Osteopathic Treatment for Concussions

Concussions. We've probably all had one at some point in our life. Whether it was a nasty tackle in rugby practice, a car accident or an unlucky head knock while fixing the sink. Which you may think, "how could a simple head knock be a concussion?".

Content

What is a concussion

How can osteopathy help?

Common signs and symptoms

How long do symptoms last?

What is a concussion?

A concussion by definition is when the brain bounces or twists inside the skull. Meaning it doesn't have to be some huge episode that leaves you feeling unwell for days. Most concussions happen without the loss of consciousness.

How can osteopathy help?

For years now, osteopathy treatment (OMT) has been highly suggested for aiding in the recovery of concussion. One of the more common techniques used is the compression of the fourth ventricle (CV4) , where the practitioner places their hands in a particular area underneath the patients head while they lie on their back to treat the glyphatics (fancy word for lymphatics in the brain). This is important because, when a concussion occurs it changes the chemicals within your brain and alters the flow of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). The use of this technique has been extensively studied in its manipulation on the CSF, in basic terms, the CV4 technique helps to increase the spinal fluid flow to help clear the altered chemicals, toxins and waste products from the brain that occur after injury.

Treating holistically means that the osteopathic practitioner will treat in different categories. . Are we treating the muscles? The organs? The fluids or something else? This type of concussion treatments falls within the neurological/ circulatory model of osteopathy. Thanks to the highly trained palpation (feeling) skills, honed over many years of study, this type of technique is possible in the treatment of head injuries.

Common signs and symptoms.

You may experience none, or a few depending on the severity of the blow.

• Headache or a feeling of 'pressure' in the head

• Loss of consciousness

• Memory loss

• Neck pain

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Drowsiness or fatigue

• Light sensitivity

How long do symptoms last

Is some instances, full recovery can take up to a year. Getting proper treatment is paramount for managing symptoms and aiding in the recovery you can't necessarily see happening within the brain. Commonly why concussions are referred to as the 'invisible injury'.

Conclusion

Concussions are an extremely common head injury involving a chemical response in the brain. Osteopathy treatment can aid in the recovery by clearing the chemicals and toxins, especially using the CV4 technique.

Book an appointment online with osteopathic practitioner, Georgia Haley to start your concussion treatment.

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References:

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