What role can low level laser therapy (LLLT) and acupuncture both play in concussion recovery?
Acupuncture is often recommended as a non-pharmacological therapy for chronic post-concussion headaches and symptoms. When starting treatment with my patients I don’t focus on fixing the concussion itself but rather the symptoms involved with the trauma such as:
- Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
- Dizziness or “seeing stars”
- Ringing in the ears
The above symptoms generally respond well to a combination of acupuncture, soft tissue work and LLLT. An overall protective response is thought to occur with repeated light treatments. In addition to increasing cerebral blood flow, some researchers believe these light treatments reduce the oxidative damage and chronic inflammation that occurs in the brain after a concussion. The hypothesis is that the cause of post-concussion syndrome is due to compromised cervical spinal fluid flow which interferes with the function and healing process.
Acupuncture can be used as a therapeutic intervention and can reduce the risk of cervicogenic headaches developing into chronic post-concussion headaches.
These treatment programs are patient specific and should be implemented once a thorough assessment is done starting from the initial intake.
*It is recommended that all rehabilitation plans are coordinated with the primary physician who is overseeing the care of the patient.
I get great satisfaction offering relief from post-concussion symptoms. Please tell your family and friends to schedule a 15 minute Q&A with me to find out if I can help them find pain relief naturally. Or book you initial consultation and treatment to get out of pain today.
