Concussions (TBI)
Dr. Michael Vennell is a Chiropractor practicing in Amarillo, TX. Dr. Vennell specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions associated with the neuromusculoskeletal system, while improving each patients functionality and quality of life. Conditions treated include sciatica, neck pain, and arthritis pain,... more
What is a concussion or traumatic brain injury? Usually caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that disrupts the normal function of the brain. The severity of a TBI may range from mild (brief change in mental status or consciousness) to severe (an extended period of unconsciousness or memory loss after the injury). Most TBI that occur each year are mild, commonly called concussion. 5 of 10 TBI go unreported or undetected. 2 in 10 high-school athletes who play contact sports—including football, soccer, lacrosse, and hockey—will suffer a concussion this year. Girls' soccer see the second-most concussions of all high school sports. Girls' basketball sees the third most.
Just how big is this problem? In 2013 about 2.8 million TBI-related emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and deaths occurred in the U.S. TBI contributed to the deaths of nearly 50,000 people. It was the diagnosis in more than 282,000 hospitalizations and 2.5 million ER visits. In 2012, an estimated 329,290 children (age 19 or younger) were treated in the U.S. ER for sports and recreation-related injuries that included a diagnosis of concussion or TBI.
They are major causes of death and disability in the United States. Concussions contribute to about 30% of all injury deaths. Those who survive TBI can face effects that last a few days, years or even the rest of their lives, if not addressed and treated correctly. Effects of TBI can include, but not limited to, impaired thinking or memory, movement, sensation (vision and hearing), emotional functioning (personality changes, attitude, and depression), appetite, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, migraines, balance and stability issues, speech, and cognition.
This article contains some statistics and facts about concussions and TBI. If this is you or someone you know, contact Spine and Sports Wellness for your full neurological exam. Our website is spineandsportwellnessclinic.com and phone 806-356-7291 or address 3501 Soncy Road Suite 1 Amarillo, TX.
