ATP Depletion After Concussion: How Brain Energy Crashes

ATP Depletion After Concussion: How Brain Energy Crashes

What Is ATP and Why Does Your Brain Need It?

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the energy currency of every cell, including your brain cells. It powers electrical signals, repairs damage, and keeps neurons functioning properly.

Your brain uses about 20% of your body’s total energy, so even small drops in ATP affect brain function.

How Does a Concussion Cause ATP Depletion?

When your brain experiences a concussion:

• Axons stretch and become damaged, disrupting cell function

• Ion pumps work overtime to restore balance after ionic shifts

• This process demands huge amounts of ATP

At the same time:

• Blood flow to the injured brain regions is temporarily reduced

• The mitochondria (cell energy factories) are impaired

• ATP production decreases by up to 20-50% in mild to moderate TBIs

What Are the Consequences of ATP Depletion?

With less ATP available:

• Neurons can’t maintain normal electrical activity

• Cognitive functions like memory and attention decline

• Cells become vulnerable to oxidative stress and injury

• Recovery slows down significantly

Why Does This Energy Crisis Matter for Kansas City Auto Injury Patients?

If you’ve been in a car accident in Kansas City, Liberty, or Overland Park, your brain may be experiencing this hidden energy crisis even if imaging looks normal.

Without proper care:

• Symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and headaches persist

• Risk of prolonged post-concussion syndrome rises

• Daily function and quality of life suffer

How Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC Helps Restore Brain Energy

Our concussion rehabilitation focuses on:

• Supporting mitochondrial health

• Reducing inflammation

• Improving cerebral blood flow

• Guiding safe return-to-activity protocols

This comprehensive approach helps your brain rebuild its energy supply and function.

Schedule Your Free Concussion Evaluation Today

Don’t let ATP depletion keep you from living fully. Call 816-226-7476 to get expert concussion care in Kansas City.

Special thanks to Complete Concussions for their training and educational resources. To learn more about comprehensive concussion treatment options, visit completeconcussions.com.

Disclaimer:

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. If you have experienced a concussion or other injury, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Always follow the advice and treatment plan given by your medical professional.

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