23/09/2024
Diagnosing Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
As a sports chiropractor I treat many athletes who have suffered one or multiple concussions as well as auto trauma cases. It is very important to diagnose these cases early and properly. In the past sports like soccer were not as obviously suspect like football but the data shows these athletes are just at risk. Parents, please don’t ignore these seeming minor hits.
Chiropractors can play a crucial role in managing and supporting patients with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). As gatekeepers in the healthcare system, they are often one of the first points of contact for individuals suffering from musculoskeletal issues post-TBI, such as neck pain or spine misalignments, which can have cascading effects on brain health.
Traumatic brain injury, typically caused by sudden trauma such as a blow to the head or whiplash from an accident, can result in both immediate and long-term health issues. These injuries often include cognitive deficits, memory loss, and physical challenges. However, less obvious symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and postural imbalance can persist for months or even years following the initial injury. Chiropractors, with their expertise in the spine, nervous system, and neuromuscular rehabilitation, are uniquely positioned to help manage these secondary symptoms.
One key area where chiropractors excel is in addressing the musculoskeletal aftermath of TBI, particularly whiplash-associated disorders (WAD). Studies have demonstrated a significant overlap between TBI and cervical spine injuries, with cervical trauma exacerbating post-concussion symptoms . Through spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and postural correction, chiropractors can alleviate pain and dysfunction in the neck and spine, reducing the strain on the nervous system and potentially minimizing the severity of post-concussive symptoms .
Moreover, recent research emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach in managing TBI recovery. A study in the *Journal of Neurology* points to the importance of addressing neck pain and balance issues, which often get overlooked in traditional neurological care for TBI patients . Chiropractors are well-suited to identify these biomechanical issues early on and refer patients for further neurological evaluation or rehabilitative therapies when needed. This places them in a vital role as healthcare "gatekeepers," facilitating the timely and appropriate care for patients.
Furthermore, chiropractors can help patients with vestibular rehabilitation, a critical aspect of TBI recovery that targets dizziness and balance disorders. Vestibular issues are commonly seen in TBI patients and have a profound impact on daily functioning. Chiropractic care, especially when combined with other treatments like physical therapy and cognitive rehabilitation, has shown promise in improving these conditions .
In summary, chiropractors are increasingly recognized as essential gatekeepers in the treatment of TBI patients, particularly in managing the physical and neurological sequelae of the injury. By addressing musculoskeletal dysfunction, facilitating recovery, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals, chiropractors help optimize outcomes for TBI patients. As research continues to evolve, the role of chiropractors in the interdisciplinary management of TBI will likely grow, solidifying their position in the front lines of patient care.
**References:**
1. Marchand, A. (2017). Chiropractic management of post-concussion syndrome: a case report and review of the literature. *Journal of Chiropractic Medicine*, 16(3), 193-200.
2. Treleaven, J. (2011). Dizziness, unsteadiness, visual disturbances, and postural control: impairments following cervical spine trauma. *Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy*, 41(4), 255-267.
3. Hynes, L.M., Dickey, J.P., & Campbell, K.R. (2020). Chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for mild traumatic brain injury: A clinical case series. *Brain Injury*, 34(9), 1215-1223.
