When the Brain Takes a Hit, Your Body Feels It Too


By Dr. Deirdre O’Neill, ND | Alpine Natural Health


Have you ever hit your head on the slopes? It’s a common experience for skiers and snowboarders alike—and not just from high-impact crashes. Often, the first symptoms of a concussion are subtle: that classic “goosebump” headache, some sleepiness, neck pain, or a bit of dizziness. Most people expect these to resolve within days, but sometimes, that bump reaches further than you think.

Remember: the brain is the conductor of the show. Any injury to the brain can affect how your whole body functions, and repeated concussions amplify these effects. Beyond the immediate cognitive symptoms like brain fog, confusion, or slowed reaction times, the ripple effects are systemic.

Gut Symptoms

The gut is especially sensitive to brain injury. Anything from diarrhea to constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, or general digestive unease may appear. This is a clear example of the gut-brain connection: when the brain is injured, the gut can go into “panic mode”.

Inflammation & Musculoskeletal Effects

Concussions trigger systemic inflammation, sending signals throughout the body to heal. This can manifest as muscle aches, joint swelling, and prolonged soreness—even in areas unrelated to the initial fall.

Hormonal Disruption

Your hormones are under central control, meaning a concussion can influence mood, fatigue, sleep, and temperature regulation. Some may notice changes around their menstrual cycle, persistent tiredness, chills, or night sweats.

Immune System Impact

The immune system can also be affected. Inflammation after a concussion can make it harder to fight infections, and other injuries may take longer to recover.

Cardiovascular Symptoms

Even your heart can be influenced. Changes in blood pressure, irregular pulse, or palpitations are not uncommon after a head injury.

Early Recognition and Recovery Matter

While helmets protect the head, they can’t prevent the internal movement of the brain. Early recognition of symptoms and early intervention are key. Naturopathic medicine can help the brain and body recover together. Treatments such as IV glutathione reduce oxidative stress, omega-3 fatty acids repair neural membranes, herbs support gut health, BioFlex laser therapy promotes cellular repair and reduces inflammation and neurofeedback retrains disrupted brainwave patterns. Lifestyle strategies—restorative sleep, stress reduction, and anti-inflammatory nutrition—support recovery and help prevent lingering symptoms.


Red Flag Checklist for Skiers: Brain & Body Symptoms After a Fall

Brain / Cognitive:

Headache or pressure

Dizziness or balance issues

Brain fog, memory lapses, or slowed reaction time

Mood changes: irritability, anxiety, sadness

Body / Whole-Body:

Fatigue or low energy despite rest

Muscle tension, stiffness, or poor coordination

Digestive issues: nausea, bloating, constipation, diarrhea

Sleep disturbances

Hormonal shifts, chills, or night sweats

Slower healing from injuries or increased illness

Heart symptoms: palpitations, blood pressure changes

What to Do:

Stop skiing immediately if you notice symptoms

Seek assessment from a healthcare professional familiar with concussions

Track symptoms over days or weeks

Support recovery with sleep, nutrition, hydration, stress management, and gut support


For more tips on protecting your brain, supporting recovery, and staying healthy on the slopes, follow me on Instagram @drdeirdreo for regular updates and practical advice.



Dr. Deirdre O’Neill, Naturopathic Physician, has an expertise in Prolotherapy and Platelet Rich Plasma using Ultrasound Guidance. She practices in Penticton at Alpine Natural Health. You can also find her on the hill as part of the volunteer Canadian Ski Patrol.