Alternative Treatments for Post Concussion Syndrome

I almost didn’t write this post. As a hospital based speech-language pathologist it felt mutinous to write about “alternative therapies!” I strongly believe in traditional medical approaches for concussion management. A multi-disciplinary treatment team can make all the difference in recovery.

I also know that some people respond well to alternative options. I certainly did after my hospital treatment program ended.

There are a lot of different remedies for post concussion syndrome. Today we’re just going to focus on common, evidence-based options.

Alternative Treatments

Dry needling

Dry needling uses a thin needle inserted in muscular trigger points. It’s used to improve pain and movement after injury. It doesn’t usually hurt. You might feel a twinge of discomfort as the needle is inserted. It can also make the muscles twitch.
A certified physical therapist performs dry needling.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture uses a thin needle similar to dry needling. The needle is inserted into specific points along the body’s meridians to help with pain management. A meridian is a pathway where energy is thought to flow. There are 12 pathways associated with different organs.
A certified acupuncturist performs acupuncture.

Massage

Massage may promote relaxation and help with physical symptoms such as muscle tension.
Some people experience an increase in symptoms after a massage so it’s important to talk to your doctor and/or physical therapist before starting. You should also look for a massage therapist experienced with brain injury.

Healthy eating

Healthy eating may improve your recovery trajectory. Certain foods and supplements are thought to help with brain injury symptoms.
A dietitian or nutritionist can provide diet education and recommendations. Your doctor may also make recommendations.

Exercise

Exercise plays an important role in brain injury recovery. Cerebrovascular promoting exercise like jogging or swimming is especially helpful.
It’s important to know that some people demonstrate exercise intolerance after a mild brain injury. They have trouble with blood pressure regulation, headaches, dizziness, etc. A physical therapist can test for exercise intolerance and recommend a safe exercise program.

Yoga

There is a growing body of evidence that gentle yoga can help thinking skills and stress management after brain injury. There are many types of yoga, like chair yoga, that accommodate physical symptoms including pain and dizziness.
Love Your Brain also provides yoga resources specifically for people with brain injuries. Ask your doctor and/or physical therapist about movement restrictions before starting.

Counseling

Besides typical counseling skills, a counselor can teach skills like mindfulness/meditation and progressive relaxation to help with thinking skills and stress management.
Your doctor or rehab team may know a counselor with brain injury experience. You can also call different offices and ask for a counselor with experience.

Alternative Treatments and Cognition

Complementary and alternative therapy is becoming more common for post concussion syndrome. Many of these treatments target physical and emotional symptoms. Physical and emotional symptoms impact cognition, so improvement in these areas may improve thinking skills.

If you are struggling with cognition now and have already tried traditional therapy, adding some complementary/alternative therapy may be beneficial.

There are many strategies that you can use to make life easier in the meantime. Read about top strategies to learn more.

Disclaimer

It’s important to talk to your doctor before trying something new. Some people feel like they have to search for alternative treatments on their own. But, these days many doctors support and even encourage these treatments.

Your doctor may refer you to a trusted provider. Not all providers have experience with brain injury. Your doctor may have a good recommendation for services in your area.

Sources and more information:

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider with questions, and before starting any nutrition, diet, exercise, fitness, medical, or wellness program.