A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can occur following a direct or indirect impact to the head or body.
The same forces that cause a concussion can also place stress on the neck. This means that, in some people, a concussion and a cervical spine injury may occur at the same time.
Why does the neck matter after a concussion?
Some of the symptoms commonly experienced after concussion can also be associated with injury or dysfunction involving the neck.
These may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- neck pain or stiffness
- balance disturbance
- visual disturbance
- reduced neck movement
This overlap can make it difficult to determine what is contributing to ongoing symptoms based on symptoms alone.
Current concussion guidelines recognise the importance of assessing the cervical spine, vestibular system and other potential contributors when symptoms persist.
Research also continues to identify changes in cervical movement and sensorimotor function in some people following concussion.
So, where are your symptoms coming from?
It may not be a case of concussion or neck injury.
Both can occur together, and different systems may contribute to symptoms such as headache, dizziness or balance problems.
A thorough assessment can help determine whether there are musculoskeletal findings involving the neck that may need to be considered as part of your overall recovery.
Where does chiropractic fit?
Chiropractors assess and manage musculoskeletal conditions, including those involving the cervical spine.
If you have experienced a concussion, appropriate medical assessment is important. Chiropractic care is not a replacement for concussion diagnosis or medical management.
Where clinically appropriate, your chiropractor may assess neck movement, joint and muscle function and other musculoskeletal factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.
If your presentation requires further investigation or care outside our scope, we will refer you to an appropriate health professional.
Important
If you have sustained a recent head injury or suspect a concussion, seek appropriate medical assessment.
Urgent medical attention is required if you experience concerning symptoms such as worsening severe headache, repeated vomiting, seizure, increasing confusion or drowsiness, weakness or numbness, loss of consciousness or significant neck pain following injury.
Current research
The 2023 International Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport recommends cervicovestibular rehabilitation for people experiencing persistent dizziness, neck pain and/or headaches following concussion.
More recent research published in 2024 has also identified cervical spine mobility and sensorimotor changes in some people following concussion, reinforcing the importance of considering the neck as part of a comprehensive assessment.
References
Patricios JS, et al. Consensus statement on concussion in sport: the 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport – Amsterdam, October 2022. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2023;57:695–711.
Kinney AET, et al. Cervical spine sensorimotor deficits persist in people post-concussion with near resolution of symptoms. 2024.
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