An Emerging Treatment for Traumatic Brain Injury / Concussions Getting Incredible Results
A Traumatic Brain Injury or Concussion can occur in varying severity and can cause short and long-term effects, both mental and physical. Our Treatment is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment called MeRT, which stands for Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy.
Do You Have A Traumatic Brain Injury or Concussion?
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.”
Traumatic brain injuries are also common in athletes who participate in contact sports such as football, and experience multiple “head hits.” These hits affect the brain, and over time, the damage becomes cumulative, resulting in post-concussive disorder. Members of the military are also commonly affected too. Traumatic brain injury for these folks can occur by direct hits or injuries to the head, but also by repeated exposures to the forces of “blast injuries.”
Questions About traumatic brain injury Treatment?
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Effects
Those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury will often need other therapies to assist with regaining memory, learning skills, coordination, physical function, speech, and coping mechanisms. This is because brain injuries are complex and can affect many aspects of a person’s life, including their emotions and the ability to think clearly. In fact, some people cannot work again or complete day-to-day activities.
Depending on the severity of your injury, symptoms can include:
Loss of consciousness- Headaches
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Dilated pupils and vision changes
- Dizziness
- Memory problems
- Confusion
- Cognitive decline
- Inappropriate emotional responses
- Anger
- Depression
- Feeling of isolation
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Facial weakness
- Weakness or loss of function in other parts of the body
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Breathing problems
- Numbness and tingling in different parts of the body
- Loss of hearing or tinnitus
Loss of consciousnessOften a traumatic brain injury can cause brain swelling, hematoma (blood clot), or bleeding within the brain which can be life-threatening. A person who has suffered a traumatic brain injury or concussion of any kind should be taken to the emergency room as soon as possible, even if loss of consciousness is not experienced. Early intervention is crucial to help avoid complications and to avoid the injury worsening.
There are people who are at higher risk for brain injuries including athletes, the elderly (because they are at higher risk for falls), and children and teenagers who are involved in physical-type activities.
Athletes, in particular, can suffer repeated hits or injuries to the brain and the effects of those can be cumulative over time. The full degree of symptoms may present later on as the brain begins to deteriorate.
Long-Term Effects of TBIs and Concussions
Treatment is important. A Traumatic Brain Injury if untreated can lead to shortened life span and significant complications. According to the Journal of Neurotrauma:
“Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) produces both acute and more chronic consequences that lead to permanent disabilities that increase long-term mortality and reduced life expectation.”
The Journal goes on to explain that untreated TBI can result in various secondary pathological conditions, including seizures, sleep disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, endocrine dysregulation, and psychiatric problems.
Questions About traumatic brain injury Treatment?
We Are Always Happy to Talk!
(949) 418-1108
Tait Fletcher, Actor and Stunt Performer, Discusses the Difference that MeRT Made in His Life After He Suffered Multiple Concussions:
I’d just always ‘outworked’ it. After the last concussion, that wasn’t an option, even though I had previously walked off a dozen concussions. It’s vital to know that not all TBIs result in massive concussions, but they all add to the erosion of the mind and self, if untreated.
For now, I want to ring the bell for Spencer and Fred and the whole crew at Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach. Through EEG, MeRT, and some subtle sleep and attention shifts, I’ve had a radical, nourishing, strengthening, and dare I say, “healing,” that has brought me to see life through a filter I’ve never known was available.
Giving life a chance is sometimes just staying in “the Try.” If you are damaged, confused, and at the end, know that you have allies that you’ve never met before.” – Tait F.
I’d just always ‘outworked’ it. After the last concussion, that wasn’t an option, even though I had previously walked off a dozen concussions. It’s vital to know that not all TBIs result in massive concussions, but they all add to the erosion of the mind and self, if untreated.MeRT’s Effectiveness in Treating Symptoms of TBIs and Concussions: Research Studies
MeRT for TBI/Concussions is based on years of independent, published research studies. Targeted rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) is a key element of our MeRT treatment for head injuries. Here are some of the many studies showing the effectiveness of rTMS:
The use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) following traumatic brain injury (TBI): A scoping review
Evidence suggests that rTMS has the potential to be an efficacious therapeutic intervention for multiple symptoms after TBI, including depression, dizziness, central pain, and visual neglect. “
Neuromodulatory Interventions for Traumatic Brain Injury
In this special issue of the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, we share with readers some of the latest advancements in neuromodulation specific to TBI, while providing the framework to further our understanding of how and why functional skills are likely improved. While neuromodulatory interventions can play a critical role in functional recovery for those with TBI, the heterogenous nature of TBI means that clinical implementation of neuromodulation will require understanding, at the individual and group levels, of how, when, and where to alter brain activity to support sustained recovery of sensory and higher order functions.”
