Life Rebel Chiropractic
There's probably few of us that can claim a childhood free from concussion, from playground falls to sporting collisions, concussions can form a regular routine for children and adults alike. Here, Dr Tim Shakespeare of Life Rebel Chiropractic explains the risks associated with concussion.
What happens when someone gets concussed?
Basically concussion occurs when there is traumatic injury to the brain, and often the cervical spine. The trauma can be through impact sports, a car accident, slips and falls, or being too close to an explosion such as those experienced in the armed forces.
The brain is forced to one side of the skull and the brain tissue, as well as surrounding structures are damaged.
Is it dangerous?
Concussion is dangerous for two reasons; first, because it involves damage to the brain that is undetectable on a CT or MRI. This means that unless there are hard signs of damage, such as memory loss or speech problems, definitive diagnosis is difficult. Second; repeated concussions can result in a condition called Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) which is characterised by permanent alterations in brain structure and function. This in turn can lead to neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinsons, Alzheimers, Depression, or post traumatic stress.
What should we look for?
The easiest way for people to do a self check is to look for facial or cranial asymmetry. Does one eye droop slightly? Is one eyebrow higher than the other? Does one side of the mouth angle down? These coupled with a traumatic event can be the initial signs of concussion or brain injury.
Can damage be reversed?
Yes the body can heal itself. However, if cranial bones or the cervical spine have been misaligned, they will need their position corrected for optimal healing.
Does protective head-gear help?
So long as it doesn't give the person a false sense of security. Injury can definitely still occur. In fact, it's in the NFL, where they wear helmets, that most research into concussion has been done. Consequently every one of the 32 teams in the NFL have a team chiropractor.
Explain the role of chiro in a concussion scenario
Assessing as per usual, but taking close note of facial asymmetry and performing scans and X-rays if appropriate.
If a child gets concussion early in life does it have a bigger impact later on?
Yes, whenever there is injury during development it can have magnified effects. As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.
How many times can someone have concussion before it's deemed unsafe?
No one knows, that's the scary thing. The most important thing is awareness, and proactive care.
