Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast

Dr. Brewer brings his expertise as a neuro-optometrist to explain how visual processing problems are often overlooked in concussion recovery despite causing significant symptoms. He shares insights on integrating visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems to create lasting improvements for patients with post-concussion syndrome.

• 20/20 vision only measures clarity, not eye tracking or binocular function
• Many pos...

Dr. Michelle Morrissey of the Morrissey Institute explains how she has adapted EMDR therapy to safely and effectively treat patients with concussions and brain injuries. She details the eight phases of EMDR treatment and shares her approach of clearing small traumas first to create capacity for healing bigger ones.

• Dr. Morrissey has 20+ years of experience as a trauma-informed mental health professional specializing in E...

Dr. Ayla Wolf and Dr. Tatiana Habanova discuss the neuroendocrine changes post-concussion, particularly the impact on thyroid and adrenal function. Dr. Habanova explains that hypothyroidism often results from pituitary dysfunction rather than direct thyroid issues. She emphasizes the importance of assessing hormone levels immediately post-concussion or after a few weeks. They highlight the need for regular re-evaluation of thyroid ...

The hormonal ripple effects of concussions are often overlooked in recovery, creating frustrating plateaus for patients despite their best rehabilitation efforts. These hidden disruptions in the endocrine system can dramatically impact recovery and require a nuanced approach to care.

• Dr. Tatiana Habanova brings together functional neurology and functional medicine to address post-concussion hormone disruption
• The h...

When Shane Swenson's car was struck by a drunk driver traveling 90mph in a 30mph zone one February morning in 2019, life as he knew it changed forever. His 12-year-old son Brady suffered a traumatic brain injury that would launch the family on an unexpected journey through emergency surgeries, months of rehabilitation, and a complete reimagining of their future.

Shane vividly recalls the moment of impact—feeling "...

Natasha Wilch, physical therapist and concussion specialist, breaks down why traditional balance therapy often fails concussion patients and explains her approach to addressing persistent vestibular issues through a functional neurology lens. She shares insights from her five-day intensive treatment program and reveals the missing links that often prevent full recovery.

• Dizziness after concussion isn't always a spin...

Dr. Ayla Wolf, DAOM, unpacks the complex nature of dysautonomia beyond the common POTS diagnosis, explaining how this autonomic nervous system dysfunction affects multiple body systems and presents differently in each individual.

• The autonomic nervous system makes automatic adjustments for body functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion
• Dysautonomia refers to dysfunction of these automatic processes, affec...

Dr. Wilkerson walks us through the science of photobiomodulation. PBM can decrease inflammation, increase blood flow to treated areas, and improves cellular function by promoting energy production.
 
 • Photobiomodulation is the umbrella term for using light to change cellular function
 • Lasers work faster for pain relief, while LEDs are safer for home use
 • Red light therapy has been used in veterinary medicine s...

Dr. Bagnell shares his 30-year journey as a "health detective" in functional neurology, revealing how he helps patients with persistent cognitive symptoms after brain injury through careful investigation and targeted interventions.

• Brain fog often stems from disrupted neurovascular coupling, where blood flow fails to properly supply active brain regions
• Dysautonomia (autonomic nervous system dysfunction) ...

Dr. John McLaren shares his functional neurology approach to treating autonomic dysfunction and concussions, exploring cutting-edge therapies and personalized rehabilitation strategies for complex brain injuries.

• Detailed explanation of how jump rope training can improve neuroplasticity by synchronizing upper and lower body timing
• Discussion of PEMF devices and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for improving vasomotion and...

Dr. John McClaren shares his journey into specializing in brain injury rehabilitation and explains how autonomic nervous system dysfunction affects many TBI patients, often going undiagnosed despite causing significant symptoms.

• Personal connection to TBI after his father's severe train accident which inspired his specialization
• Conventional autonomic testing (QSART, tilt table) often has 6-month waiting lists...

Dr. Clayton Shiu brings his expertise in treating brain injuries through a unique integration of traditional Chinese medicine and cutting-edge technology, creating remarkable results for patients with neurological conditions.

• Specialized training at Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin
• Transitioned from sports medicine to neurology after recognizing growing t...

Join us for a powerful conversation on the often-overlooked aspects of concussion recovery. Dr. Danielle Fleming shares her experiences navigating the athletic world while dealing with the long-term impacts of brain injuries. 

- Discussing how athletes often ignore symptoms 
- The emotional toll of balancing identity and health 
- Techniques that helped in recovery from concussions 
- Dr. Fleming's current...

In this episode Dr. Ayla Wolf dives deep into cervical instability, a condition that often gets overlooked but can have significant effects on daily life. Understanding its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options can empower listeners to seek the help they need.

• Explanation of cervical instability and its causes, highlighting four types of cervical instability 
• Discussion of the wide range of symptom...

This episode emphasizes the intricate relationship between neck injuries and concussion recovery, exploring how sensory integration affects patient outcomes. Listeners learn about the importance of tailored therapies, effective communication among care providers, and the necessity of understanding each patient's unique presentation for optimal recovery.

• Understanding the role of functional neurology in treatment 

This episode illuminates the significant connection between neck injuries and concussions, and the overlapping symptoms that can occur from either. We delve into various symptoms stemming from neck trauma, explore effective therapies, and highlight the importance of functional neurological assessments and integrative treatment approaches for enhanced recovery outcomes.

• The relationship between neck injuries and concussio...

Our latest episode provides an inside look into a pilot study Sophia Bouwens and Ayla Wolf were both personally involved in on acupuncture's effect on post-traumatic headaches, revealing significant improvements for participants. We discuss the necessity of research-driven therapies, the importance of patient-provider communication, and future opportunities for tailored headache treatments. 

• Introduction to Life Aft...

This episode explores the connections between post-traumatic headaches and neuropathic pain, providing insights into the neurological underpinnings that affect pain perception and treatment efficacy. We emphasize individualized approaches to treatment and highlight the importance of understanding the brain's role in experiencing and managing pain.

• Understanding persistent post-traumatic headaches
• Exploring n...

This podcast dives deep into the complexities of post-traumatic headaches and migraines, exploring the differences in symptoms, triggers, and treatment options. Insights introduce listeners to medication overuse headaches and emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and holistic approaches for recovery after a concussion.

• Exploring common types of post-traumatic headaches
• Migraines as a risk factor for poor ...