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3 things I have observed and experienced myself:
1. The ADHD brain is born deficient in the nutrients required to heal after a concussion
2. The ADHD brain is physically imaged to be a different size
3. THE ADHD athlete/child suffers from ongoing symptoms if they don’t get the right treatment and brain nutrition into their bodies
What is ADHD?
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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by ongoing patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Also, ADHD individuals are more likely to have hypermobility or laxity in their joints and digestive issues and are extremely creative.
ADHD has been garnering increasing attention in recent years due to its potential influence on the recovery process post-concussion. This intriguing interaction presents unique challenges and opportunities for caring for and rehabilitating concussion patients with ADHD.
ADHD’s Impact on Concussion Recovery
The first point to consider is that individuals with ADHD may be at a higher risk of sustaining a concussion in the first place due to their characteristic impulsivity and hyperactivity. They usually are the best of the best in their field, whether they are athletes or in the military.
Following a concussion, the ADHD brain may struggle more than others with recovery due to its pre-existing condition, and this is where the intricacies begin.
ADHD brains, compared to neurotypical ones, are already chemically different, characterized by irregularities in the release and uptake of specific neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, GABA, and norepinephrine.
Following a concussion, these neurotransmitter systems are further disrupted, making a recovery more complex for an individual with ADHD.
Moreover, common symptoms of concussion, such as impaired concentration, memory loss, and difficulties in processing speed, align closely with the symptoms of ADHD, often exacerbating the already challenging symptoms of ADHD.
This concurrence of symptoms can make it more difficult to discern whether persistent cognitive difficulties post-concussion are due to an extended recovery process or the underlying ADHD.
Understanding and Navigating the Path to Recovery
The brain’s inherent plasticity allows it to recover and adapt after an injury like a concussion. However, an ADHD brain’s unique structure and function can influence the recovery trajectory. This understanding underscores the need for individualized, comprehensive rehabilitation strategies.
Recovery must go beyond mere symptom management to include targeted strategies that address both the concussion’s aftermath and the pre-existing ADHD.
Recovery
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1. Dynamic Brain Healing Protocol
2. Brain Nutrition
3. ADHD coaching and skill development
An approach focusing on gradually reintegrating exercise and tasks can be beneficial.
For example, children returning to school post-concussion might need extra time to complete assignments or breaks during the day to prevent cognitive overload. By providing these modifications, we help manage both the concussion symptoms and ADHD.
Multidisciplinary Team Approach: The Path Forward
A multidisciplinary team approach is crucial in managing the complex interaction between ADHD and concussion.
There is also a hierarchy to healing concussion.
Number 1 – Get the Brain out of Trauma or Fight or Flight.
Then create the team.
This team typically includes medical doctors, neuropsychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and educators working together to support the patient’s recovery.
Each professional brings a unique perspective and expertise, contributing to a comprehensive and individualized recovery plan. The goal is to ensure that patients with ADHD and concussion receive the necessary care, minimizing the symptoms’ severity and duration and maximizing recovery and returning to daily activities.
Final Thoughts
The relationship between ADHD and concussion recovery is complex and multifaceted. Recovery is possible. I know I did it; after 6 major head injuries, my brain is better than when I was 20.
To find out how I did it book a 15 min free chat but clicking the link or take our Brain Health Assessment .