In our office there are many occasions when a new patient or a returning patient has symptoms of irritability, headaches, nausea, drowsiness and lethargy. Often the patient tells me that the complaints just developed over time. But, in further questioning, the majority have suffered a physically traumatic event like an auto accident, fall, blow to the head or sports injury.
- female high school soccer athletes suffer almost 40% more concussions than males (29,000 annually)
- in 2012, 12% of all ER visits involved concussion, the equivalent of one every three minutes
- the highest number of concussions per 10,000 athletes: football, wrestling, and cheerleading
With concussions, 85% will be better in 7 to 10 days. If symptoms persist, as in the case of the remaining 15%, it is called Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS).
Interestingly, studies reveal damage to the neck also occurs during a head injury, playing a major role in PCS. It is practically impossible to have a concussion without also injuring the neck.
Researchers now are combining the two and calling it Cervicogenic PCS. “Cervicogenic” means “from the neck.” If the neck injury is not treated the person’s symptoms will continue even though the brain injury has healed. I’ve seen this often in my practice.
If you have had a physically traumatic event, I would strongly recommend that you come in to be checked to see if there has been any damage to your spine. If there is injury, we can address it with treatment so it doesn’t worsen. The care given by a chiropractor is the most effective form of helping the spine to repair and become healthy. Current research notes medications, physical therapy and other medical care are no substitute for chiropractic care. If chiropractic treatment is neglected, it could make the difference between health or disability, comfort or pain.
If you, a friend, or a loved one is involved in an accident, please call our office. We are always ready to help you in your quest for good health.