The role of transcranial magnetic stimulation in treating depression after traumatic brain injury
This study suggests that rTMS is a potential treatment option for depression following TBI. Both 15 to 16 session and 30 to 38 session cohorts showed significant decreases in depression as measured by PHQ-9 following rTMS treatment. These findings support the use of rTMS in post-concussion depression treatment and highlight the need for more research on rTMS therapy following TBI.”
Randomized trial of rTMS in traumatic brain injury: improved subjective neurobehavioral symptoms and increases in EEG delta activity
Subjective measures of depression, sleep dysfunction, post-concussive symptoms (PCS), and executive function showed significant improvement with stimulation, retaining improved levels at two-week follow-up. EEG delta power exhibited elevation one week after stimulation cessation.”
Neural mechanisms of emotional health in traumatic brain injury patients undergoing rTMS treatment
Our findings uncover the neural mechanisms underlying the improvement in emotional well-being in TBI due to application of neuromodulation. The main effect of rTMS is to reduce emotional disorders and hence consequently it may improve cognitive and executive functions.”
Low frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation for cognitive recovery after traumatic brain injury: A case report
Our results are consistent with studies showing improved cognitive functioning in TBI following a unilateral or bilateral rTMS protocol that used low frequency rTMS over the right DLPFC. Therefore, this stimulation site may be promising for improving cognitive recovery in TBI, especially when combined with cognitive rehabilitation.”
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Treatment of Depression in a Patient With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Case Report: A 37-year-old male with history of anxiety and bipolar depression incurred a TBI after a 60-foot fall. After his physical recovery, the patient had refractory depression. Eight months after the TBI event, he underwent a 6-week course of rTMS treatment and had a 70.8% improvement in mood symptoms by the end of the therapy as indicated by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, transitioning from severe to mild depression according to the scoring system. Clinical correlation during the months following conclusion of rTMS therapy showed no signs of remission or adverse side effects. The patient remains stable and lives independently 1 year after treatment with mood-stabilizing medications.
“Conclusion: This case provides evidence for successful treatment of refractory depressive symptoms after severe TBI with the addition of rTMS to psychotherapy and mood-stabilizing medications, supporting the safety and tolerability of this novel therapeutic approach. Further studies are needed to validate the contribution of rTMS for management of mood symptoms in patients with TBI.”
Jason O., Patient at BTC Newport Beach, Explains How MeRT Helped Him to Get His Life Back After Suffering a Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussion Causes Altered Activity of Neural Circuits
New research is confirming that factors resulting from a concussion do cause changes in brain function, including altered activity of certain neural circuits in the brain.
Patients who are suffering from a Concussion or Traumatic Brain Injury have markers that are visible in their EEG studies. MeRT(sm) is a treatment protocol that has evolved from TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). MeRT, through the use of quantitative EEG, is able to see EXACTLY what is going on in your brain and individualize treatment for each patient based on their exact needs. Once your qEEG is completed, you will be able to SEE the dysregulation in your study. This scientific approach is unique to each person.
MeRT is customized to each individual’s needs based on the results of the EEG and EKG. We tailor the treatment protocol based on the location, frequency, and amount of power used by the magnet. This technology works by using a magnetic coil to neuromodulate the brain’s electrical activity. We perform a quantitative EEG on each patient in order to determine the exact frequency of the brain. These results are then reviewed and evaluated by our clinician, Kayleigh Prowse, FNP. Please note that Dr. Julie Kim, oversees all treatment for each patient.
Because treatment is customized specifically for you, this can lead to significant clinical improvements. Many of our patients are able to feel better and stop taking their medications!
This treatment is a very safe and gentle therapy. MeRT is a cutting-edge treatment process that combines TMS, a Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG), and an Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to analyze and formulate treatments that are tailored to each individual’s unique brain pattern.
MeRT is an emerging technology that aims to improve brain function and communication. The equipment used is FDA-cleared to treat Major Depressive Disorder and OCD and is used off-label to treat a wide variety of conditions, including TBI and Concussions.
Feel Yourself Again
In the ensuing months after the concussion, I just wasn’t myself… My academics began to suffer as well. I didn’t feel right. My EEG showed me that something had physically changed with how my brain functioned. After three days of treatment, I felt substantially better. After two weeks, I felt like I did before my injury. MeRT was life-changing.” – 21-year old female with TBI, Collegiate Soccer Player, Jan 2019
I’m two or three months past my last treatment and I can honestly say that my brain is in a better place than it was before. The emotional highs and lows that I was living with have been stabilized. My cognition took off during that period (of treatment) and it hasn’t slowed down since.”
