Concussions are a common injury in sport and daily life — particularly among young athletes, contact sport participants, and people who’ve experienced a fall or motor vehicle accident. While concussion itself is a brain injury, it can also lead to a wide range of physical symptoms that involve the neck, muscles, and nervous system.

At our clinic, we’re often asked: “Can chiropractic help after a concussion?”

Here’s what the evidence says — and how we may be able to help as part of your broader recovery team.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a blow to the head, neck, or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. It doesn't always involve a direct head knock — whiplash-type forces, like those seen in sport or car accidents, can also cause concussion.

The Australian Sports Commission highlights common signs and symptoms of concussion:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Balance problems
  • Neck pain
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering
  • Fatigue
  • Feeling “off” or not quite right

In most cases, symptoms improve within 7–10 days, but some people experience lingering issues known as post-concussion symptoms.



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Where Chiropractic Fits In

While chiropractors do not diagnose or treat brain injuries, they can play a supportive role when musculoskeletal or nervous system symptoms persist after a concussion — particularly those related to the neck and upper spine.

Research shows that neck dysfunction is common after a concussion. This includes:

  • Restricted cervical spine mobility
  • Muscle tightness or guarding
  • Joint irritation
  • Dizziness or headaches linked to neck issues (also called cervicogenic symptoms)

This is where chiropractic may help — by assessing and addressing dysfunction in the cervical spine and surrounding soft tissues, chiropractors can support your body's physical recovery after a concussion.

The image shows a man lying on a treatment table while a person in a white coat gently holds his head, possibly during a medical examination or therapy.

What We Do

Our chiropractors may assist with:

  • Gentle, tailored spinal adjustments to address restricted joint movement (where clinically appropriate)
  • Soft tissue techniques to relieve tension and improve function in the neck and shoulders
  • Postural advice to support spinal health while recovering
  • Collaboration with your GP, physio, or neurologist, as needed, to ensure a safe and coordinated care plan

We always follow evidence-based guidelines and refer out if there are red flags or concerns beyond our scope.

Important Considerations

Concussion should always be taken seriously. If you suspect a concussion, immediate medical assessment is essential.

  • Chiropractic care should only be considered after medical clearance and as part of a multi-disciplinary team approach.
  • Chiropractors do not treat brain injury — but they may help with physical symptoms that persist in the musculoskeletal and vestibular systems.
  • We encourage collaboration with your GP, sports physician, and allied health team to ensure the safest and most effective recovery.

If you or someone you know is recovering from a concussion and still experiencing symptoms like neck pain, headaches, or dizziness, a chiropractic assessment may be beneficial — especially if these symptoms are related to spinal or postural dysfunction.


If you're unsure whether chiropractic care is right for your situation, feel free to contact us for a chat — we’ll always guide you in the safest direction for your recovery.


Disclaimer: This article is for general education only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis and management of concussion or any head injury.

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References:

Shannon, N., Patricios, J. Sports-related concussion: assessing the comprehension, collaboration, and contribution of chiropractors. Chiropr Man Therap 30, 60 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-022-00471-z

Germann, D., Marshall, C., Kazemi, M.  Multi-modal management of sport and non-sport related concussion by chiropractic sports specialists: a case series.  J Can Chiropr Assoc 2020; 64(3). https://chiropractic.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/119476-1_Chiro_64_3h_Germann.pdf

Patel H. THE IMPACT OF CHIROPRACTIC MANAGEMENT ON A 15-YEAR-OLD MALE DIAGNOSED WITH POST-CONCUSSION SYNDROME AND WHIPLASH: A CASE REPORT. JCC. 2020;3(1):80-85. https://journal.parker.edu/article/78084-the-impact-of-chiropractic-management-on-a-15-year-old-male-diagnosed-with-post-concussion-syndrome-and-whiplash-a-case-report


https://www.ausport.gov.au/concussion





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