Post Concussion Syndrome

In most cases of concussions, also known as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), symptoms typically disappear within the first 2-4 weeks. However, in 20-40% of cases, symptoms remain present up to 6-months post injury, and in 10-20% of cases, symptoms remain up to 1 year and beyond. These symptoms can include headaches, blurry vision, confusion, memory loss and feelings of depression or anxiety, among others. Currently, there is only limited success in treating concussions pharmacologically or with physical therapy. However at Re-Gen we have several therapies which research has shown to be effective. These include:

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has shown promising results in its ability to reduce post-concussion symptoms and the damage to the brain that can result from TBIs. For instance, one study showed that 40 1-hour sessions were able to improve cognition by 15% and quality of life by 16.5% in those who had experienced TBIs. Another study examining 40 1-hour sessions found a 17% improvement in cognition, a 26.5% improvement in quality of life, and a 35.5% reduction in symptoms. Research has shown these occurred through improved brain blood flow and oxygenation, reduced inflammation and swelling in the brain, and increased levels of beneficial heat shock proteins in the brain. Ultimately these changes have resulted in improved cognitive ability, a reduction in symptoms, and an enhanced quality of life.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy has been shown to be effective in improving post concussion syndrome as well. In one study examining 42 1-hour PEMF sessions in individuals with multiple concussions, there was a 75% reduction in total number of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Another study found that 35 30-minute sessions were able to improve post-concussion cognitive decline and depression by up to 61%. Other research has shown the ability of PEMF to reduce brain-specific inflammation and increase brain blood flow, which is believed to contribute to its ability to improve post-concussion symptoms.

Cryotherapy and Infrared Heat Therapy

Research studies on cryotherapy and infrared heat therapy and its ability to improve TBIs are limited, however there have been some studies that indicate these therapies may help. One study on cryotherapy and post concussion syndrome found that 10 sessions were able to improve balance and cognition, while another study showed that 20 sessions were able to significantly improve severity of symptoms and quality of life. Research has also shown that an infrared sauna was able to increase levels of two important proteins in the brain that help improve brain health and recovery from injury. 

Targeted Nutritional Supplementation

At Re-Gen, we also provide high-quality nutritional supplements that have been shown to improve concussion symptoms. Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin E and other antioxidants have been shown to improve cognition, learning and memory after a TBI (found in our “Antioxidant Blend”), while vitamin D and Omega 3 supplementation have also been shown to improve symptoms and functional outcomes after TBIs (found in our “Healthy Aging blend”)

Exercise and Recovery

Exercise can be difficult when you are experiencing symptoms from traumatic brain injuries, but it’s also important to improve your health and physical function during this time. For this reason, at Re-Gen we utilize custom exercise programs with constant supervision to improve your health and physical abilities while also taking into account your TBI symptoms. Our rehabilitative approach along with the combination of exercise and our recovery is a powerful tool for improving your health and post-concussion symptoms.