The Link Between Neck Pain And PCS

If you have just sustained a head injury or concussion, you are likely experiencing a number of uncomfortable symptoms. From headaches, brain fog, vertigo, and memory issues, a concussion can leave you feeling less than great for quite a while. What many people don’t know how about is the link between neck pain and post-concussion syndrome.





Studies have shown that most concussions deliver 95 g’s of force, while it can take less than 10 g’s of force to damage important ligaments in your neck. The overwhelming majority of people who suffer concussions will experience neck pain and other neck issues. In many cases these symptoms can be very similar to Post-Concussion Syndrome symptoms, leading to confusion and misdiagnosis. Recent research has identified Cervicogenic Post-concussion Syndrome (CPCS), which is similar to Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) but with symptoms caused by damage in the neck.




Prevention


The only known way to prevent the development of persistent post-concussive symptoms is to avoid the head injury in the first place.



Avoiding head injuries


Although you can't prepare for every potential situation, here are some tips for avoiding common causes of head injuries:


Fasten your seat belt whenever you're traveling in a car, and be sure children are in age-appropriate safety seats. Children under 13 are safest riding in the back seat, especially if your car has air bags.


Use helmets whenever you or your children are bicycling, roller-skating, in-line skating, ice-skating, skiing, snowboarding, playing football, batting or running the bases in softball or baseball, skateboarding, or horseback riding. Wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.


Take action at home to prevent falls, such as removing small area rugs, improving lighting and installing handrails.




Diagnosis


No single test will prove you have persistent post-concussive symptoms. Your doctor may want to order a scan of your brain to check for other potential problems that could be causing your symptoms. A computerized tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to detect structural brain abnormalities.


If you're experiencing a lot of dizziness, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in ear, nose and throat complaints. A referral to a psychologist or licensed counselor may be in order if your symptoms include anxiety or depression, or if you're having problems with memory or problem-solving.





An emergency room doctor often makes the initial diagnosis of a concussion. Once discharged, you may seek care from your family doctor or primary doctor. He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in brain and nervous system disorders (neurologist) or a brain rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist).bIf you are referred to a specialist, it's a good idea to be well prepared for your appointment. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment and know what to expect from your doctor.



What you can do


Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.


Write down key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.


Make a list of all medications, vitamins or supplements that you're taking.


Ask a family member or friend to go with you, if possible. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember all of the information provided to you during an appointment. Someone who accompanies you may remember something that you missed or forgot.


Write down questions to ask your doctor.

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