Concussion
Recovering From a Concussion Takes More Than Rest
A concussion can affect far more than your head. Many people experience headaches, dizziness, neck pain, fatigue, balance problems, or difficulty concentrating long after the initial injury.In many cases, the same force that causes a concussion also strains the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the neck. Those injuries can continue contributing to symptoms even as the brain begins to heal.
At Bilan Chiropractic, we evaluate the musculoskeletal side of concussion recovery and determine whether chiropractic care may be an appropriate part of your overall treatment plan.
Could a Concussion Be Contributing to Your Symptoms?
Common symptoms may include:- Headaches
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Dizziness
- Balance problems
- Light or sound sensitivity
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reduced neck movement
- Muscle tension
- Feeling "off"
What's Actually Happening?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a sudden force that disrupts normal brain function.At the same time, the neck often experiences a whiplash-type injury. Because the brain, inner ear, eyes, and cervical spine all work together to maintain balance and movement, dysfunction in the neck may contribute to lingering physical symptoms for some people.
Understanding which symptoms may be coming from the neck-and which require ongoing medical management-is an important part of recovery.
How We Think About Concussions
Our goal isn't to treat the brain injury itself.Our role is to determine whether musculoskeletal dysfunction-particularly in the cervical spine-is contributing to ongoing symptoms such as neck pain, headaches, or reduced mobility.
We work alongside your physician, athletic trainer, neurologist, or other healthcare providers when appropriate to support a safe, coordinated recovery.
How We Evaluate Concussion-Related Symptoms
Before recommending treatment, we perform a careful evaluation that may include:- Detailed injury history
- Cervical spine assessment
- Neck mobility testing
- Posture evaluation
- Balance and coordination screening
- Orthopedic and neurological examination
- Functional movement assessment
Your Personalized Care Plan
If chiropractic care is appropriate, your treatment plan may include:- Gentle chiropractic adjustments
- Cervical spine mobilization
- Soft tissue therapy
- Mobility and flexibility exercises
- Balance and movement rehabilitation
- Postural correction
- Home exercises
Why Patients Choose Bilan
Concussion recovery isn't one-size-fits-all.We understand that lingering symptoms may involve both the brain and the musculoskeletal system. By carefully evaluating the neck and surrounding structures, we help determine whether chiropractic care may support your physical recovery while working alongside your broader healthcare team.
Can chiropractic care treat a concussion?
A. No. Chiropractic care does not treat or cure a concussion. It may help address musculoskeletal symptoms-such as neck pain or restricted movement-that can occur alongside a concussion when appropriate.
Why does my neck hurt after a concussion?
A. The same force that causes a concussion often strains the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the neck, which may contribute to headaches, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
When should I seek emergency care?
A. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience worsening headaches, repeated vomiting, seizures, increasing confusion, weakness, slurred speech, or loss of consciousness.
Can athletes receive chiropractic care after a concussion?
A. Yes, when medically appropriate and as part of a coordinated recovery plan. Return-to-play decisions should always follow current concussion management guidelines.
Will I need other healthcare providers?
A. Often, yes. Depending on your symptoms, your care may involve your primary care physician, neurologist, sports medicine provider, physical therapist, or other specialists.