Managing Concussion Symptoms with Chiropractic Care
Concussions are complex injuries involving both physical and physiological factors. While primarily considered a brain injury, concussions often come with associated head and neck trauma, which can significantly complicate recovery. Many individuals who suffer from concussions also experience neck pain, headaches, vertigo, or other symptoms stemming from the force of the impact.
Unfortunately, long-term concussion symptoms frequently persist because the soft tissue and neurological damage caused by the injury are not fully addressed. It’s easy to dismiss a fall or accident if immediate symptoms aren’t severe, but neglecting proper treatment for both the brain and neck can lead to lingering issues—sometimes months, years, or even decades after the initial injury.
Common Causes and Challenges in Concussion Recovery
The most frequent causes of concussions include:
- Sports injuries: Contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey often result in concussions, even with improved protocols for management.
- Car accidents: Whiplash and impact injuries from car accidents frequently involve both brain and neck trauma.
- Falls or head impacts: Slips, trips, and accidents at home or work can lead to subtle but significant injuries.
Challenges in Recovery
- Delayed or insufficient treatment: Concussion symptoms may appear mild initially, causing many people to delay seeking care.
- Focus on brain injury only: While addressing the brain is critical, associated neck injuries are often overlooked, prolonging recovery.
- Persistent symptoms: Headaches, brain fog, dizziness, and neck pain may linger due to unresolved underlying issues like misalignments in the upper cervical spine.
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How the Atlas Orthogonal Approach Aids Concussion Recovery
Upper cervical chiropractic care, particularly the Atlas Orthogonal technique, focuses on the alignment of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae at the base of the skull. This area is crucial for brain and spinal cord function, blood flow, and overall neurological health. After a concussion, ensuring proper alignment in this region can significantly aid recovery.
Here’s why Atlas Orthogonal chiropractic is an effective option for concussion recovery:
1. Restores Proper Alignment
- The impact from a concussion often disrupts the alignment of the upper cervical spine.
- Misalignments in the atlas and axis vertebrae can create pressure on the brainstem and surrounding nerves, interfering with healing.
- Realignment restores stability to the head and neck, promoting optimal neurological function.
2. Supports Brain Healing
- Proper alignment improves blood flow to and from the brain, ensuring adequate oxygen and nutrients for recovery.
- Reduced inflammation around the brainstem facilitates better communication between the brain and body, aiding in symptom resolution.
3. Addresses Post-Concussion Syndrome
Many patients with lingering symptoms, known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS), find relief with upper cervical chiropractic care. Symptoms that may improve include:
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Brain fog and cognitive difficulties
- Sensitivity to light or sound
4. Relieves Muscle Tension and Pain
- A misaligned atlas forces the muscles in the neck and shoulders to compensate, leading to chronic tension and pain.
- Gentle adjustments relieve this strain, allowing muscles to relax and function properly.
5. Improves Nervous System Function
- The atlas and axis vertebrae are located near the brainstem, which plays a critical role in processing sensory and motor signals.
- Misalignment can disrupt these signals, contributing to lingering symptoms like poor coordination, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue.
- Atlas Orthogonal adjustments optimize brainstem function, reducing neurological dysfunction.
Why Early Intervention Matters
The steps taken in the weeks and months following a concussion are crucial for a full recovery. Seeking evaluation and care from an upper cervical specialist can help prevent long-term complications, including chronic neck pain, headaches, and other PCS symptoms.
Even if your concussion occurred months or years ago, it’s not too late to benefit from care. Many patients with unresolved symptoms experience significant improvements with Atlas Orthogonal chiropractic adjustments.
What Patients Say About Atlas Orthogonal Care for Concussions
Patients recovering from concussions often report:
- Reduced frequency and intensity of headaches and migraines
- Improved mental clarity and reduced brain fog
- A greater sense of balance and stability
- Relief from neck pain, stiffness, and tension
- Faster recovery and a return to normal activities
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you’re struggling with lingering symptoms after a concussion, know that relief is possible. Atlas Orthogonal chiropractic offers a safe, effective, and natural approach to promoting healing in both the brain and neck. Complete this form to get started!
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Why Choose Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic?
- Specialized Care: Focuses on the crucial connection between the upper cervical spine and brain.
- Non-Invasive and Gentle: Ideal for sensitive or complex cases.
- Whole-Body Benefits: Addresses the root cause of symptoms for lasting relief.
Your Path to Wellness Starts Here
In my office, I prioritize your comfort and health. My process is designed to guide you through each step, ensuring you feel informed and at ease. From your initial consultation to ongoing care, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Step 1:
Precision Imaging
The first step is taking four x-rays of your upper cervical spine. These detailed, 3D images allow me to assess the alignment of your atlas and provide precise measurements of the misalignment. Every individual’s anatomy is unique, and these images ensure that your adjustment is customized for the most effective and gentle correction.
Step 2:
Gentle Adjustment
During the adjustment, you’ll lie comfortably on your side. I carefully position your head and neck to achieve the most accurate alignment. Using a specialized instrument, a controlled, gentle impulse is delivered through a stylus placed behind your ear. Despite its advanced design, the adjustment is entirely non-invasive and painless. Many patients are surprised by how gentle the process feels, with some reporting that they don’t feel the adjustment at all.
Step 3:
Post-Adjustment Care
After your adjustment, your body begins to realign and heal. You may notice sensations like warmth, tingling, or muscle twitches as your nervous system responds to the correction. These responses are normal and indicate that the adjustment is stimulating improved brain-to-body communication.
Concussions
Frequently Asked Questions:
Here are some common questions about my services and what you can expect.
Yes, even mild symptoms can indicate lingering issues that could worsen over time. Early intervention helps ensure full recovery and prevents future complications.
No, it’s never too late. Even years after a concussion, Atlas Orthogonal care can address lingering symptoms like headaches, neck pain, or brain fog.
By restoring proper alignment to the head and neck, Atlas Orthogonal care promotes better brain-to-body communication and reduces post-concussion symptoms.
Still have questions?
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