Chiropractic To Treat Concussions in Young Athletes

What You Need To Know About Chiropractic to Treat Concussions

A concussion is a hot topic these days, particularly with regard to young athletes. Fortunately, these injuries are taken more seriously these days. Chiropractic to treat concussions in young athletes is important! As the kids get back into the swing of their extracurricular sports, here are some things to keep in mind about concussions: 

A CONCUSSION DOES NOT NEED A BLOW TO THE HEAD TO OCCUR!

A whiplash-type injury or a blow to the chest can cause a concussion. 

A concussion is not just a knock to the head! You may just feel like you have “had your bell rung”.

Symptoms may include headaches, mental fog, dizziness, balance issues, irritability, sensitivity to noise or light, difficulties sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and neck pain or restricted motion, among others. 

Generally speaking, imaging like CT scans will look completely normal with a concussion, These are good if there is concern about more serious damage, but a clean scan does not mean there is no possibility of concussion.

CHILDREN- DO NOT RETURN TO PLAY!

Where a child has sustained a head or neck injury during play or practice, they should not return to play. Symptoms may be delayed, and children should be removed from the game and monitored.

If symptoms get worse following a concussion, or vomiting continues, seek emergency medical help immediately. Red flags include worsening headache, worsening or relapsing nausea, and vomiting. 

When a concussion is diagnosed, or suspected, consult a trained professional. Specialists trained in concussion management, like chiropractors or physiotherapists, can help guide you in their care, as well as return to school and sports recommendations.  

Children are not the only ones who can get concussions. Adults can as well. Typically symptoms last longer in adults, and they need the same care and attention that children do. 

Don’t forget to ask your chiropractor about pre-season baseline testing for your child if the team does not provide that service. 

Questions? Email our chiropractors Dr. Courteney Werner or Dr. Andrew Bell at admin@triadahealthottawa.com or book online here