When most people hear the word “concussion,” they think of an athlete knocked unconscious on the field or someone dazed after hitting their head. But concussions are more than just dramatic sports injuries—and the symptoms can be far more complex and unexpected than most realize.
At Hope Chiropractic in Southlake, TX, Dr. Joey Kramer takes a specialized, whole-body approach to post-concussion recovery—focusing on the overlooked yet powerful connection between upper cervical alignment and brain health.
If you’ve been feeling “off” after a head injury—even if it seemed minor—this article may open the door to answers you’ve been searching for.
We proudly serve the communities of Southlake, Grapevine, Colleyville, Westlake, and Trophy Club, providing advanced upper cervical chiropractic care to help patients restore function and balance.
Not All Concussion Symptoms Are Obvious
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), typically caused by a blow to the head, a sudden jolt, or even a whiplash injury. While symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea are commonly associated with concussions, many other signs often go unrecognized:
- Light sensitivity
- Brain fog or slowed thinking
- Mood swings or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Sensitivity to noise or crowds
- Neck stiffness or unexplained fatigue
- Changes in appetite or digestion
What makes these symptoms tricky is that they can show up days or even weeks after the injury—and may not immediately be linked to the concussion.
This is where upper cervical chiropractic care becomes an important part of the conversation.
The Hidden Impact on Your Neck and Brainstem
During a concussion, your brain moves rapidly within the skull. Even if the impact was to the body rather than the head, the sudden acceleration-deceleration (like in car accidents or falls) can create a chain reaction of dysfunction, particularly at the top of your spine.
The upper cervical spine—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae—plays a crucial role in brain and nervous system regulation. This area houses the brainstem, which controls vital autonomic functions such as heart rate, breathing, sleep cycles, and coordination.
When the alignment of these top vertebrae is disturbed, it can create:
- Miscommunication between the brain and body
- Distorted signals that affect balance and cognition
- Impaired blood flow or cerebrospinal fluid movement
- Heightened stress response, leading to increased fatigue and anxiety
Unfortunately, this misalignment often goes undiagnosed in standard post-concussion treatment plans.
How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Makes a Difference
At Hope Chiropractic, Dr. Kramer uses precise diagnostic imaging and a detailed neurological assessment to evaluate whether your upper cervical spine has shifted out of alignment.
If a misalignment is found, a gentle, customized correction is performed—designed to restore natural alignment and improve brain-body communication. This isn’t the twisting or cracking often associated with traditional chiropractic. Instead, it’s:
- Targeted – Based on your unique measurements
- Non-invasive – Suitable for sensitive nervous systems
- Lasting – The goal is for the adjustment to hold over time
By correcting these subtle shifts, many patients notice improvements in areas they didn’t expect—like energy, focus, sleep, and mood.
What Kind of Improvements Can You Expect?
Every case is different, but patients recovering from concussions often report:
- Reduced brain fog and clearer thinking
- Fewer or less intense headaches
- Improved coordination and posture
- Better sleep and energy levels
- Decreased anxiety and sensory sensitivity
- Enhanced ability to tolerate noise, lights, or motion
This approach doesn’t replace emergency care or necessary diagnostics—it complements them by addressing lingering dysfunctions that may be contributing to ongoing symptoms.
Who Is This Right For?
You might benefit from an upper cervical evaluation if you’ve experienced any of the following:
- Concussion or head injury in the past year
- Whiplash, falls, or impact sports
- Chronic headaches or dizziness following a known injury
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
- Feeling “not quite right” without a clear medical explanation
You don’t need to wait until your symptoms get worse. The sooner you address alignment issues, the better your chances of a smoother and more complete recovery.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
Living with unresolved concussion symptoms can feel isolating and overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to stay that way. At Hope Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you understand the full picture of your health and create a care plan that supports your body’s natural healing potential.
Dr. Joey Kramer offers expert upper cervical care to residents of Southlake, Grapevine, Colleyville, Westlake, and Trophy Club, helping individuals recover from head trauma with a clearer path forward.
Ready to explore how this gentle approach might help you feel like yourself again? Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider regarding any symptoms, diagnoses, or treatment options related to your personal health.
