Post concussion syndrome
Head Injury treatment London: What is Post Concussion Syndrome:
Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) is a condition that manifests after a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury. While most individuals recover within weeks, PCS involves persistent symptoms that endure beyond the expected healing period. Common indicators include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, memory issues, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but factors like altered blood flow and neurotransmitter imbalances may contribute. Management often involves rest, cognitive therapies, and medications followed by a planned return to sport and work. PCS poses challenges to daily life, emphasising the need for comprehensive care and therapies like osteopathy to address both symptoms and underlying imbalances alongside medical conservative management.
How Osteopathy Can Help in Post-Concussion Syndrome:
Head injury treatment London based: Osteopathy alongside a plan from a consultant or neurologist can help relieve of post concussion symptoms. Here are a few ways it can help:
Cranial Osteopathy for Brain Health: Cranial osteopathy, a specialized form of osteopathic treatment, focuses on the subtle movements of the skull and its impact on the central nervous system. Osteopaths use gentle manipulations to restore balance in the cranial bones, potentially alleviating restrictions and optimizing cerebrospinal fluid flow. This approach aims to support overall brain health and mitigate symptoms associated with post-concussion syndrome.
Addressing Musculoskeletal Imbalances: Concussions can impact not only the brain but also the musculoskeletal system. Osteopathy considers the entire body as a unit, and osteopaths may address any musculoskeletal imbalances that have developed as a result of altered movement patterns or compensations during the recovery period.
Improving Blood Flow and Lymphatic Drainage: Osteopathic techniques can enhance blood flow and lymphatic drainage, supporting the body's natural mechanisms for healing. Improved circulation may contribute to reducing inflammation and promoting the removal of waste products from the affected tissues.
Balancing the Autonomic Nervous System: Osteopathy recognizes the significance of the autonomic nervous system in regulating bodily functions. Osteopathic interventions aim to balance the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system, potentially alleviating symptoms such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood swings commonly associated with post-concussion syndrome.
Individualised Care and Patient Empowerment: Osteopathic care is inherently patient-centered. Osteopaths work closely with individuals to understand their unique experiences and challenges. By fostering a partnership between the practitioner and the patient, osteopathy empowers individuals to actively participate in their healing journey.
Conclusion:
Post-Concussion Syndrome can cast a long shadow on the lives of those affected, but within that shadow lies the potential for healing and restoration. Osteopathy, with its gentle yet profound approach, offers a ray of light by addressing the intricate web of connections within the body. As individuals navigate the complexities of post-concussion syndrome, considering osteopathy as a complementary therapeutic option may provide a pathway towards not only symptom relief but also a more profound sense of well-being and resilience on the journey to recovery. It is important to be followed by a neurologist or specialist alongside osteopathic treatment.
If you suffer from post concussion syndrome, get in touch with us for a consultation and hear how was can help you! For head injury treatment London, get in touch via email at lilou.osteopath@outlook.com, book here or visit our website www.highburyosteopathyclinic.com
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-concussion-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353352
https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/concussion/index.html
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30242340/
