Post-Concussion Syndrome: The Role of the Upper Cervical Spine

Concussion, Head Trauma, Headache, Head Pain, Post-Concussion Syndrome, Post Concussion Syndrome, Post - Concussion Syndrome, Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, MTBJPost-concussion syndrome (PCS) has come into the spotlight more in the past year. As research continues to show how concussions produce lasting effects, more researchers are exploring the underlying cause of PCS. One study looked specifically at the role of the cervical spine when it comes to PCS.

A concussion is usually sustained when a person is in a car accident or suffers a sports injury. However, there are many other ways to end up with a PCS that are not as obvious. For example:

  • Slip and fall – An accident does not have to be severe to result in PCS.
  • Whiplash – Any time the neck is whipped fast enough to causes a whiplash injury, there is the potential for a concussion as well.
  • Being violently shaken – The head does not have to be struck for a head trauma to occur. The head just needs to shake fast enough for the brain to strike the inside of the skull.

What are some of the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome?

  • Concentration problems
  • Headaches
  • Vertigo
  • Nausea
  • Memory issues
  • Balance problems

Why the Neck Connection to Post-Concussion Syndrome Is Important

Recognizing how neck injuries play a role in PCS problems is vital because it shows that the underlying problem may be the neck misalignments caused while the head injury was sustained and not necessarily the concussion itself resulting in the symptoms. Once this is acknowledged, different methods of seeking relief become available.

An upper cervical misalignment can result in numerous issues such as increased pressure in the brainstem, pooling cerebrospinal fluid, or even reduced blood flow to the brain. A gentle upper cervical adjustment can correct the misalignment and these underlying issues. For many, this has led to a lessening or even complete resolution of symptoms.

References:

Ferri, Fred MD. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor, 2012 ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby; 2012.

Marshall C, Vernon H, Leddy J, Baldwin B. The role of the cervical spine in post-concussion syndrome. https://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00913847.2015.1064301 (accessed 09 July 2015).

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If you are outside of the local area you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.

Dr. Chris Perkins Chiropractor Farmington Hills Mi.

Meet Dr. Christopher Perkins

Dr. Perkins grew up in Novi, Michigan and attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. He received his Doctorate Magna Cum Laude with a focus on Upper Cervical Chiropractic care. Chris is well known in the community for his public speaking and holds a number of professional certifications. We are proud to say that Dr. Perkins and Perkins Family Wellness has been recognized by Hour Magazine as one of the Top Chiropractors in Metro Detroit  for 3 years in row.

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REAL RESULTS

"After 30 plus years of almost daily headaches and increasing severe debilitating migraines, I am pain free. I had tried everything, including 3 different chiropractors, medical tests, food allergy tests, special prism glasses, massage, etc. Dr. Perkins was a life changer for sure. Thanks to Dr. Perkins, I now know what it is like to live without pain. For someone with my headache history, this is a miracle"... Kathy Hiatt
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At Premier Family Wellness & Spinal Care in Farmington, MI will not only help you get well, but also stay well.

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