Mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), also known as concussions, are a common type of head injury that can occur due to various causes, such as falls, car accidents, or sports-related incidents. These injuries can have a significant impact on an individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. At Calibration Chiropractic and Functional Health, we go beyond the traditional scope of addressing musculoskeletal complaints. Our primary focus is on the intricate relationship between body and the brain, particularly how they are impacted by age-related degenerative changes and accidental traumas such as concussions. By leveraging advanced technologies and education in neuroscience, we strive to enhance neurological function and overall well-being, providing our patients with comprehensive care that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying causes of their conditions.
A mTBI is characterized by a temporary disruption in brain function, often resulting in symptoms like headaches, dizziness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. While these injuries are typically less severe than more serious traumatic brain injuries, they should not be overlooked, as they can still have long-lasting effects on an individual's daily life. If not treated, deficits in brain function can deteriorate over time.
The signs and symptoms of an mTBI (concussion) can vary from person to person, but some common indicators include:
Physical symptoms:
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue or brain fog
Blurred vision
Sensitivity to light or sound
Cognitive symptoms:
Difficulty concentrating or focusing
Memory problems
Confusion
Slowed processing speed
Emotional/behavioral symptoms:
Irritability
Mood changes
Anxiety or depression
Difficulty sleeping
These symptoms may not appear immediately after the injury and can sometimes develop over time. If you or someone you know has experienced a head injury, it is crucial to monitor for these signs and seek help promptly.
Integrative care is a promising approach in the management and rehabilitation of mild traumatic brain injuries. With a master's degree in Functional Neurology and a Doctorate in Chiropractic, Dr. Joe Adams and his team take a comprehensive approach to managing the complex nature of mTBIs.
The first step to recovering from a mTBI is getting a thorough history and neurological exam, looking for differences in brain function, understanding what the goals are for each patient. The next would be to run tests that can determine where and how badly the brain has been affected. Given that eye movements are closely linked to brain function, this is the first area we assess. In our office, we utilize advanced technology like RightEye to evaluate functional eye movements. With years of experience treating mTBIs, post-concussion syndromes, and whiplash, we have developed a rehabilitation protocol that can be customized to the patient's specific needs.
One of the first things we need to do is alleviate tension and pressure in the neck and shoulders (which leads to headaches), which can be caused by the trauma of a mTBI. This is done by introducing chiropractic adjustments (often with gentle instruments in the beginning) as well as soft tissue therapy. Techniques such as myofascial release, and trigger point therapy are widely used in our treatment plans.
The next step is to enhance an individual's dynamic vision, balance and coordination which may be compromised due to vestibular and proprioceptive changes caused by an mTBI. Our team conducts all neurological rehabilitation in-office to closely monitor progress, address symptoms, and make immediate adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. Every two weeks, we perform reassessments to keep challenging the brain and work to restore normal function. This approach leverages the concept of neuroplasticity: the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. By continuously challenging the brain, we stimulate its capacity to recover and improve the symptoms of a concussion.
At Calibration Chiropractic and Functional Health, we address the physical, cognitive, and emotional aspects of mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) to help individuals achieve better outcomes and regain their quality of life.
If you or a loved one have experienced a mild traumatic brain injury, consider the benefits of chiropractic care. Contact Calibration Chiropractic + Functional Health to learn more about how we can help you on your journey to recovery and improved well-being. Visit our office in Mansfield, Texas, or call (817) 779-3435 to book an appointment today.