Understanding traumatic brain injuries and how we can help
Are you experiencing difficult symptoms after a head injury? It could be a concussion–a minor traumatic brain injury that can be caused by various types of injuries. Often, symptoms will persist for days or weeks. Unfortunately, many of the people who experience a concussion each year aren’t aware that osteopathic therapy is a safe and effective way to heal. The team at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery offers several techniques to help you recover after a concussion.
If you or anyone you know has recently experienced a concussion, contact our Victoria BC, or Burnaby, BC clinic today.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by either a direct blow to the head or indirect forces transmitted to the head by some sort of impact. Sports-related concussions are some of the most common, but other causes include vehicle accidents, falls, and combat-related injuries.
While concussion symptoms typically resolve on their own, our osteopathic therapists can help you recover after a concussion more comfortably and efficiently. The chronic pain and other symptoms caused by a traumatic head injury can negatively impact your daily life, but several noninvasive techniques can help.
What Are the Symptoms of a Concussion?
Concussions can cause a wide range of both physical and psychological effects. Some symptoms may appear immediately, while others may occur days or weeks later. Depending on the severity, a concussion can impact a person’s everyday life, including school and work performance, social interactions, and the ability to achieve normal tasks.
Here are some of the common symptoms of a concussion. Keep in mind that they can look different for every patient, depending on the cause and intensity of the injury.
- Headaches and migraines
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems, dizziness, and blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling sluggish and groggy
- Confusion or memory problems
- Trouble concentrating
- Depressive symptoms or “feeling down.”
Osteopathic Therapy for Concussions
Osteopathic therapy techniques can help reduce traumatic brain injury symptoms, allowing a person to restore their functions and return to normal activities. Techniques that we use in treatment include:
Cognitive Rest
- Cognitive rest means avoiding activities that require focus and concentration. For the first few days after a concussion, try to avoid texting, watching TV, and other activities that involve a screen. This allows your brain to rest and will help with recovery.
Physical Rest (And then Light Exercise)
- Physical rest is also important for the first few days after a concussion. However, studies show that light aerobic exercise can aid recovery after that initial rest period. Our team will let you know which exercises are safe to perform and monitor you to ensure you don’t overexert yourself.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
- Osteopathic manipulation is a treatment that carefully restores order to the cranial unit and improves circulation in the affected area. OMT alleviates symptoms by rejuvenating the flow of brain fluid, easing stress and tension in the nervous system, and improving autonomic function.
Call Today to Request an Appointment
The team at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery helps patients recover after a concussion. We approach each case with compassion and sensitivity while treating patients with innovative and effective methods to advance recovery.
If you recently suffered from a concussion, schedule an appointment with us today.