– Nick Hardwig, Retired NFL Center, Chargers
Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More
(949) 418-1108
(Or fill in the form below and we will contact you.)
If you are interested in learning how MeRT can help with recovery from a traumatic brain injury, you don’t have to decide anything right away
We understand that you might not have heard about MeRT before, and as a result, may feel uncertain whether this treatment may be right for you. To take the first step, all you need to do is contact our New Patient Coordinator for a simple phone conversation. During this no-obligation consultation, she can answer your questions, and you can discuss the symptoms you are experiencing. Additionally, she will go over protocols and fees and give you a better understanding of what to expect from treatment.
After speaking with our New Patient Coordinator, if you would like to further explore treatment, we will set you up first for your EEG/EKG, followed by a consultation with our clinician, Kayleigh Prowse, FNP. Both appointments take about 45 minutes. During the appointment, Kayleigh can go over your results with you, including your EEG, which will show you exactly where in YOUR brain dysregulation is occurring. Please note that Dr. Julie Kim, Medical Director, oversees treatment for each individual patient.
First Appointment
At the first appointment, our neuro-technician will perform an EEG and an EKG. Both are simple, painless, and non-invasive tests to see exactly what is happening in your brain. At the second appointment, a few days later, when your test results are in and analyzed, you will have a one-on-one consultation with the doctor. If you are unsure whether MeRT is the treatment for you, Dr. Lee can go over your results and let you know how MeRT can benefit you. There is no hard sales pitch and no obligations.
Should you decide to move forward with treatment, we will schedule you first for an assessment period of treatment to see how you respond. This assessment is 2-weeks long. During the first week, you will attend treatment Monday – Friday, and the second will attend Monday – Thursday. On that final Friday, we will repeat the qEEG/EKG to analyze how you are responding. By this time, you will have begun to feel some changes taking place as well.
Following the assessment period, if you are responding well to treatment, we recommend an additional four to six weeks of treatment to realize the full benefits from MeRT, and for the treatment to be long-lasting.
Get Back to Life!
I’m back! My TBI turned me into someone I barely recognized. I was depressed, mean, and short-tempered. Having to push through life filled with frustration and a deep sense of sadness that this was it. I just had to keep pushing through life with an overwhelming tiredness. I’m so glad I was wrong. I think my direct reports and family are even more thankful. This treatment changed everything, and I am forever thankful.” – 41-year old male with TBI, Executive, Nov 2017
Contact Our New Patient Coordinator for Additional Information about Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment!
It’s normal for patients and their families affected by brain disorders to feel alone, frustrated, and hopeless. However, we know that there is hope. That’s because MeRT is a treatment protocol that has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and get a whole new lease on life.
We understand what you are going through. Our goal is to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child.
Many of our clinicians and technicians have gone through MeRT treatment and have experienced incredible results firsthand. As a result, they are passionate about helping you to heal too.
Our New Patient Coordinator is available to answer any questions that you may have about how MeRT can help you specifically. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease. She can also assist in getting you scheduled with the clinic should you decide to move forward with treatment.
Call Our New Patient Coordinator
Or fill in the Form below
For more information or to book a Consultation.Contact Us
Insurance Coverage and Payment Options for Traumatic Brain Injury
We are an in-network provider with TRICARE. If you have TRICARE insurance, it is possible that your policy may provide coverage, depending on your specific situation. Our New Patient Coordinator can discuss this with you in further detail.
For all other insurance, we are out of network and cannot file an insurance claim on your behalf. We can, however, provide you with the paperwork at the end of your treatment, which you can submit to your insurance company to see if they may provide you with any reimbursement. Please note that we are unable to treat patients who have Medicare or Medicaid.
Currently, rTMS is FDA cleared for Depression and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.) Treatment for all other conditions is considered “off-label.” However, for non-FDA-approved treatment, it is not likely that insurance will provide reimbursement for our protocols.
Some patients have reported that they have been able to receive some reimbursement for EEGs or clinical evaluations. But this depends on their health coverage. Medicare patients have reported that their coverage provides no reimbursement for MeRT.
We take all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Care Credit is also an option to help finance medical expenses. This is a separate company from The Brain Treatment Center in Newport Beach. Care Credit is a credit card that can cover medical expenses and services. They typically offer zero-interest financing for 12 months.
Usually, when you go to the Care Credit website and apply, they will promptly let you know your approval status.
Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More
(949) 418-1108
