Key Takeaways A head injury can set off a chain reaction—from neck muscle guarding to spinal misalignment—that irritates the sciatic nerve and causes leg pain. It can also occur alongside a spine injury after trauma. (Paiva et al., 2011; Hlwatika et al., 2022). PMC +1 Traumatic brain injury (TBI) ramps up inflammation and pain signaling pathways in the spinal cord, increasing the chance of ongoing low-back and sciatic pain even when imaging looks “normal.” (Liang et al., 2017; Sahbaie et al., 2019; Widerström-Noga et al., 2016). PMC +2 Nature +2 TBI can also lead to heterotopic ossification (new bone growth) around soft tissues. Rarely, this new bone can compress the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica. (Issack et al., 2008; Panagiotopoulos et al., 2008; Cleveland Clinic, n.d.). PMC +2 PMC +2 Integrative chiropractic care aims to realign the spine, calm the nervous system, and support recovery routines (sleep, nutrition, pacing). Some clinics suggest that improved spinal ...
Sports Head Injuries: What Athletes, Families, and Coaches Need to Know (and How Integrative Care Helps)
Key Takeaway The most common sports head injury is a concussion , which is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). More severe injuries—like brain contusions , intracranial hematomas (epidural or subdural bleeds), and skull fractures —also happen, though less often. Early recognition, rest, and a step-wise return-to-play plan are essential. Chiropractic and integrative care can help manage neck pain, headaches, balance problems, and other musculoskeletal and neurological symptoms as part of a collaborative medical team that follows current concussion safety guidelines (CDC/CISG). (CDC, 2025; AAOS/AMSSM/CISG statements). PMC +3 CDC +3 OrthoInfo +3 The Big Picture: Why Head Injuries in Sports Matter Head injuries are common in contact and collision sports like football, hockey, rugby, soccer, lacrosse, and wrestling. Non-contact sports can also lead to injuries through falls or impacts with equipment. Concussions are by far the most frequent head injury in athletes; they usually ...
