Contact ports, with all their excitement and thrill, come with a fair share of risks, and one of the most concerning is the prevalence of concussions. These traumatic brain injuries can have profound effects on athletes, both in the short and long term. In this blog post, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, assessment methods, and the crucial role of physiotherapy in the treatment of concussions. Additionally, we'll explore the intriguing connection between neck rehabilitation for migraine symptoms and its influence on dizziness or vertigo.
Causes of Concussions
Concussions occur when a forceful impact to the head or body causes the brain to move within the skull. In sports, this can happen due to direct contact to the head with another player or implement, falls, or any abrupt force that jars the head (whiplash from a tackle).
Symptoms of Concussions
Recognising the symptoms of concussions is vital for prompt intervention. Athletes who experience a concussion may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Impaired balance and coordination
Assessment of Concussions
Healthcare professionals use a combination of clinical evaluations, cognitive tests, and imaging studies to determine the severity and extent of the injury. Immediate assessment is crucial to guide appropriate management and ensure the safety of the athlete. If you feel you may have had a concussion it is recommended you get assessed as soon as possible.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Concussions
Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in the comprehensive management of concussions. The primary goals of physiotherapy treatment include:
1. Restoration of Balance and Coordination:
• Physiotherapists will prescribe you with training drills to retrain balance and coordination, addressing the impaired motor skills often associated with concussions.
2. Gradual Return to Physical Activity:
• Through a structured and supervised program, athletes can safely reintegrate into physical activities without risking a relapse if they successfully pass the stages of the return to play protocols.
3. Neck Rehabilitation:
• Neck rehabilitation is essential as it has a huge impact on concussion symptoms. Addressing neck issues can alleviate symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and vertigo commonly associated with concussions.
Neck Rehabilitation for Migraine Symptoms and Dizziness after concussion:
The relationship between neck issues and migraine symptoms, as well as dizziness or vertigo, is clear. The intricate system of joints and layers of muscle that work to orientate and support the head are usually affected with a contact injury to the head. When this system is not working properly it can cause problems upstream, at the head. Addressing neck-related issues through targeted physiotherapy exercises and manual techniques, such as dry needling, may not only alleviate migraine symptoms but also contribute to the overall recovery of athletes with concussions.
At PhysioK our physiotherapists combine the best manual therapy techniques with state of the art training equipment such as the IronNeck™ and the Chattanooga Stabilizer Pressure Biofeedback Unit™ to rehabilitate you.
Concussions in sports demand a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal recovery and minimise long-term consequences. Our tailored exercises and innovative interventions, prove to be a cornerstone in the treatment of concussions. The evolving understanding of the relationship between neck rehabilitation and symptoms like migraines, dizziness, and vertigo further emphasise the importance of a comprehensive and individualised approach to concussion management for our patients. As we continue to unlock the mysteries surrounding head injuries, one thing remains certain – early recognition, proper assessment, and timely physiotherapy intervention can make a significant difference in an athlete's journey back to full health.