Concussion Care in Cochrane

The general public typically doesn’t have any official training in how to recognise a concussion. As such, we rely on our gut feelings a lot of the time. So how can we, as parents, teachers and volunteer coaches, increase our knowledge base so we don’t miss something serious? Picture this: in the heat of a game, when the stakes are high, the pressure is on… one of your players goes down with a big hit. How do you confidently know when to sit a player out or put him back into the game? What do you look for? What if others are questioning your judgment? Do you have the conviction to stand by your decision? The reality is that not all hits, wipeouts and blows in sports result in a serious injury, or a concussion, but when they do… returning to play can be extremely dangerous. Here are a few tips to remember that can put your mind at ease.

Most often, the symptoms of a concussion develop in the first ten days and typically resolve within a few months. Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) is defined by a persistence of symptoms – such as headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears, fatigue, depression – which continue for months to years after the injury that initially caused the concussion.

The risk of developing PCS appears to have no direct correlation with the severity of the original injury.

More research is required to determine why some injuries result in PCS and others do not.

Proper management of Post Concussion Syndrome can result in tremendous improvements in symptoms and overall daily function. Each individual is different. Our team of healthcare professionals can help you come back from Post-Concussion Syndrome through any combination of therapies including: Chiropractic Care, Psychiatry, Oculomotor Rehabilitation, Sleep hygiene training, Dietary recommendations, Work/School modifications, Exercise re-introduction.

Second Impact Syndrome is rare, but when it happens, the outcome is devastating. Experiencing a second concussion before signs and symptoms of the first concussion have resolved can result in rapid swelling of the brain. The outcome of Second Impact Syndrome is usually fatal.

It is important for athletes to be aware of this very dangerous scenario. Never return to sports while still experiencing signs and symptoms of a concussion.

Concussions, like any other physical injury, should be properly managed and rehabilitated, especially when symptoms persist beyond the first few days. Imagine if you injured your knee. You rested it for a bit, and after a while it felt better. The body will work to heal the tissues, but there could still be weaknesses or deficiencies present. Going through an assessment to reveal those weaknesses and following up with rehabilitation when necessary will create a better foundation that can then be worked harder and become stronger.

Consider seeking help from a health professional trained in Concussion Management under the following circumstances:

• Symptoms persist, despite early rest
• Presence of ongoing neck pain or stiffness
• Ongoing headaches, dizziness or visual complaints
• Further guidance needed with return to sport, school or work modifications

You will require a significant amount of rest in the early stages of recovery. This includes physical and cognitive rest, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours. So, if you’re tired, have a nap. If you feel the need to go to bed earlier than usual, do it. A very gradual reintroduction of physical activity is recommended, provided it DOES NOT further aggravate symptoms, Speak to your West Valley Chiropractic doc or a health care provider who is trained in concussion management before returning to any activity that may pose a risk of physical contact.

Tasks requiring attention, concentration and visual focus take a considerable amount of cognitive “brain energy” to accomplish. Engaging in these tasks can prolong recovery, as your brain attempts to recharge while in use. Modifications to your work or school routines may be required to facilitate this. The more energy a concussed person uses on school, work, television or video games, the less energy remains for the brain to repair itself. Think of it like recharging the battery on your phone… it will charge more efficiently if you’re not using it while it charges.

So, just to recap: no television, video games, texting, reading or computer work for the first 48 – 72 hours (minimum).

Try saying that 5 times fast! Basically, VOMS a series of tests that checks the connection between vision, balance and movement. This gives us an objective way to measure how your brain is coordinating these functions, and document your progression throughout recovery. Our team at West Valley Chiropractic is specifically trained in VOMS testing and can make recommendations to guide you through your recovery with the help of this useful tool.

Sleep is one of the best ways to recharge your brain. It is not necessary to have someone wake you up throughout the night after experiencing a concussion. Maintaining a proper and consistent sleep schedule is vital to recovery.

If you think of the impact that your body takes when you’ve sustained a concussion, you wouldn’t be surprised if you experience head and neck pain associated with this type of injury. Having your spine and nerve system checked and adjusted by a Chiropractor who is trained in concussion management is an important part of the recovery process. Our precise instrument adjusting technique allows for accuracy and comfort in the treatments.

It is normal to feel sad, angry or frustrated when recovering from a concussion. Becoming easily drained and unable to function as you used to can seem exhausting. It can also be challenging to be removed from work, sport and other social settings for any length of time. Referral for psychological support may be in order if you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, or if you’re having problems with memory or problem solving.