Do I Need to Hit My Head to Get a Concussion?

In today’s Myth Buster video, we’re answering a question that surprises many of us: do you need to hit your head to get a concussion? While head trauma is a common cause of concussions, it’s not the only way these injuries can occur. The latest research shows concussions can also happen due to sudden jolts or movements that cause the brain to shake inside the skull—no direct hit to the head required.

Concussions Without a Direct Head Impact

We often associate concussions with blows to the head, like in sports collisions or accidents, but the reality is that a strong force to the body can also lead to a concussion. Sudden stops, whiplash, or rapid changes in movement can cause the brain to move violently within the skull, leading to injury. This is why activities like car accidents or hard falls can result in a concussion, even when the head isn’t directly impacted.

It’s important for us to recognize this, as it broadens our understanding of what can cause a concussion. We can’t always rely on a visible head injury to signal something is wrong. Being aware of the symptoms—such as dizziness, confusion, headaches, and nausea—is critical, regardless of whether or not there was a direct blow to the head.

Why Awareness is Key

What really matters is how quickly we can identify the signs of a concussion and seek medical attention. Whether or not the head was directly impacted, the symptoms of a concussion should never be ignored. A concussion specialist, like Dr. Caze, is trained to evaluate and treat these injuries, ensuring a safe recovery. By paying attention to how we feel after a jolt or intense movement, we can avoid the risks of ignoring a potential concussion.