The Glymphatic System and Why It Matters After Concussion: Kansas City’s Concussion Specialist Explains

The Glymphatic System and Why It Matters After Concussion: Kansas City’s Concussion Specialist Explains

What Is the Glymphatic System?

The glymphatic system is a recently discovered waste clearance network in the brain that acts like a “brain cleaning service.” It removes harmful metabolic waste and toxins that build up during the day—such as beta-amyloid and tau proteins—that are linked to cognitive decline and neuroinflammation.

This system is most active during deep Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep, helping to maintain brain health and promote recovery after injury.

How the Glymphatic System Works

During deep sleep, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flows through specialized channels alongside blood vessels, washing away toxins and waste products from brain cells. This process:

• Reduces inflammation

• Clears neurotoxic proteins linked to memory loss and brain fog

• Supports brain plasticity and repair mechanisms

Without a properly functioning glymphatic system, these toxins accumulate, leading to worsening symptoms and slower recovery.

Why Glymphatic Function Is Disrupted After Concussion

After a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion, especially from auto accidents, the glymphatic system can be impaired due to:

• Brain swelling and inflammation that block waste clearance pathways

• Damage to brain regions controlling CSF flow

• Disrupted sleep architecture, reducing the time spent in restorative deep sleep when glymphatic activity peaks

• Increased neuroinflammation which further impairs clearance mechanisms

This leads to a dangerous buildup of neurotoxic substances, contributing to prolonged brain fog, headaches, memory problems, and other post-concussion symptoms.

How Restoring Glymphatic Health Supports Recovery

Improving glymphatic system function is a key part of concussion recovery. At Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC’s Kansas City clinic, we focus on:

• Restoring healthy sleep patterns to maximize deep NREM sleep

• Reducing neuroinflammation through targeted therapies

• Supporting overall brain health with nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes

• Using gentle, evidence-based chiropractic care to promote nervous system balance and improve brain fluid dynamics

Practical Tips to Support Your Brain’s “Cleaning System”

• Prioritize consistent, quality sleep—especially uninterrupted deep sleep

• Manage inflammation with anti-inflammatory diet and supplements

• Stay hydrated to support cerebrospinal fluid flow

• Avoid substances that disrupt sleep, such as caffeine and alcohol near bedtime

• Engage in regular light physical activity to boost circulation and lymphatic flow

Kansas City’s Trusted Concussion Chiropractor

If you’re dealing with persistent brain fog, headaches, or other symptoms after an auto injury or concussion, impaired glymphatic function may be part of the problem.

Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatment to restore brain health and speed your recovery.

📞 Call 816-226-7476 today to schedule your free consultation and get started on the path to clearer thinking and better sleep.

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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