Client Name:
Age:
Gender:
Date Generated:

Post-Concussion Neck Tension - 7 Week Rehab Plan

Generated by MMSx Authority Team

Overview: Post-concussion neck tension is a very common symptom following a head injury, often contributing to headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. It arises from direct neck trauma during the injury (whiplash component), increased muscle guarding due to central nervous system sensitivity, and altered postural control. This 7-week plan follows the NEEBAL framework (Neutral → Elasticity → Endurance → Balance → Activation → Load) to systematically address neck stiffness and pain by focusing on gentle symptom management, restoring pain-free mobility, strengthening deep cervical stabilizers, improving postural control, and gradually reintroducing activity while respecting the sensitive post-concussion state.

Pain Profile (10 Parameters)

Technical Name: Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) with Cervicogenic Component, Cervicalgia Secondary to Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI)
Layman's Description: Neck stiffness, pain, and muscle tension that develops or worsens after a head injury (concussion), often contributing to headaches and dizziness.
Common Triggers: Direct impact to head/neck, whiplash mechanism, sustained poor posture (e.g., looking down at devices), physical exertion, cognitive exertion, emotional stress, loud noises, bright lights.
Synonyms / Alternate Names: Concussion neck pain, cervicogenic headache after concussion, whiplash after concussion.
Movement Pattern Involved: Restricted cervical range of motion (especially rotation and extension), muscle guarding in upper trapezius, levator scapulae, SCM, and suboccipitals; altered deep neck flexor activation; forward head posture; poor oculomotor control.
Region / Body Part: Cervical spine (neck), upper back, shoulders, base of the skull (suboccipital region). Pain can refer to the head (tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches), face, or behind the eyes.
Pain Type: Dull ache, stiffness, throbbing, pressure, sharp pain with movement, muscle spasms, tenderness to touch. Often accompanied by headaches, dizziness, fatigue, light/sound sensitivity, cognitive fogginess.
Severity / Stage Tags: Acute (first few days/weeks post-injury), Sub-acute (weeks to 3 months), Persistent/Chronic (symptoms beyond 3 months). Severity varies greatly.
Suggested Drill Focus: Gentle symptom modulation → deep neck flexor/extensor activation → postural correction → scapular stabilization → vision/vestibular integration (as appropriate) → gradual return to activity.
Red Flags: Worsening headache, persistent/worsening dizziness/nausea, confusion, difficulty speaking, weakness/numbness in limbs, vision changes, loss of consciousness, seizures → urgent medical evaluation. **Always seek medical clearance for any post-concussion symptoms.**

Warm-Up (5–7 mins)

Diaphragmatic Breathing (1-2 min): Deep belly breaths to reduce overall tension and calm the nervous system, which is often sensitive post-concussion. Focus on slow, controlled breaths.
Gentle Cervical Retractions (1 min): Very slow, subtle chin tucks to activate deep neck flexors without causing pain or dizziness. Focus on precision.
Shoulder Rolls (1 min): Gentle elevation, retraction, depression, and protraction of shoulders to mobilize the scapula and release superficial tension. Avoid aggressive movements.
Thoracic Spine Mobility (2 min): Gentle rotation and extension movements of the mid-back (e.g., seated twists, cat-cow on all fours, or gentle foam roller extension) to improve posture and reduce neck compensation.

Trainer's Name:
Signature:

Cooldown (5–7 mins)

Suboccipital Release (Tennis Ball) (3 mins): Gentle massage at base of skull with tennis ball, focusing on relaxation. Use minimal pressure.
Gentle Cervical Retractions (2 mins): Slow, controlled chin tucks to reinforce deep neck flexor activation and maintain neutral neck position.
Diaphragmatic Breathing & Relaxation (2 mins): Deep, slow breathing to promote full muscle relaxation and recovery, focusing on calming the nervous system.
Self-Assessment (1 min): Briefly assess current neck pain, headache intensity, dizziness, and overall feeling of relaxation. Note any changes.

Written/Suggested by MMSx certified Professionals (MMSx Authority) — NEEBAL framework applied.

Disclaimer: This rehabilitation program is educational and follows evidence-based principles. **Individuals with post-concussion symptoms should first be thoroughly assessed and cleared by a medical professional (e.g., physician, physical therapist, neurologist, concussion specialist) before initiating any exercise program.** Stop any exercise that causes increased pain, headaches, dizziness, nausea, light/sound sensitivity, cognitive fogginess, or other concerning symptoms. Progression should be very gradual and symptom-limited. This is not medical advice. MMSx Authority, TrainersEye, and affiliates disclaim liability for injuries or adverse outcomes.