The Axon Method of Concussion Rehab: Functional Neuro Rehab, Gut-Brain Axis, Neurometabolic Cascade, Energy Crisis, Autonomic Support, and Holistic Healing
Welcome to Axon Integrative Health, where we take a holistic approach to healing from concussions. Together with our dedicated team, we utilize a comprehensive brain-body-mind approach to address all aspects affected by concussion.
Understanding Concussions
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that disrupts normal brain function. When the brain is injured, it undergoes a complex process called the neurometabolic cascade, leading to an energy crisis. This cascade involves a series of events that affect brain cell function and metabolism, causing symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms of Concussion
Common symptoms of a concussion include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness and balance problems
- Cognitive impairments (e.g., memory issues, difficulty concentrating)
- Visual disturbances
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes (e.g., irritability, anxiety, depression)
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Feeling not connected to your body
The Gut-Brain Axis
After a concussion, the gut-brain axis can be significantly impacted. The gut-brain axis is the bidirectional communication network between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal system. Disruptions in this axis can lead to gastrointestinal problems and further complicate concussion recovery. Ensuring proper intestinal permeability, mucosal membranes, and microbiome is crucial to the brain optimization process
Subtypes of Concussion
Concussions can be classified into various subtypes based on predominant symptoms, you can have multiple subtypes or “flavors” of concussion:
- Cognitive/Fatigue: Characterized by memory and concentration issues, along with fatigue.
- Cervical: Associated with neck pain and headaches.
- Ocular: Involves visual disturbances and eye strain.
- Vestibular: Includes dizziness and balance problems.
- Anxiety/Mood: Features mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
Diagnostics
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective concussion management. At Axon Integrative Health, we use a range of diagnostic tools:
- Oculometrics: Assessing eye movements to identify visual impairments.
- Sensory Integration of Balance: Evaluating balance and coordination.
- Cervical Proprioception: Examining neck function and its impact on balance.
- Quantitative EEG (qEEG): Measuring brain wave patterns to identify dysfunctions.
- Buffalo Treadmill Testing: Assessing exercise tolerance and autonomic function.
- Autonomic Testing: Evaluating the autonomic nervous system’s response.
- Neurocognitive Assessments (CNSVS): Testing cognitive function and reaction speed.
Importance of Early Intervention
Seeing a specialist as soon as possible after a concussion is essential for the best healing outcomes. Delaying rehab can lead to ongoing symptoms and systemic changes, such as more severe gut problems and hormone dysregulations.
Holistic Healing Approach
Rehabilitation at Axon Integrative Health focuses on the brain, body, and mind. Our comprehensive approach includes:
Brain Rehab
- Eye Movements: Training to improve visual tracking and coordination.
- Balance and Sensory Integration: Exercises to restore balance and coordination.
- Cognition: Cognitive exercises to enhance memory and concentration.
- PEMF Therapy: Using electromagnetic fields to enhance cellular repair.
- Red Light Therapy: Reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Body Rehab
- Exercise: Tailored exercise programs to improve physical fitness and brain health.
- Breathwork: Techniques to enhance relaxation and autonomic balance.
- Nutrition: Diet plans to support brain health and reduce inflammation.
- Gut Healing: Plans to promote intestinal health and microbiome
- Sleep: Strategies to improve sleep quality and duration.
Mind Rehab
- Neurofeedback: Improving brain function through real-time feedback.
- Breathwork: Improving oxygenation and calmness into the nervous system.
- Audio Visual Entrainment and Sound: Frequency specific medicine to promote healing and brainwave patterns.
Supplements: Supporting recovery with key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, methylated B-Vitamins, magnesium, choline, ALA, glutathione, probiotics, NAD, methylene blue, possible peptides, among many others.
Metabolic, GI, and Hormone Support
- Metabolic System: Optimizing energy production and reducing oxidative stress.
- GI System: Supporting gut health through probiotics and gut-healing supplements.
- Hormone Patterns: Balancing hormones to improve overall well-being.
The Axon Method of Concussion Rehab
At Axon Integrative Health, our specialized approach, the Axon Method of Concussion Rehab, integrates advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to support your recovery. By addressing the root causes and providing comprehensive care, we aim to restore your health and enhance your quality of life.
For further reading and evidence-based information, please refer to sources on PubMed, such as:
Giza CC, Hovda DA. “The new neurometabolic cascade of concussion.” Neurosurgery. 2014.
Patricios JS, Schneider KJ, Dvorak J, et alConsensus statement on concussion in sport: the 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport–Amsterdam, October 2022British Journal of Sports Medicine 2023;57:695-711.
We look forward to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness, contact us to get scheduled.
