Concussion and Injury Risk: What Athletes Need to Know
Concussion is often associated with short-term symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating. However, emerging research suggests there may be longer-term effects on the body — particularly when it comes to injury risk.
A study titled Concussion May Increase the Risk of Subsequent Lower Extremity Musculoskeletal Injury in Collegiate Athletes explored this connection in more detail. You can read the full study here:
👉 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
One of the key findings from this research was:
“Athletes who suffered a concussion were 3.39 times more likely to sustain a muscle or ligament injury in the following 90 days.”
Why Might Injury Risk Increase After a Concussion?
While concussion primarily affects the brain, it can also influence how the body moves and responds.
After a concussion, some athletes may experience subtle changes in:
Balance and coordination
Reaction time
Spatial awareness
Neuromuscular control
Even once symptoms appear to have resolved, these changes may still be present. This can increase the likelihood of strains, sprains, or other musculoskeletal injuries — particularly in the lower limbs.
The Role of the Nervous System in Movement
Movement is not just about muscles and joints — it is closely linked to how the nervous system communicates with the body.
The brain and nervous system help coordinate balance, timing, and control. Following a concussion, this communication may be temporarily disrupted, which can affect how efficiently the body moves.
This is why a gradual and structured return to activity is so important after a head injury.
Supporting Recovery and Reducing Risk
For athletes across Farnham, Guildford, Fleet, Farnborough, Aldershot, and surrounding Surrey and Hampshire areas, understanding this connection can help support safer recovery.
Key considerations may include:
Following appropriate return-to-play guidelines
Allowing adequate time for recovery
Reintroducing movement gradually
Focusing on balance, coordination, and control
Chiropractors assess movement patterns, joint function, and nervous system health through detailed physical and neurological checks. Care may include supporting joint mobility, addressing muscular tension, and providing guidance on movement and posture.
This approach can form part of a broader strategy aimed at helping the body move more efficiently following injury.
A Holistic Approach to Athlete Health
Whether you are a competitive athlete or someone who enjoys staying active, recovery doesn’t end when symptoms disappear. Supporting how your body moves, adapts, and responds is an important part of reducing future injury risk.
If you are based in Farnham, Churt, Ash, Guildford, Fleet, Farnborough or Aldershot, and have experienced a concussion or recurring injuries, a professional assessment may help identify areas that need support as you return to activity.
With love,
Inga Burmeister, Chiropractor
Disclaimer
The content of this blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to offer personal medical advice. You should seek the advice of a qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
