Concussion Relief Protocol in Holmen, WI
We support patients with concussion related symptoms using precise Gonstead chiropractic care and guided protocols. Located in Holmen, WI, Dr. Chad Updike brings sports experience as lead chiropractor for the Holmen High School football, emphasizing detailed evaluation and step by step protocol for head injury recovery.
Understanding Concussion Symptoms
A concussion isn’t just a headache. When the brain experiences sudden acceleration or impact forces, the effects can ripple through cognitive function, balance, vision, and the cervical spine, often in ways that aren’t immediately obvious. Symptoms may appear right away or develop over the hours and days following the injury, which is why prompt evaluation matters even when someone feels mostly fine at first.
- Head pressure or sensitivity following impact
- Balance, dizziness, or coordination challenges
- Neck stiffness from whiplash forces
- Difficulty focusing, mental fog, or memory concerns
- Fatigue that worsens with activity or screen time
Gonstead Approach to Concussion Care
The Gonstead System gives Dr. Chad the tools to assess the upper cervical spine and cranio-cervical junction, the area most directly affected by the forces involved in a head injury. Rather than a generalized approach, each evaluation is precise, gentle, and guided by what the analysis actually reveals.
- Upper cervical junction assessment
- Gentle palpation of suboccipital muscles and surrounding tissue
- Instrumentation to identify thermal and neurological patterns in the head and neck
- Careful posture and structural analysis following impact
- Protocols designed specifically for the acute phase of head injury recovery
Laser Therapy for Concussion Recovery
Low-level laser therapy (also known as photobiomodulation) is a non-invasive approach that may support concussion recovery by promoting healing at the cellular level. Research suggests that specific wavelengths of light can penetrate the skull and stimulate brain tissue, helping improve cellular energy production (ATP), reduce inflammation, and support blood flow to affected areas.
Clinical studies have shown potential improvements in brain connectivity during early recovery stages, along with benefits in symptoms such as headaches, sleep quality, and cognitive function.
This therapy works in part by stimulating mitochondrial activity (including cytochrome c oxidase), which plays a key role in tissue repair and reducing oxidative stress after injury.
Concussion Care at Leading Edge
Concussion recovery requires a careful, step by step approach and Dr. Chad’s advanced training in concussion management means patients in Holmen have access to structured evaluation and return to activity protocols right here at Leading Edge.
- Advanced concussion evaluation and monitoring
- Cervical care to address the spinal component of head injuries
- A guided return to play or return to activity protocol
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Frequently asked questions
1. What is a concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or impact to the head that disrupts normal brain function. Effects can be physical, cognitive, and emotional – which is why thorough evaluation after any suspected head injury is important, even when symptoms seem minor.
2. Can chiropractors help with concussion recovery?
Chiropractic care can play a meaningful supportive role in concussion recovery, particularly when cervical spine dysfunction is contributing to symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, or dizziness. Dr. Chad will evaluate your specific situation and be straightforward about whether and how chiropractic fits into your recovery plan.
3. How long does concussion recovery take?
Recovery timelines vary depending on injury severity, age, overall health, and how quickly care begins. Some patients recover within a few weeks while others take longer – especially if the cervical component of the injury goes unaddressed. Dr. Chad will monitor your progress and adjust the approach as you heal.
4. When should I seek care after a possible concussion?
As soon as possible. Early evaluation allows for appropriate monitoring, helps establish a baseline, and gets the right protocols in place before symptoms have a chance to compound. If you or your athlete took a significant hit, don’t wait to see how it feels in a few days.
5. Should I rest completely after a concussion?
Complete rest is no longer the standard recommendation for most concussion cases. Current protocols emphasize relative rest followed by a gradual, structured return to activity – with each step guided by how symptoms respond. Dr. Chad works collaboratively with other providers involved in your care to make sure the chiropractic piece fits appropriately within the broader plan.