Concussions are a relatively common injury, especially among young athletes, but they can have lasting effects. While head injuries vary in terms of severity and recovery time, they all should be tended to with a proper concussion recovery treatment plan.
With a natural yet effective approach, osteopathic therapy helps patients manage concussion symptoms, improve functions, and return to their day-to-day activities. The team at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery will work with you to create a personalized post-concussion rehab program so you can recover as quickly as possible.
To schedule your first appointment at our Victoria BC, or Burnaby, BC clinic, give us a call today!
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a minor traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by direct or indirect force to the head from some kind of impact. Concussions are often the result of a car accident, sports-related incident, or fall.
Osteopathic therapists can address your condition and treat symptoms without more serious medical intervention. However, in some cases, concussions require extensive treatment, testing, and care to make sure no other serious injuries have occurred.
What Causes Concussions?
- Sports injuries to the head or neck
- Falls
- Direct blow to the head, face, or neck
- Work accidents
- Playground accidents
- Motor vehicle accidents (i.e., cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles)
Recovery from a concussion can take days, weeks, or months, depending on the severity and cause of the injury. In addition, a concussion could also occur with other injuries, such as a fracture, neck injury, or damage to the surrounding tissues. Fortunately, osteopathic therapy can often help with these additional injuries, such as relieving pain or mobility restrictions after a whiplash-related injury.
Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion
Concussion-related symptoms can impact your physical, emotional, and mental health. You may notice some symptoms immediately, while others may appear hours or months after the accident.
Physical Concussion Symptoms
- Headache
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness, vertigo, or other balance issues
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Double or blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light or sound
Cognitive Concussion Symptoms
- Memory issues
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
Emotional Concussion Symptoms
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Depression or anxiety
- Mood swings
- Stress
- Change in personality or behavior
If you suspect a concussion from an injury, the first thing you should do is seek help!
Our team will provide clear instructions about resting and when to avoid physical or mental exertion. Early rest is critical in the first 24-48 hours after a concussion, but recent studies have shown that exercise and activity can help the recovery process.
Our team will monitor your symptoms and help guide you through the entire process back to health and well-being.
What to Expect During Osteopathic Therapy
At your first appointment, we will conduct a complete evaluation, including a thorough history and physical examination. Your osteopathic therapist will then design a customized care plan that addresses your symptoms and, more importantly, gives you the tools to help maximize your recovery.
Here are some of the strategies we might suggest:
Cognitive Rest
- Cognitive rest means avoiding activities that require focus and concentration. This includes engaging with screens such as TVs, tablets, and phones. Giving technology a break allows your brain to rest and will help with recovery.
Light Exercise
- Light aerobic exercise can help facilitate your concussion recovery, but it’s important to choose the right kind of exercise and avoid overexertion. Our team can provide you with the necessary guidance, including monitoring your exercise sessions and adjusting as needed.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
- Osteopathic manipulation (OMT) is a form of treatment that improves blood flow, restores mobility, and reduces tension in the muscles of the upper back and neck region. OMT helps manage concussion symptoms by facilitating the flow of brain fluid, which eases stress in the nervous system and improves autonomic function.
Find Relief at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery in Victoria BC, and Burnaby, BC Today
The experienced team at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery can help you manage your concussion so you can return to your favorite activities.
If you or anyone you know has recently suffered from a concussion, schedule an appointment with us today.
