Can Chiropractic Help Concussion?

Mild traumatic brain injury has been a major topic in the sports landscape within the past decade. Most patients recover within a few weeks, but some can experience ongoing issues. This is described as post concussive syndrome. Today, we will be taking a look at what current studies say about mild traumatic brain injury, and if chiropractic care can help aid recovery.

A study was done in April 2021 which looked at the clinical prevalence, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for neck related symptoms which occur during the acute and chronic stages following concussion. It concluded that the rate of symptom resolution is reduced when next symptoms are present following concussion. Researchers were unfortunately unable to find out how often next symptoms are present during the acute stage of concussion, but estimates believe that it can occur in up to 70% of cases. Researchers were able to calculate that the risk for developing post concussive symptoms increased between two times and six times in mild traumatic brain injury patients who experienced neck pain in the acute stage. The review also found that the use of manual therapies, provided by a doctor of chiropractic, can benefit post concussive patients by reducing their symptoms and speeding up the recovery process.

A study done in December 2020 used a multi modal management approach in a group of three patients. To had sports related injuries and one had a non-sports related injury. Each patient was in a different stage of recovery. Treatment plans tailored individually to the patient. It included patient education, sub symptom threshold exercise, soft tissue therapy, manipulative therapy, and visual rehabilitation exercises. The study found three important things. These are:

1) the efficacy of three different multi-modal treatment plans based on suggested clinical profiles for patients with PCS (post-concussive symptoms);

2) that the delineation of concussion literature based on mechanism of injury (sport vs. non-sport) may be unnecessary; and

3) these cases provide encouraging evidence to support the use of manual therapists—such as chiropractors—as part of the multi-modal, interdisciplinary healthcare team.

The authors found that reported cognitive rest until the point of symptom resolution may not be necessary. They also found that complete rest for more than a few days was not supported by recent literature, and was seconded by a statement from the American Medical Society for sports medicine. The use of anti-inflammatory nutritional supplementation that includes omega-3 essential fatty acids, vitamin D3, and circulation as well as limiting the intake of white sugars could also help.

Chiropractors can provide many treatments which help with post concussive syndrome. This includes a combination of manual therapies, massage therapy, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, exercise training, diet nutritional counseling, and many more. Come see us today if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms.

If you are suffering in pain, we can help. Through chiropractic, physical therapy and other treatment options, we have many options to help you. Schedule an appointment today or call us (908) 325-3000

Dr David Perna DC, CCSP, CCEP

Dr. David Perna DC, CCSP, CCEP is the founder and practice overseer at Back and Body Pain Relief in Springfield, NJ. A graduate of Life University Summa Cum Laude, Dr. Perna holds certifications in Active Release Technique (ART), Graston, SFMA, Neuro-Diagnostics (NCV/EMG), and Manipulation Under Anesthesia, among others. He is a Board Certified Sports Physician, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and a United States Olympic Committee Sports Medicine Volunteer.

A competing athlete himself — a 2x Ironman 70.3 finisher with a background in Olympic weightlifting, CrossFit, and martial arts – Dr. Perna brings firsthand athletic experience to his patient care.

He has treated presidents, royalty, diplomats, and professional athletes across MMA, baseball, tennis, and football, and has appeared on Dr. Oz demonstrating chiropractic therapies. His approach is diagnostic-first, combining evidence-based chiropractic care with rehabilitation to help patients get out of pain and back to full function.