When it comes to understanding and treating concussions, the latest episode of my podcast “Your Lifestyle is Your Medicine” offers an enlightening perspective on a subject that affects millions each year.

I recently interviewed Dr. Perry Mayard, a board-certified chiropractic neurologist, in episode 36 of the podcast. We unravel the complexities of concussions and post-concussive syndrome; his expertise emphasizes the need for a clear understanding of this mechanism for proper diagnosis and management. In this article, I want to share some of the nuggets that we discussed.

The Definition of a Concussion

A concussion is a brain injury that occurs when a force is transmitted to the body, whether it be the head or another part of the body. The brain, which sits inside the skull surrounded by cerebral spinal fluid, can experience a movement or sloshing effect when a force is transmitted to the body. This movement can lead to the stretching of high-speed connections in the brain, resulting in a concussion. It is important to note that a concussion can occur without a direct hit to the head. Force transmitted to other parts of the body can still cause a concussion. This is something to be aware of in both sports and life when you don’t directly hit your head but still have symptoms of a concussion. 

Diagnosing a Concussion

In the acute setting, such as sports-related concussions, a concussion can be diagnosed using a sports concussion assessment tool like SCAT (Sports Concussion Assessment Tool). This tool includes assessments for levels of consciousness, neck fractures, brain bleeds, visual tracking, inner ear function, balance, and cognitive function. In the chronic setting, where patients present with symptoms months or years after a concussion, a more detailed evaluation is required. Neurologists will use a host of different assessments such as;r visual tracking, balance, inner ear function, and cognitive function can help diagnose the type and severity of a concussion.

Treatment Options for Concussions and Dizziness

The treatment for concussions and dizziness varies depending on the specific symptoms and underlying causes.
Concussions have different subtypes which all present with different symptoms and need different approaches for rehabilitation. 

• Classic Concussion: This subtype involves the typical symptoms of concussion, such as headache, or migraines, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, and sensitivity to light and noise. 
• Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS): PCS refers to a condition where concussion symptoms persist for weeks or months after the initial injury. Symptoms may include persistent headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, irritability, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms that don’t seem related to the initial injury
• Vestibular Concussion: This subtype involves symptoms related to the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation. Symptoms may include dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and difficulty with coordination.
• Ocular Concussion: In ocular concussion, symptoms primarily affect vision. This may include blurred vision, double vision, difficulty focusing, and sensitivity to light.
• Emotional/Behavioral Concussion: Some individuals may experience changes in mood, behavior, or emotional regulation following a concussion. Symptoms may include irritability, depression, anxiety, mood swings, and difficulty with impulse control.
• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): While not an immediate subtype, repeated concussions over time, especially in contact sports or high-risk occupations, can lead to the development of CTE, a progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with symptoms such as memory loss, cognitive decline, behavioral changes, and movement disorders. This is a concern with most combat and impact sports. 

Treatment approaches:

1. Vision Therapy: focuses on improving eye movement and coordination. It can help individuals with visual tracking issues, ocular motor deficits, and visual perception problems. This therapy aims to retrain the eyes and improve their ability to focus and process visual information.
2. Vestibular Rehabilitation: This is used to address issues related to the inner ear and balance. It can help individuals with dizziness, vertigo, and disequilibrium. This therapy involves exercises and techniques to improve balance, coordination, and the brain’s ability to process vestibular information.
3. Cervical Manipulation: also known as neck manipulation, focuses on addressing neck issues that may contribute to dizziness. By improving the function and mobility of the neck, this therapy can help alleviate symptoms related to cervical proprioception, which is the brain’s ability to perceive the position of the neck and head in space.
4. Other Treatment Options: for concussions and dizziness include cognitive behavioral therapy, neural feedback, and supplementation with nutrients like creatine, fish oil, and magnesium. These interventions aim to support brain function, reduce inflammation, and mitigate symptoms associated with concussions and dizziness.

I know from personal experience and from treating patients for 20 years that concussions and dizziness can have a significant impact on an individual’s well-being and daily functioning. I still think I can’t speak French because of all the rugby I used to play…that’s my excuse anyway.

It’s crucial to understand the definition of a concussion, how concussions are diagnosed, and the available treatment options. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms related to concussions or dizziness, it is essential to seek professional evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Watch the full interview below or listen to it HERE via your favorite blog service. 

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