Cognitive Based Neuroscience Tools is an evidence-based 4-session program that teaches individuals using proven evidence-based tools how to better manage headaches and other persistent symptoms following concussion. The goal is to improve the quality of life while recovering from a concussion.
During this program, individuals will:
- Learn how pain and other symptoms work within your nervous system.
- Learn different branches of the nervous system and how they correlate to stress, pain, dizziness, etc.
- Learn breathing techniques and progressive muscle relaxation exercises to reduce stress and manage persistent symptoms.
- Learn proven mindfulness exercises to address the emotional component of symptoms/stress and reduce the emotional charge to one's symptoms.
- Introduce the concept of graded exposure to activities that one may be avoiding due to the prediction of pain.
- Individualized meditation techniques are specific to one's pain experience.
- Use HRV biofeedback to see how these techniques can affect one's physiology.
- Work with a Licensed Physical Therapist trained in these evidence-based techniques.
This program is useful for:
- People experiencing persistent symptoms following concussion.
- Individuals experiencing symptoms that are higher or longer lasting than expected based on their injury.
Session 1: Explanation of concussion and subclassifications, Education on sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Nervous System. Biofeedback and introduction to breathing exercises.
Session 2: Pain neuroscience education (DIMS and SIMS). Bodyscan using biofeedback.
Session 3: Mindfulness exercises to decrease emotional charge to symptoms and intro to graded exposure.
Session 4: Breathing and meditation training with HRV biofeedback.
Following this 4-session program, individuals will better understand their nervous system and how it relates to their symptom experience. Patients will be proficient with self-regulation and mindfulness tools with the ability to see how these exercises affect their physiologic response using HRV biofeedback.
This evidence-based program can be a great adjunct to an existing physical therapy, massage, and exercise program.
