Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur when the head experiences a strong impact. They are common among athletes, particularly those who play contact sports like football, soccer, and rugby. While most people fully recover from a concussion within a few weeks, some can experience long-term effects if they are not treated properly. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to treat concussions, including rest, medications, treatments, and more.
Rest is often the first line of treatment for concussions. It’s essential to avoid activities that can increase symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness. This means taking time off from school, work, and sports. Resting helps the brain heal after an injury and reduces the risk of re-injury. Your doctor may recommend a gradual return to activity once your symptoms have fully resolved.
Medications can also be used to manage the symptoms of concussions. Some over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help reduce headaches, while anti-nausea medications can help with vomiting and nausea. However, it’s important to avoid aspirin and ibuprofen, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to manage mood swings, insomnia, or other symptoms that affect your daily life.
Treatments can play a vital role in concussion treatment, especially for those who experience long-term effects. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help manage anxiety and depression.
A concussion can also affect your sleep patterns, so it’s important to establish good sleep habits. These include going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and creating a relaxing sleep environment. If you’re having trouble sleeping, your doctor may recommend sleep aids like melatonin or counselling to help manage stress and anxiety.
Lastly, it’s crucial to have a support system during concussion treatment. You may need help with daily tasks, transportation, and emotional support. Friends, family members, or a therapist can be valuable allies as you recover. Joining a support group can also provide a sense of community and understanding.
How to Treat a Concussion
A concussion is a serious injury that can result in long-term consequences if not properly treated. Seeking medical attention immediately is crucial, as a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose and monitor the severity of the concussion. In addition to traditional medical care some individuals may also consider seeking treatment from a chiropractor. Chiropractors can offer a variety of non-invasive treatments, such as spinal adjustments and soft tissue treatments, to help alleviate symptoms associated with concussions. It is important to note, however, that chiropractic care should only be sought after consulting with a medical professional and determining what course of treatment is best for the individual. With proper care and attention, individuals suffering from a concussion can recover fully and avoid future complications.
How to Relieve Pain From a Concussion
A concussion can be a traumatic experience, leading to headaches, nausea, dizziness, and other symptoms that can severely impact your daily life. Seeking medical attention is crucial to diagnose and monitor the injury, but you may also consider seeking the help of a chiropractor to alleviate pain and discomfort. Chiropractic treatment can help relieve headaches and neck pain caused by the concussion by realigning the vertebrae in the cervical spine. The treatment can also relieve pressure on the nerves that contribute to symptoms like dizziness and nausea. While chiropractic care should not replace medical attention, it can serve as a complementary treatment to help you recover from a concussion.
Who Should I See For a Concussion
If you have experienced a concussion, seeking medical attention is crucial to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. While some may assume that visiting a primary care physician or neurologist is the best option, it is important to consider other healthcare providers who specialize in brain injuries. Chiropractors, for example, are trained in treating concussions and can offer a more holistic approach to care. They can provide not only physiotherapy for concussions and rehabilitation but also nutritional and lifestyle recommendations to aid in the healing process. However, it is important to research and find a qualified chiropractor with experience and expertise in the treatment of concussions. Consulting with your primary care physician or neurologist can also help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Remember, seeking prompt and appropriate medical attention is crucial in managing a concussion and promoting a timely recovery.
Top 5 Tips to Relieve Pain From Concussions
Suffering from a concussion is never an easy experience. It can leave you with a range of painful symptoms, including dull headaches, dizziness and even trouble sleeping. However, there are ways to alleviate the pain and start the road to recovery. One approach is to seek the help of chiropractors who are trained to assist with such conditions. In addition, there are other useful tips to keep in mind when trying to relieve concussion-related pain. These may include getting enough rest, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, eating a healthy diet, avoiding vigorous physical activity, and following doctor’s orders. By taking a proactive approach, you can minimize pain and maximize your chances of a full and speedy recovery.
10 Best Ways to Treat Concussions
1. Rest: Rest is crucial in the early stages of concussion recovery. Physical and cognitive rest helps the brain heal and reduces the risk of further injury.
2. Gradual Return to Activity: After a period of rest, gradually reintroduce activities, such as schoolwork and physical exercise, based on the guidance of a healthcare professional. Progression should be monitored and symptoms should not worsen during activity.
3. Cognitive Rest: Limit activities that require concentration, such as reading, screen time, and playing video games. Give your brain time to heal and gradually reintroduce cognitive activities as symptoms improve.
4. Physical Rest: Avoid physical activities, sports, or exercises that can potentially worsen symptoms or risk further injury. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on when it’s safe to resume physical activity.
5. Symptom Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, may help manage headache symptoms. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
6. Mental Health Support: Concussions can have psychological effects, such as mood swings and anxiety. Seek support from mental health professionals, such as psychotherapists or counselors, who can help you cope with the emotional impact of the injury.
7. Close Monitoring: Concussion symptoms can change over time. Regular check-ins with healthcare professionals, including physicians or specialists in sports medicine, can ensure proper monitoring and appropriate adjustments to the treatment plan.
8. Rehabilitation Exercises: Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, specific exercises can be prescribed to target balance, coordination, and other areas affected by the concussion. These exercises can aid in the recovery process.
9. Gradual Return to Play: For athletes, a stepwise approach to returning to sports or physical activity is recommended. This includes progressing through a structured protocol that assesses symptoms and gradually increases activity levels.
10. Education and Support: Educate yourself and others about concussions. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and risks associated with concussions can help promote early recognition and appropriate management. Seek support from family, friends, and support groups to aid in the recovery process.
It’s important to remember that the treatment of concussions should be individualized and based on the severity of the injury. Always consult with healthcare professionals for proper assessment and guidance throughout the recovery process.
Concussions are serious injuries that require proper treatment to prevent long-term effects. The best way to treat a concussion is individualized to the person so it is important to reach out to a healthcare practitioner to learn what is best for your recovery. Rest, medications, therapy, good sleep habits, and a supportive environment are all essential in the recovery process. If you or a loved one experiences a concussion, be sure to seek medical attention right away and follow your doctor’s recommendations. A little patience and care can go a long way in ensuring a full and healthy recovery.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC, or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
