Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) can affect people for months after a head injury, causing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, poor sleep, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. While conventional rehabilitation can be helpful, some people continue to experience ongoing symptoms and seek additional support through acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
At Yi Acupuncture, treatment is tailored to the individual. From a TCM perspective, head injuries can disrupt the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood, affecting both physical and emotional wellbeing. Acupuncture and herbal medicine aim to restore balance, improve circulation, calm the nervous system, and support the body's natural healing processes.
A 25-year-old Kiwi male, active in sports, sustained a head injury during a football match approximately six months before seeking treatment. Since the injury, he experienced persistent neck discomfort, shoulder tightness, nausea, low energy, poor sleep, and a sense of disconnection. He also reported increased stress at work and felt very different from his normally active and positive self.
Despite receiving physiotherapy, his symptoms showed little improvement. During the initial consultation, his emotional state was noticeably low, and he felt frustrated by the slow recovery process.
After just one to two acupuncture treatments, he reported a reduction in nausea, fewer headaches, and an overall sense of relief. With the addition of carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, his sleep improved significantly. He described feeling lighter, calmer, and more emotionally balanced.
From a TCM perspective, the injury had disrupted the flow of Qi through the Ren Mai, Du Mai, and Eight Extraordinary Meridians. Treatment focused on restoring circulation, improving blood flow to affected areas, and supporting the body's natural healing response. Over time, he experienced a gradual return of energy and vitality.
A 27-year-old Kiwi woman sustained a concussion during a football game when a ball struck the back of her head. Prior to the injury, she already experienced migraines two to three times per month and had previously tried medication prescribed by her GP. However, she found the medication ineffective and experienced digestive side effects, leading her to discontinue its use.
Following the concussion, her symptoms worsened considerably. She experienced more frequent migraines, ongoing fatigue, sensitivity to artificial light, anxiety, and difficulty coping with daily activities.
Following acupuncture treatment, she noticed that her sensitivity to artificial lighting began to decrease. Her menstrual cycle also improved, with less heavy bleeding and better overall regulation.
Her migraines reduced from multiple episodes per month to approximately once per month. She also reported feeling more energetic, experiencing less anxiety, and having significantly fewer headaches.
This case highlights how acupuncture may support recovery from post-concussion symptoms while also helping to address related concerns such as migraines, sleep disturbances, hormonal balance, and emotional wellbeing.
Every concussion is different. Some people primarily experience headaches and dizziness, while others struggle with fatigue, poor concentration, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or ongoing neck tension. At Yi Acupuncture, treatment is customised according to each person's presentation and TCM diagnosis.
If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms following a concussion or head injury, acupuncture and herbal medicine may provide valuable support as part of your recovery journey.