North Vancouver Concussion Testing

The symptoms of concussion can be due to inflammation in the brain, leading to reduced blood and oxygen delivery. Or they can be due to muscle guarding that comes along with all injuries. Or they can be from a permanent change in nerve function as in the case of post-concussion symptoms. Therefore concussion testing needs to include both physical and neurological exams as well as a direct look at the brain.  Sometimes even the gastrointestinal tract becomes affected after a concussion.

The symptoms of brain inflammation can be there, however without any other sign on MRI or other conventional imaging techniques.  Thanks to a new technology, now offered in our North Vancouver Concussion Clinic, our patients have a new hope. The technology is called Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG). It can be used not only to diagnose the concussion but also to guide the proper treatment of the head injuries. 

 North Vancouver Concussion Clinic

We use a comprehensive approach; personalized diets to correct the gastrointestinal after-effects of concussion along with supplements to facilitate healing of the brain. We integrate Bowen therapy to improve the physical guarding and address the functional changes of the muscles of the neck and shoulders after the concussion

Additionally, we use quantitative encephalogram (qEEG) to identify the spontaneous electrical activity of the brain relating to a concussion. This analysis gives us the ability to view the dynamic changes post-concussion. Combined with a powerful program called LORETA neurofeedback training, the qEEG can then be used to augment the brain activity to help the symptoms and achieve sustained improvements.

Concussion facts

Head injuries are common. About 20 percent of the individuals experience one or more in their lifetime. A loss of consciousness after a blow to the head usually means a concussion. But not all head injury comes with a loss of consciousness. 

Concussion Symptoms

• • A headache or a feeling of pressure in the head.

• • Temporary loss of consciousness.

• • Confusion or feeling as if in a fog.

• • Memory loss surrounding the traumatic event.

• • Dizziness or “seeing stars”

• • Ringing in the ears.

• • Nausea.

• • Vomiting

• • Slurred speech

• Delayed response to questions

Some symptoms of concussions show up immediately. Others may be delayed for hours or days and remain for months after injury, such as:

• Concentration and memory complaints
• Irritability and other personality changes
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances
• Psychological adjustment problems and depression
• Disorders of taste and smell
• loss of balance
• Fatigue