Who Can Diagnosis Concussion in Ontario
A concussion describes a mild, traumatic brain injury, but there's a lot of confusion around who can actually diagnose it.
The concussion itself is the initial impact or injury. The symptoms that persist afterwards are referred to as Post Concussion Syndrome. Learn more about concussions here.
Various healthcare providers are trained and qualified to manage specific post-concussion symptoms. This means, at Absolute Health and Wellness, our team of physiotherapists, naturopaths, chiropractors and massage therapists can help in deal with symptoms and help you recover.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is simply a type of brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Impacts causing a concussion may be direct blow or rotational in nature (like spinning) [1].
The rapid movement associated with the physical trauma can stretch and damage brain cells. The damage is mediated by various chemicals and metabolic changes, but at the end of the day is inflammation and oxidation. So, managing a concussion should involve managing inflammation and oxidation.
Diagnosis of Concussion
In Ontario, only Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and Neuropsychologists can make a diagnosis of concussion. It is only these three professions for whom it is within their legislated scope of practice to provide diagnosis for neurologically-based conditions [1].
In other words our team at Absolute Health and Wellness cannot tell you that you have a concussion, for that you need to see your family doctor, nurse practitioner or neuropsychologist. This is especially important for those looking for doctors’ notes or written communication for purposes of work place absences, insurance or lawsuits.
Treating Post Concussion Syndrome
Post concussion syndrome involves a myriad of symptoms, and as such, it may seem daunting. But keep in mind the main, underlying philosophies are reducing brain inflammation and oxidation. Usually, very conservative methods are effective, with proper rest and specific techniques. For more info, give the clinic a call or come on in to chat.
References
Interested in learning more?
Read on in our series of articles on Concussions!
About the Author - Dr. Johann de Chickera
Dr. Johann is a fully licensed Naturopathic Doctor. His approach emphasizes the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and improving one’s health naturally. Dr. Johann obtained a Doctor of Naturopathy at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). Education at CCNM is a vigorous four years, with a curriculum involving biomedical sciences, physical diagnosis, clinical nutrition, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture, botanical (herbal) medicine, physical medicine, homeopathy and lifestyle management.
While Dr. Johann has a general practice, he focuses on fertility, hormonal imbalances, gut health, and autoimmune disease.
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