. But once you’ve been medically evaluated and cleared, we can help address the neck-related symptoms that commonly accompany a concussion. Supportive care may include:
Gentle chiropractic evaluation
Assesses the cervical spine for injury-related restrictions, using an approach appropriate for post-concussion care.
Soft-tissue therapy
Addresses muscle tension in the neck and upper back that can contribute to headaches after a concussion.
Guided, graded return to activity
Working within the pace set by your medical team as you recover.
Coordination with your care team
We communicate with your physician or concussion specialist throughout your recovery.
Concussion recovery should always be led by your medical provider. Once you have been cleared for additional care, call 386-400-3620 to schedule an evaluation for lingering neck symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor diagnose a concussion? +
No. A concussion must be diagnosed by a medical provider. If you suspect a concussion, please seek medical evaluation first. We can support your recovery from related neck symptoms once you’ve been cleared.
Why do concussions often come with neck pain? +
The same forces that cause the brain to move within the skull during a concussion often also affect the cervical spine, which is why neck pain and stiffness are common alongside concussion symptoms.
How long does concussion recovery usually take? +
It varies significantly by person and severity, ranging from days to several weeks or longer. Your medical provider is the best resource for guidance specific to your case.
Is it safe to see a chiropractor during concussion recovery? +
Once you’ve been medically cleared for additional care, gentle chiropractic support for associated neck symptoms can be appropriate. We coordinate with your medical team to make sure care is well-timed.
What are the emergency warning signs after a possible concussion? +
Worsening headache, repeated vomiting, increasing confusion or drowsiness, seizures, or slurred speech all warrant immediate emergency evaluation.
Can post-concussion headaches be related to the neck? +
Yes, cervicogenic headaches, originating from the neck, are common after a concussion and can be a meaningful part of ongoing symptoms. This is an area where we may be able to help once you’ve been cleared.
