Concussion Recovery Program
Optimization-
Based
Concussion
Recovery
Aims for
'Better than
Before'
Evidence-Based Management +
Integrative Therapeutic
Approach =
Recovery through Optimization
How Neuregen's Optimization-based Approach to Concussion Recovery leaves Everything on the Field.
Neuregen's Comprehensive Approach to the Treatment of Concussion takes aim at the overlapping factors that cause post-concussion symptoms to persist, delaying recovery and robbing performance.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI), even when mild, such as a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), can lead to significant emotional and psychological issues that often contribute to long-term disability. These problems are frequently underrecognized, underdiagnosed, and inadequately treated, despite mounting evidence of their prevalence and impact on recovery. While much focus has been placed on the cognitive and physical symptoms of head injury, there remains a substantial gap in addressing the psychological sequelae of TBI, particularly as it pertains to the coordination between neurology, neurorehabilitation, and mental health services.
One of the most profound consequences of TBI is personality change, which can have a significant social impact. Changes in behavior, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships are commonly reported following TBI, even in cases of mTBI.
Neuregen's "whole brain", optimization-based approach to head injury (incl. post-concussion symptoms), begins with a technology-based assessment process that measures a range of brain functions, including cognitive function, vestibular system (balance system), oculomotor system (control of eyes and vision), autonomic system, and systems related to psychological and emotional function.
This integrative, neuro-psychiatric assessment identifies treatment targets, which are then integrated into a personalized, "brain-building" treatment plan, which is intended to improve brain function, using objective (mostly computerized) assessment tools to ensure progress in all areas.
One of the distinct aspects our program is the integrative approach that combines neurologic (brain and nervous system) therapies with psychological therapies to deliver a comprehensive, personalized recovery experience... and a "whole new person".
What Makes Neuregen's
Concussion Recovery
Program Different?
Psychological Assessment & Therapy
Emotional & psychological disturbances following brain injury (TBI) are common, even after mild injuries (mTBI). Up to 50% of people who experience TBI, including concussion, report significant psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within the first year after injury. Between 18-40% of individuals with mTBI will develop long-term psychological issues, and some reports suggest that these problems can persist for years or even indefinitely. Depression and anxiety are particularly prevalent, with around 23% of patients developing depression post-concussion, often co-occurring with anxiety disorders. These psychological issues can contribute substantially to disability following head injury. Neuregen’s assessment and therapy process includes an assessment by psychiatric-trained professionals as well as innovative psychotherapies in the recovery process.
Autonomic Testing
Autonomic dysfunction (dysautonomia) is a common complication following concussion, affecting an estimated 30-60% of individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). This can manifest as irregularities, including abnormal heart rate variability, blood pressure and heart rate changes, digestive issues, and issues with temperature regulation. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a common manifestation in post-concussion syndrome (PCS), where patients experience a rapid heart rate upon standing and related dizziness and fatigue. Dysautonomia following concussion can significantly impact recovery, prolong symptoms, and interfere with daily functioning. Neuregen’s assessment process includes an in-depth autonomic assessment, which then informs a corrective therapy program.
Cognitive Symptoms in Concussion
Concussions can lead to cognitive effects that impact memory, attention, processing speed, and executive function. These can manifest as difficulty concentrating, confusion, forgetfulness, and slowed thinking. These impairments can significantly affect an individual’s ability to work, study, or perform everyday tasks. The cognitive effects of concussion can be subtle and hard to detect, which is why they are often underdiagnosed, potentially leading to delayed treatment and prolonged recovery. Neuregen’s program prioritizes early cognitive testing by psychiatry-trained professionals, which is coupled with cognitive-specific therapies.
Pain & Headache
Following Concussion
Current scientific evidence indicates that pain is a common and persistent symptom following concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Headaches are the most frequently reported form of post-concussion pain, affecting up to 90% of individuals after the injury. These difficult-to-treat headaches can resemble tension-type headaches or migraines, persisting for weeks to months. Individuals with mTBI may also experience chronic pain syndromes such as widespread bodily pain. Neuregen’s integrative concussion recovery program includes a range of cutting-edge, pain management strategies, including a range of alternative pain and headache therapies.
"Whole Brain"
Diagnostic Technologies
Neuregen's Approach to Concussion symptom management and recovery is based on a technology-assisted assessment process that emphasizes an assessment of brain function. Unfortunately, imaging (e.g., MRI) is usually of little value in visualizing the effects of brain injury because these injuries rarely cause changes in the brain that can be visualized. Rather, the consequences of head injury typically involve functional changes, which must be revealed through diagnostic processes that test a range of brain functions.
Functional-Neuro Orthopedic Rehabilitation (FNOR)
FNOR involves an integrative assessment and therapy approach that is based on a technology-based, kinematic assessment of biomechanics to identify pivotal deficits in movement, which can inform a high-leverage, precision therapy prescription. The FNOR process also integrates as assessment of psychological, brain and peripheral nervous system factors that promote pain.