How do you treat a concussion?
Think you might have a concussion? Check out Part 1 of our Concussion Series: Do I have a concussion?
This post is all about how concussions are treated.
The content in this post is intended for educational purposes only. No information in this post is to be interpreted as medical advice, recommendations, or prescription. If you think you have a concussion, are concerned about your symptoms, or have further questions, make an appointment here, give us a call here, or contact your medical provider.
Picture this…
A few days ago you went over your handlebars at the end of a day of hitting the single tracks on your bike. At first, you felt ok. Some mild neck stiffness, and maybe a mild headache. Since then though, you have been EXHAUSTED. Your neck is still stiff, but the headache is pretty much gone.
You are pretty sure you had a concussion. Should you feel better by now? Is there anything that can make you feel better?
Let’s talk about what to do if you think you have a concussion…
What this article covers:
When to start when treating a concussion
Your different treatment options
Expected recovery time
Not sure if you have a concussion? Check out Part 1 of our Concussion Series: Do I have a concussion?
When should you start treating a concussion?
your options to treat a concussion
Recovery time after a Concussion
How long does it take to recover from a Concussion?
The good news about concussions is that most people fully recover from them completely and in a relatively short amount of time. The tricky part of concussions though, is that you will typically feel better before your brain has healed, which puts you at risk of a second injury with more serious consequences. Every person who experiences a concussion recovers somewhat differently, however, there are a few rules we can use to predict recovery. (2)
Concussion symptoms usually last 7-14 days following the injury
Symptoms often get worse 24-72 hours following a concussion
Those with less severe concussion symptoms are more likely to recover quickly
Symptoms resolve before the brain has recovered
When can I get back to doing what I love?
Despite feeling better within a relatively short amount of time, returning to the activity that caused the concussion in the first place is dangerous. The brain heals slowly and takes about 30 days to recover to baseline for most concussions. (2) As long as your symptoms do not persist or return, in general, you can return to your activity at about 30 days after a concussion without increased risk or permanent or lasting damage. It is, however, recommended that you return to your activity gradually, rather than back to 100% on day one (I am looking at you single track riders).
Will I have symptoms forever?
Most people who experience a concussion fully recover with no residual injuries. If you are experiencing symptoms that last longer than 2 weeks then you need to get a thorough evaluation by someone who knows what they are doing. If you receive proper treatment then most people who have persistent symptoms still experience a full recovery. A portion of patients have persistent symptoms that do not resolve. These people can still experience significant relief with treatment.
When should I go see someone if I think I have a concussion?
So… you went over your handlebars. What now? When should you see someone if you think you have a concussion? I recommend seeing a qualified clinician as soon as possible following an injury if you think you have a concussion. Not only will this help you rule out anything more severe, it will also help you recover FASTER because early interventions with concussions are the key to fast and effective recovery. The ideal timeframe for an evaluation happens within 72 hours of injury.
If you think you have a concussion or someone you know and care about has a concussion, contact me ASAP and we can get you on the road to recovery.
NOTE: If you have severe symptoms (loss of consciousness, vomiting, sustained double vision, passing out) then you need to go to the emergency room as soon as possible.
Summary
Here is the bullet point summary:
Concussions are very common and, while they should be taken seriously, most people completely recover within a short time.
Most common symptoms include headache, neck pain, and dizziness, but anyone who has an injury involving the head and neck should get evaluated
Concussions are diagnosed by a history and a physical exam, in which the primary goal is ruling out a more serious injury
A timely exam and treatment can enhance healing and recovery. Guidance can help decrease the chance of re-injury or persistent symptoms.
Have a question about concussions? Shoot me an email: drmurdoch@basecampclinic.com
For a great video on concussions, check this video from TED: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvjK-4NXRsM
Author: Dr. Mark Murdoch, Chiropractor and Co-Founder at Base Camp Sport and Spine in Vernon, BC.
Mark Murdoch is a Doctor of Chiropractic with a Master’s Degree in Sports Medicine.
Contact: drmurdoch@basecampclinic.com
Instagram: Base.Camp.Doc
References:
Jackson, W. T., & Starling, A. J (2018) Concussion Evaluation and Management. The Medical Clinics of North America.
Vagnozzi et al., 2010.
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