What is post-concussion syndrome?
In this article, we take a look at post-concussion syndrome.
This condition can happen after you have suffered a concussion and has a range of symptoms.
Let’s take a closer look at the syndrome and find out how you can treat it the gentle way.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a mild brain injury that follows a blow or a bump to the head or to the body, which causes the head and brain to move around, damaging the brain cells.
Symptoms of a concussion include:
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
- Anxiety
Usually these symptoms go away after a maximum period of three months and the patient is able to resume their normal activities.
What is post-concussion syndrome?
If your concussion symptoms don’t resolve after a few months, you should consult your doctor. They may diagnose you with post-concussion syndrome (1), also known as post-concussive syndrome, which refers to having persistent symptoms associated with concussion.
This can be debilitating for the patient, preventing them from getting on with their everyday life.
You are more likely to experience post-concussion syndrome if:
- You are female
- You have had a concussion before
- You have mental health issues
- Your personal circumstances are stressful
How to treat post-concussion syndrome
Living with post-concussion syndrome can be a challenge, but know that there are some simple steps you can take to aid your recovery.
While there is no single treatment for the syndrome, you may find relief from the following:
- Discussing anti-anxiety medication with your doctor
- Counselling
- Physical rest
- Working on your emotional well-being with the help of meditation, mindfulness or taking part in an activity you enjoy
- Resuming light activities when you feel able and slowly building up to more strenuous tasks
Post-concussion syndrome osteopathy
You may also want to try osteopathy for post-concussion syndrome. Osteopathy is a gentle therapy that works on manipulating the musculoskeletal system to bring relief from symptoms.
For post-concussion syndrome, your osteopath may recommend a treatment plan that includes manual treatment to relieve tension, training to restore your sense of balance and advice on exercise and stress management.
Your treatment plan will be personalized to your individual needs with the aim of enabling a gradual return to your normal life.
Don’t suffer in silence with post-concussion syndrome
There’s no need to suffer in silence with post-concussion syndrome.
Give us a call at 403-814-0404, or book an appointment with us online at osteohealthcalgary.janeapp.com to find out how osteopathy can relieve your symptoms and help you return to your fulfilled and active life!
Approved by Indira Ravaeva. Manual Osteopath. Member of National Manual Osteopathic Society and Osteopathy Australia.
References
1. Mayo Clinic website, ‘Persistent post-concussive symptoms (Post-concussion syndrome),’ October 6, 2020.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-concussion-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353352
Also used in research but not referenced in the article:
Healthline website, ‘Post-Concussion Syndrome,’ August 28, 2019.
https://www.healthline.com/health/post-concussion-syndrome