A New Approach to Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury and Concussions

Long-term adverse effects can be addressed with MeRT, or Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy.

Simply stated we use a magnetic field to stimulate, balance, and restore brain function, guided by very sophisticated imaging and diagnostics.

MERT APPROACH
Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury

A Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a physical injury to brain tissue that temporarily or permanently impairs brain function. Diagnosis is suspected clinically and confirmed by imaging (primarily CT).

 

Traumatic brain injuries and concussions are common in athletes who may experience multiple “head hits.” These hits affect the brain, and over time, the damage becomes cumulative. Members of the military are also commonly affected too, but TBIs or concussions can happen to anyone.

 

Those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury may need other therapies to assist with regaining memory, learning skills, coordination, and physical function, speech, and coping mechanisms. Brain injuries are complex and can affect many different aspects of a person’s life including their emotions and the ability to think clearly.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) defines a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as:

A blow to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. TBI can result when the head suddenly and violently hits an object or when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue. An injury can also occur without a direct blow to the head, such as in an auto accident where the forces cause the head to move violently in one direction and then snap back in another direction.

 

This causes the brain to be jostled around inside the skull and can also injure the brain. Suffering a closed head injury can produce symptoms that range from mild to severe, based on the degree of damage that was done to the brain. While it’s possible for a person to experience a TBI to not have a loss of consciousness, in moderate to severe cases, LOC does usually happen. More severe cases of traumatic brain injuries often can result in coma or even death.”

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

Causes of TBI include:

Symptoms of a Concussion or Traumatic Brain Injury

Depending on the severity of the injury, symptoms can include:

AN ENTIRELY NEW APPROACH
MeRT for Treatment of Concussions and Brain Injuries

Simply stated, we use magnetic fields to stimulate and balance brain function, guided by very sophisticated imaging and diagnostics.

 

Patients who have had Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) or Concussions can experience after-effects well after the initial injury and some may never fully recover. After the initial recovery, MeRT can be used to stimulate and assist the brain in improving connectivity and communication. In many cases, this has greatly improved recovery results.

How Can I Get Started?

Give us a call at 214 305-8004 or request a consultation and qEEG with us to learn if MeRT TMS could be right for you.

NON-INVASIVE AND DRUG-FREE
What is MeRT?

MeRT stands for Magnetic Resonance Therapy. MeRT is a tailored, highly individualized form of TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. In simpler terms, we use magnetic waves to stimulate specifically targeted areas of the brain that have been found to not be communicating or functioning optimally.

 

This is determined through sophisticated diagnostic tools and imaging and is used to plan a tailored treatment approach just for you.

HOW DO I KNOW…

We understand MeRT is a relatively new treatment, and you may not be sure if this is right for your situation. However, know that this is not a decision you have to make right away or all alone.

 

Your first step is a simple consultation with our New Patient Coordinator. During this consultation, you can discuss symptoms and history, ask all the questions you want, and have her explain the protocols and fees. She can also further explain the treatment itself.

EEG/EKG Testing
What is MeRT?

When you come in for your first appointment, we will perform the qEEG and EKG as mentioned above in the Treatment Overview section. These tests will help us evaluate brain activity and show us any dysfunction. The qEEG, or brain mapping, is a valuable tool as lets us customize treatment for YOU.

 

The qEEG/EKG testing is performed by our chief neurotechnician and takes approximately 45 minutes. However, if you are seeking treatment for your child with autism, please plan on spending an hour with us.

 

We will also gather your new patient paperwork at this time, and get you scheduled for your initial assessment period of treatment.

Assessment Period

Six weeks of treatment is recommended for patients undergoing MeRT in order to achieve optimal and long-lasting results. However, prior to committing to the six weeks, we have each patient first go through an assessment period of treatment to see how they will respond. This assessment period is included in the six weeks of treatment.

 

The assessment is  two weeks long. It consists of nine treatment sessions followed by a repeat qEEG. Treatment would be provided the first week, Monday through Friday, and the following week, Monday through Thursday. A typical treatment session lasts about 30-45 minutes.

 

Additionally, the follow-up qEEG results will be covered with you by your provider.

If clinical changes are occurring as they should, and the qEEG also shows progress, then you would then continue treatment which would occur five days per week, Monday through Friday. Generally, you will begin to feel the benefits of treatment within a week or two, but because treatment is cumulative, should continue to note improvements throughout the course of your treatment, and even for some weeks after treatment. Because treatment is consecutive, you must be able to stay in or around the area while undergoing your therapy.

 

 

Continuing Treatment

If clinical changes are occurring as they should and the qEEG also shows progress, you will then continue treatment. This ongoing treatment occurs five days per week, Monday through Friday. You should start to feel the benefits of treatment within a week or two, but because treatment is cumulative, you should continue to note improvements throughout the course of your treatment, and even for some weeks afterward. Additionally, because we perform treatment on consecutive days, you must be able to stay in or around the San Diego area while undergoing your therapy.

Because each person’s brain and condition are unique, we customize treatment protocols specifically for each patient, guided by the qEEG results. And repeat qEEGs and clinical consultations occur every two weeks throughout treatment.

As a note, the potential side-effects of treatment are minimal and should begin to dissipate as you progress through treatment. Moreover, the effects of treatment generally last a lifetime, though some patients prefer occasional follow-up treatment as needed.

Improvements and results of MeRT are based on strict and active observation of our treatment protocols. Results may vary based on each person and are not guaranteed.

INTERESTED BUT NOT SURE?

Talk with our New Patient Coordinator

It’s normal for patients and their families affected by neurological conditions to feel frustrated and isolated. After all, many have lost hope that treatment can improve the condition. And we have some understanding of what you may be going through.

 

However, there is hope. MeRT has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and feel passionate about living again. That’s why we want to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child.

It costs nothing to call us and talk about what is happening. Our New Patient Coordinator is here for you. She understands your pain and can answer all your questions. Additionally, she can explain the process and protocols, costs, possible insurance benefits, and any other details you want to know. During this no-obligation consultation, she will take all the time you need to know whether you should take the next steps.

How Can I Get Started?

Give us a call at 214 305-8004 or request a consultation and qEEG with us to learn if MeRT TMS could be right for you.

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