Concussions are no joke. As someone who has experienced over five concussions during my athletic career, not including one from a car wreck in 2019, I know firsthand the toll they take on the body and mind. Today, I’m diving into what a concussion is, why playing through one (or more) is dangerous, and the lasting effects they can have on an athlete’s life. If you’ve ever doubted whether you should prioritize your healing, let me tell you: your health is more important than the game.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow to the head or body that shakes the brain inside the skull. Symptoms can range from headaches and dizziness to confusion, memory loss, and sensitivity to light or sound. While the severity of symptoms varies, one thing is clear: the brain needs time to heal. Continuing to push through the pain doesn’t show toughness; it’s self-neglect.
Why Playing Through a Concussion Is Dangerous
Athletes often face pressure to keep playing despite injuries. I get it; ball was life for me, too. But playing through a concussion—or worse, multiple concussions, can lead to long-term problems like chronic migraines, memory issues, and even mental health struggles. When you ignore your body’s need to recover, you’re essentially engaging in self-abuse. Trust me, I’ve been there. I lied about my symptoms to stay on the court, thinking that was the only way to keep my dreams alive. But the truth? Neglecting my health only prolonged my suffering and robbed me of the clarity and joy I needed to truly excel.
The Long-Term Effects of Concussions
The consequences of untreated concussions can be life-altering. Some of the lasting effects include:
- Chronic Headaches and Migraines: At one point, I had to be rushed to the hospital multiple times due to debilitating migraines. (That’s a story for another day.)
- Memory and Cognitive Issues: Struggling to focus or remember details is frustrating and can impact your daily life.
- Mental Health Challenges: Anxiety, depression, and irritability are common long-term effects of brain trauma.
- Increased Risk of Further Injury: Suffering one concussion increases your risk of future concussions, especially if you’ve rushed your recovery.
Therapies to Promote Brain Healing Through Neuroplasticity
Healing from a brain injury involves more than just rest. Harnessing the brain’s neuroplasticity—its ability to reorganize and form new connections—can play a crucial role in recovery. Here are some therapies that can aid brain healing:
- Physical Therapy: Improves coordination, strength, and overall mobility.
- Massage Therapy: Reduces stress and improves blood flow to aid healing.
- Cognitive Therapy: Helps retrain the brain to improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
- Occupational Therapy: Focuses on regaining independence in daily tasks.
- Sensorimotor Therapy: Addresses issues with movement and sensory integration.
- Vision Therapy: Aims to correct vision problems caused by brain injuries.
- Vestibular Therapy: Helps with balance and dizziness.
- Neurointegrative Therapy: Combines various approaches to improve overall brain function.
- Psychotherapy: Supports emotional and mental well-being during recovery.
Taking Your Healing Seriously
I wish someone had emphasized the importance of healing to me as an athlete. It wasn’t until I decided to take my care seriously that I began to reclaim my health. I even switched my major to Human Performance to learn all I could about sports rehab. Healing takes time, but it’s worth it. If you’ve experienced a concussion, here are a few steps to start your recovery:
- Seek Medical Attention: Always consult a healthcare professional after a head injury.
- Rest Your Brain and Body: Avoid physical and mental strain while you recover.
- Follow a Gradual Return-to-Play Plan: Work with professionals to ease back into activities.
- Find Support: Connect with others who’ve experienced similar challenges.
- Go to Therapy: Can help your body through the healing process
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Can counter stress, relieve chronic pain, and even improve aspects of mood, thinking, and memory.
Products to Support Your Recovery
For practical tools to aid your recovery, check out my Walmart Creator Storefront and Shop Page. You’ll find curated selections for relaxation, pain relief, and overall well-being.
Reflection: Are You Prioritizing Your Health?
Take a moment to ask yourself: Am I giving my body the time and care it needs to heal? If the answer is no, it’s time to make a change. Your livelihood and long-term happiness depend on it. Drop your thoughts in the comments below; I’d love to hear your experiences and how you’re prioritizing your health.
Final Thoughts
Your health is your greatest asset. Choosing to heal is choosing to love yourself. Remember: self-love is the best love, and self-care is a vital part of that. The best relationship you’ll ever have is the one that starts with yourself.
Take care, and I’ll write to y’all soon.
Jordy