Understanding Concussions: Causes, Symptoms, and Lasting Effects

Understanding Concussions: Causes, Symptoms, and Lasting Effects

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can have a profound impact on a person’s life. While it’s often considered a mild injury, its effects can be far-reaching, and some people experience long-term symptoms that can interfere with daily activities for years. Concussions are caused by a blow or jolt to the head, leading to a temporary disruption in brain function. However, the aftermath can be complex and persistent, affecting a person’s cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being.

What Causes a Concussion?

Concussions occur when the brain is jolted or shaken inside the skull, typically due to a sudden impact to the head. The most common causes include:

• Sports-related injuries: High-impact activities like football, soccer, hockey, and even basketball can lead to concussions. Players are at risk of taking hits or falls that result in head trauma.

• Motor vehicle accidents: A car crash, particularly one involving whiplash or a direct blow to the head, can cause significant head trauma leading to a concussion.

• Falls: Accidents such as slipping or tripping can cause the head to strike the ground or another surface.

• Workplace injuries: Certain professions that involve physical labor or the risk of head injury, like construction or manual labor, can increase the risk of concussions.

• Violence: Physical altercations, assaults, or accidents involving an object to the head may also lead to a concussion.

While most people recover from a concussion in a few days to weeks, the recovery process can be prolonged for some individuals, with symptoms continuing for months or even years.

Symptoms of a Concussion

Symptoms of a concussion can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual. Some symptoms may appear immediately, while others may develop over hours or days. Common symptoms of a concussion include:

• Headache: One of the most common symptoms, headaches may vary in intensity and can feel like a dull ache or a more intense, throbbing pain.

• Dizziness or Balance Problems: Many people experience a sensation of being lightheaded, unsteady, or even dizzy.

• Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms can accompany a concussion, particularly shortly after the injury.

• Fatigue: Concussions can cause extreme tiredness, even after sufficient rest. This can make it difficult for individuals to maintain regular activities.

• Memory Loss or Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty concentrating or remembering things can be a significant issue, with some individuals feeling foggy or mentally slow.

• Sensitivity to Light and Sound: Concussion sufferers often report increased sensitivity to bright lights or loud noises.

• Mood Changes: Irritability, anxiety, depression, and emotional instability are also commonly associated with concussions.

• Sleep Disturbances: People with concussions may experience difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much.

• Vision Problems: Blurred vision or difficulty focusing can also arise after a concussion.

While these symptoms may resolve on their own for some individuals, others may experience persistent symptoms, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS). This condition can last for weeks, months, or even years, causing significant disruption to daily life.

Why Do Concussion Symptoms Last So Long?

In many cases, concussion symptoms will subside within a few weeks. However, for others, the symptoms persist and can become chronic. The exact reason why some individuals experience long-lasting symptoms is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

1. Brain inflammation: Following a concussion, the brain may experience inflammation that affects the normal functioning of neurons. This can lead to ongoing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties.

2. Neurochemical imbalance: The concussion may disrupt neurotransmitter function, leading to mood swings, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Imbalances in serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters can make it difficult for individuals to regain mental clarity and emotional stability.

3. Neurodegenerative effects: In some cases, repeated concussions or trauma to the brain can result in long-term damage to brain cells, increasing the risk of conditions like chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

4. Autonomic nervous system disruption: The autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like heart rate and blood pressure, can be impacted after a concussion, leading to issues such as dizziness, difficulty regulating body temperature, and sleep problems.

5. Psychological factors: The emotional toll of experiencing a concussion and the frustration of not seeing immediate improvement can lead to anxiety, depression, and further cognitive difficulties.

Solutions for Concussion Recovery

While traditional medical treatment for concussions may involve rest and monitoring, alternative approaches can help support healing and manage symptoms. In my practice, I use a combination of Applied Kinesiology, Cranial Work, Chiropractic Adjustments, and Nutritional Supplements to promote recovery and alleviate the lasting effects of a concussion.

1. Applied Kinesiology

Applied Kinesiology (AK) is a diagnostic tool that assesses muscle strength and the body’s response to various stimuli. This method helps identify areas of stress or dysfunction in the body that may result from a concussion. AK enables us to pinpoint which systems, organs, or structures are out of balance or underperforming. By stimulating the body’s natural healing responses, we can aid in restoring balance to the nervous system and support brain recovery.

For individuals dealing with concussion symptoms, AK is used to assess muscle function and detect neurological imbalances. Specific treatments are then applied to help restore the brain-body connection, improving cognitive function and reducing symptoms like dizziness and fatigue.

2. Cranial Work

Cranial work involves gentle, non-invasive manipulation of the bones in the skull. The goal is to relieve pressure, improve circulation, and stimulate the body’s innate healing capabilities. After a concussion, the cranial bones can become misaligned, which may lead to continued symptoms. Cranial work helps realign these bones, enhance cerebrospinal fluid flow, and promote proper brain function.

By applying precise, gentle techniques to the head and neck, cranial work can reduce headaches, improve balance, and alleviate cognitive dysfunction, helping individuals recover from long-term concussion symptoms.

3. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is essential for concussion recovery because it focuses on the spine and nervous system, which play a critical role in brain function. Misalignments (subluxations) in the spine can interfere with communication between the brain and body, contributing to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. By correcting these misalignments, chiropractic adjustments restore proper nerve function and support the healing process.

Spinal adjustments can help reduce tension in the neck and upper back, areas commonly affected by concussion trauma. Chiropractic care helps restore balance to the nervous system, promoting better overall health and reducing long-term symptoms.

4. Nutritional Supplements

The right nutritional supplements can support brain function and healing after a concussion. In my practice, I recommend the following:

• Neurotrophin PMG: A supplement designed to support neurological health, improve brain function, and promote recovery from brain injuries.

• Tuna Oil: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, tuna oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce brain inflammation and promote neuronal repair.

• RNA (Ribonucleic Acid): RNA supports cellular repair and regeneration, helping to repair damaged brain cells and support long-term recovery.

These supplements, when used alongside other therapies, can provide the body with the tools it needs to recover and heal from the effects of a concussion.

Conclusion

A concussion is not just a “bump on the head”—it’s a serious injury with the potential for long-lasting effects. Symptoms can persist for months or even years, impacting cognitive function, mood, sleep, and overall quality of life. However, with a comprehensive approach that includes Applied Kinesiology, Cranial Work, Chiropractic Care, and targeted Nutritional Supplements, it is possible to support healing and alleviate symptoms. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of a concussion, consider reaching out to a holistic healthcare provider who can guide you through the recovery process and help restore your quality of life.