Concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can have significant effects on an individual’s health, affecting everything from cognitive function to physical well-being. With football season upon us, growing awareness about the importance of proper concussion management is essential. Rest isn’t the only treatment option that assists in supporting the healing process. In this blog we will explore the nature of concussions, the healing process, and the benefits of osteopathic care in treating this common injury.
A concussion occurs when a blow or jolt to the head causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull, potentially disrupting brain function. While most concussions are classified as mild and resolve within a few weeks, some individuals experience lingering symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating. If untreated or improperly managed, concussions or repetitive trauma can lead to long-term complications, making it crucial to pursue effective treatment and rehabilitation.
Concussions typically trigger an inflammatory response in the brain, which can affect its normal functioning. In the immediate aftermath, rest is often recommended, with a gradual return to activity once symptoms begin to subside. However, research has shown that healing is not merely about resting but also addressing the physical and neurological imbalances caused by the injury. This is where osteopathic treatment can make a difference.
Osteopathy emphasises the interrelationship between the body’s structure and function, with a focus on the musculoskeletal system’s role in supporting overall health. Osteopath’s use a variety of hands-on techniques to improve blood flow, relieve tension, and promote the body’s innate healing abilities. These methods can be beneficial in treating concussions by addressing secondary issues like musculoskeletal imbalances, poor circulation, and nerve compression that may arise during the recovery process.
Osteopathic manipulation when used in the post-acute stage of treatment can assist in musculoskeletal imbalances and integrity of movement. It involves hands-on techniques, such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resisted movements, to address musculoskeletal issues and support the body’s healing processes. For concussion patients, this can help improve circulation to the brain, alleviate tension in the neck and upper back, and promote relaxation, all of which are essential for recovery.
Several studies support the use of Osteopathy Manipulative Therapy (OMT) in concussion recovery. A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association (JAOA) found that OMT helped alleviate symptoms in patients suffering from post-concussion syndrome (PCS), a condition where symptoms persist long after the injury. The study revealed that patients who received OMT showed improved neck mobility, reduced headache frequency, and overall better symptom management compared to those who did not receive osteopathic care.(1)
Chronic stress is a common consequence of concussions, particularly when symptoms persist. Osteopathic care often includes techniques that reduce overall body stress, such as relaxation exercises, massage, and breathwork. Managing stress is critical to concussion recovery, as prolonged stress can exacerbate inflammation and slow the healing process. Osteopathic treatments can promote the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s “rest and digest” system), thereby helping to mitigate the impact of stress on recovery.
The role of osteopathic treatment in concussion recovery has gained traction in recent years, thanks to growing scientific evidence supporting its benefits.
A 2016 study published in JAMA Neurology investigated the use of osteopathic manipulation in patients with chronic symptoms of post-concussion syndrome. The researchers found that osteopathic care led to significant reductions in headache frequency, pain intensity, and overall symptoms. This evidence suggests that osteopathic treatment may be a promising option for improving quality of life in individuals suffering from lingering concussion effects.(2)
Additionally, a 2020 systematic review in The Journal of Headache and Pain examined the role of manual therapies, including osteopathic treatments, in managing headache disorders associated with concussion. The review found moderate evidence that manual therapies, particularly those targeting the neck and upper spine, may help alleviate post-concussion headaches, a common and debilitating symptom. (3)
While concussions can be devastating, osteopathic treatment provides a holistic approach to healing that can support recovery and minimise lingering symptoms. By focusing on musculoskeletal alignment, circulation, and stress reduction, osteopaths offer an additional layer of care for concussion patients. Though more research is needed to fully understand the extent of its benefits, the existing evidence suggests that osteopathic care, particularly when integrated with conventional concussion management strategies, may accelerate the healing process and improve overall outcomes for patients.
If you or someone you know is recovering from a concussion, it may be worth considering an osteopathic evaluation as part of a comprehensive recovery plan. As always, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment approach for your individual needs.
CSSM Osteopath Daniel Skaer has a fascination with the science behind the human body and a passion for helping people achieve quality of life.
“The complexity in the human body won’t adapt to change unless you create a change,” he says. “Treating injuries for their causing agents can become a preventative rather than a band-aid approach.”
Daniel is a strong believer in Osteopathy’s philosophy of treating the body as a whole, rather than simply treating the dysfunctional region. “No two patients are the same, which is why it’s so important to work with each patient to create a tailored management plan, empowering them through education and support.”
He prides himself on his ability to communicate and comfort every individual that may find seeking an Osteopath daunting as well as educating patients to help them achieve their goals.
Daniel has a specific interest in chronic pain management, hypermobility dysfunctions and structural strength assistance and uses a range of techniques including soft tissue, manipulation and mobilisation techniques.
(1)Baltazar GA, Kolwitz C, Petrone P, Stright A, Joseph D. Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Relieves Post-concussion Symptoms in a Case of Polytrauma. Cureus. 2020 Mar 18;12(3):e7317. doi: 10.7759/cureus.7317. PMID: 32313758; PMCID: PMC7164692.
(2) Esterov D, Thomas A, Weiss K. Osteopathic manipulative medicine in the management of headaches associated with postconcussion syndrome. J Osteopath Med. 2021 Apr 9;121(7):651-656. doi: 10.1515/jom-2020-0035. PMID: 33831981.
(3) Pillai S, Zhang N. The Role of Manual Therapies in the Treatment of Headache Disorders. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2023 Aug;23(8):399-405. doi: 10.1007/s11910-023-01279-x. Epub 2023 Jun 24. PMID: 37354308.
Sort Practitioners by Name
(03) 9889 1078
Open 7 days