I completely agree that you could have some problems with your neck and not just post-concussion syndrome - particularly, the bit about your blood pressure going really low. I have never had that, but it sounds almost as though something in the neck could be blocking the blood flow. I would ask someone about that, if it hasn't gone away completely.
I also have injuries in my neck and back that occurred at the same time as an injury to my brain.
One trouble that I have found is that once a doctor has determined that you have postconcussion syndrome he or she will put you into the "no treatment" category. They will then ignore all your other symptoms, like prolapsed discs, strained tendons, skeleton out of alignment etc.
I feel that the concussion part needs to be separated out and treated separately. There is no reason that conventional doctors can't treat what they are able to, even if the haven't a clue what to do with postconcussion syndrome.
Also, the spinal chord is connected to the brain and if you have some damage to the cord, it might contribute to what is going on in your brain.
If you find someone who seems to be able to treat part of your condition, I would go ahead and get them to fix that. At least you would feel good about having made some progress, even if it doesn't necessarily fix all your problems. Physiotherapists have sometimes given up on me just because they don't seem to be able to fix my headaches. I say, "Fix whatever you can fix. If you can only fix my neck but not my brain. You've already done great."
CS
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mark in Idaho
mel,
It sounds like you have a mix of PCS and other skeletal problems from your falls.
The PCS symptoms need to be separated from the other problems. The only way to do this is treat the other injuries. They should heal much quicker.
It is good to see that you have had some help with a chiropractor. You could add to that by finding a chiropractor who is a specialist in upper cervical chiropractic. NUCCA.org may be good for a referral. I am a bit concerned about the head and neck popping of a normal chiropractor. It may be too intense for your situation. Been there, done that.
Does you PT know how to treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome? The right arm/hand tingling could be a symptom of TOS. The nausea can also be TOS caused. My PT has great skills at myofacial release and works on the effected shoulder and vertebra area. I was also treated by a chiropractor who did extensive tissue work before any adjustments. The PT and chiro had greatly overlapping therapies.
Your sleep issues sound like you may not be breathing properly when you do get to sleep. The frequent reawakening can be caused by apnea. Is there anybody who can observe you sleeping? It would help if they checked in on you and watched your breathing.
Ever since my injury in 2001, I have to be very careful about sleeping position. If my neck bends to much while I sleep, I stop breathing. This causes the restless sleep, etc.
I hope this helps.
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