A concussion is an injury that results in temporary loss of normal brain function. An accidental fall, sports injury, or vehicle accident often causes concussions. Many people who experience a concussion don’t know the warning signs and are unaware of the injury they’ve endured.
The team at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery has extensive experience in concussion recovery. Our osteopathic therapists can help you manage your symptoms and optimize your functions so you can return to everyday life in no time.
However, seeking concussion care does depend on you recognizing the signs and symptoms of a concussion. Today, we want to share what to look out for and provide a bit of guidance about what you can expect from osteopathic therapy.
Common Concussion Signs and Symptoms
Concussions develop due to a blow or jolt to the head. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone who suffers a concussion loses consciousness. It’s also important to remember that symptoms won’t always appear right away, so you need to be vigilant in the first 48 hours after suffering a head injury.
Here are some of the common signs:
Headaches
- Headaches are quite common after concussions. You’ll typically feel the pain in the front or both sides of your head. Mild to moderate headaches are to be expected, but severe pain that gets worse with movement may mean something more serious is going on.
Confusion, Memory Loss, or other Cognitive Symptoms
- Because concussions are brain injuries, your symptoms might not just be physical. Some people experience cognitive disruptions, such as confusion or memory loss. You might feel disoriented or unclear about your surroundings. Some people also experience mood changes.
Balance Difficulties
- Balance and coordination issues are also common signs. You might feel dizzy when you move your head, bend over, or stand up after lying down, which can impact your balance. Some people develop vertigo, a type of dizziness that creates a spinning sensation.
Nausea and Vomiting
- Nausea and vomiting are most likely to occur within 24 to 48 hours after a concussion. They often accompany dizziness, vertigo, and other balance difficulties.
How Osteopathic Therapy Treats Concussions
Every concussion presents differently depending on which area of the brain was affected by the injury. Our osteopathic therapists will assess your symptoms to design an appropriate care plan for your needs. Some of the techniques we might incorporate include the following:
- Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)
- Light aerobic exercises
- Balance and coordination exercises
- Strengthening and stretching exercises
Concussion Recovery FAQ
When should I seek care for concussion symptoms?
Most symptoms will resolve in a few weeks. However, if your symptoms are particularly intense–or linger for a month or longer–post-concussion rehabilitation at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery can help you get back to your old self.
How long will it take me to recover?
Every patient will have a different recovery experience. Osteopathic therapy can facilitate that process and help provide a safe return to sports and other activities.
Does osteopathic therapy hurt?
Osteopathic therapy aims to reduce discomfort rather than make it worse. However, your pain levels may alter depending on your health, symptoms, and other factors. We’ll monitor your pain and prioritize your comfort during treatment.
Book an Appointment Today!
If you’re struggling with post-concussion symptoms, osteopathic therapy at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery offers a holistic approach to finding relief. Schedule an appointment with us today to get started.
