Concussion

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain experiences a sudden impact, jolt, or bump.  

Both children and adults are at risk for concussion-related injuries or even death from head injuries. Many children and adults are undertreated after concussion when they could benefit from manual treatment to the head and neck.

Concussion severity can range from “mild” (a brief change in mental status or consciousness) to “severe” (an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia after the injury). It is essential to understand the symptoms of a concussion to ensure timely intervention.

Symptoms of Concussion

  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Balance problems
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Confusion
  • Irritability or being more emotional
  • Memory problems
  • Difficulty with sleep

Causes of Concussion

  • Sports Injuries
  • Falls
  • Car Accidents
  • Physical Abuse

Treatment

At the Hobson Institute, our skilled physical therapists work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans. Breathing Retraining is a therapeutic technique that focuses on improving one’s breathing patterns and habits. After head trauma, breathing patterns change and in many instances, mouth and tongue position change which reduce support to the airway in our throats. The combination of nasal diaphragmatic breathing retraining and tongue to palate/oral posture training can treat concussions by supporting the airway, reducing stress, anxiety, and tension, promoting relaxation, and enhancing oxygenation to the brain, which aids in symptom management and supports the overall recovery process. This rehabilitation process helps individuals regain their pre-injury level of activity and enhances their quality of life.

  • Craniosacral Functional Manual Medicine (FMM) is a gentle hands-on therapy that focuses on evaluating and treating the craniosacral system, which includes the bones, membranes, and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. FMM can help with concussions by promoting relaxation, reducing pain and inflammation, and facilitating the body’s natural healing processes.

  • Manual Therapy encompasses a variety of hands-on techniques performed by trained therapists. In the context of concussions, manual therapy can help by reducing muscle tension, promoting relaxation, improving blood flow, and alleviating pain, contributing to the overall recovery process and symptom management.

  • Breathing Retraining is a therapeutic technique that focuses on improving one’s breathing patterns and habits. After head trauma, breathing patterns change and in many instances, mouth and tongue position change which reduce support to the airway in our throats. THe combination if nasal diaphragmatic breathing re-training and tongue to palate/oral posture training can help with concussions by help support the airway, reduce stress, anxiety, and tension, promoting relaxation, and enhancing oxygenation to the brain, which aids in symptom management and supports the overall recovery process.

  • Vestibular Therapy – is a specialized form of physical therapy that addresses balance and spatial orientation issues. It can help individuals with concussions by reducing dizziness, improving balance, and restoring vestibular function, aiding in their recovery and return to normal activities.

  • Nasal Release Technique – This procedure utilizes a small balloon affixed to an inflatable device that is inserted into the nasal passages. As the balloon inflates, it presses outward against the bones lining the breathing passages and mobilizes the sutures of the skull, particularly the sphenoid.

  • Dry Needling – a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting thin needles into trigger points, can help release muscle pain and tension for muscles strained in injury

  • Soft Tissue Mobilization is a hands-on technique that involves applying pressure and gentle movements to the muscles, fascia, and connective tissues. It can help with concussions by reducing muscle tension, promoting blood flow, alleviating headaches, and aiding in the overall recovery and symptom management process.

Most people recover well from symptoms experienced at the time of the injury. But for some people, symptoms can last for days, weeks, or longer. In general, recovery may be slower among older adults, young children, and teens. Some people may also find that it takes longer to recover if they have previously had a concussion.

Contact us to make an appointment with one of our clinicians today.

Additional Resources