If you are a new visitor, diagnosed with a difference, please read this introduction letter to you.

For all other new visitors, Dr. McKinlay also has a special introduction letter to you.

Announcements and News

Before Signing the Guestbook

If you wish to return to the 'Ask Dr. Dunc.' mainpage, please click here

If you wish to visit the 'Ask Dr. Dunc.' question archives, please click here

 

Question 98: 4 days ago [my son] was playing hockey and had an accidental collision with a player from the other team. They were both knocked off their feet and a little shaken. It was near the end of the second period. After the game I noticed [my son] do his tongue tic which he hasn't done since school started. I didn't say anything to [him] however he mentioned it to me that it was weird since the third period he started his tongue tic! This is now the second time this has happened to [him] after a hit in hockey, he seems to develope a tic. Is this possible? I'm wondering if I should start keeping track of these? Take care, J.S., MB, Canada.

Hi J.:

Sure this is possible -- when the literature says that stress exacerbates tics, it doesn't mean only psychological stress. Anything that strains the resources of the body ('stresses' it) will make those brakes leakier............

It could be as well that if he is bruising his brain (called a contusion) or giving himself mild concussions that this is putting additional stress on his neurology that brings the tics to the forefront again. Think of the brain being like a link of chains, with the 'weakest' link being the TS neurology: any extra pressure and that's the first area to 'go'.

Hope this helps! This is brief because, yes, things ARE quite busy these days (but in a very exciting and wonderful way!).

Dr. Dunc.

Top of Page

Documentary

Accolades

Writings

Youth Haven

Ask Dr. Dunc

Resources