Concussions + Brain Health
Enhance Brain Function
Acupuncture has been increasingly explored as a complementary therapy for brain rehab
Electroacupuncture enhances traditional acupuncture with gentle electrical currents, promoting faster recovery and improved results.
This therapy is highly effective for reducing chronic pain by stimulating nerves and muscles to relieve tension and discomfort.
The intensity and frequency of the electrical currents are tailored to your specific condition, ensuring a personalized healing experience.
Electroacupuncture provides a safe, non-invasive alternative for treating a wide range of conditions, from pain to stress relief.
From Brain To Toe
Jackpuncture offers a combination of orthopedic, medical, and traditional acupuncture to help address the brain. Here’s a list of what we can help treat.
Acupuncture has been increasingly explored as a complementary therapy for the management of dementia. At Jackupuncture, we do not diagnose dementia or any form of Alzheimer’s, but we do use several tools, including WAVi EEG, to track patients’ brain health and performance. Our PeakMIND services can help maintain higher levels of cognition, slowing the progression of cognitive decline. The PeakMIND patients we’ve helped with previous diagnoses of dementia and Alzheimer’s have shown significant improvements in EEG and neurocognitive tests. In fact, the neurological changes in one PeakMIND patient with dementia were shown to be comparable as the 2-year results of a pharmacological intervention used for younger patients with mild cognitive impairment.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a broad term that encompasses a range of cognitive impairments, such as difficulties with memory, thinking, and decision-making, that can hinder everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, but it’s important to note that dementia is not a singular disease, but rather a general description of cognitive decline.
Along with the normal physical changes we experience as we age, there will be some memory changes, as well. These changes may manifest as occasionally misplacing car keys, struggling to find a word but recalling it later, forgetting the name of an acquaintance, or forgetting recent events.
However, knowledge and experiences accumulated over years, old memories, and language skills typically remain intact during normal aging. It’s common for older adults to retain their cognitive abilities and maintain their mental faculties despite these minor memory changes.
Dementia Symptoms
Due to the broad nature of dementia, its symptoms can vary greatly from one person to another. Individuals with dementia often experience challenges with memory, attention, communication, reasoning, judgment, problem-solving, and visual perception, which may go beyond typical age-related changes in vision.
Signs that may indicate the presence of dementia can include getting lost in a familiar neighborhood, using unusual words to refer to familiar objects, forgetting the name of a close family member or friend, struggling with old memories, and facing difficulties in completing tasks independently.
Acupuncture for dementia patients can be a powerful complementary therapy to enhance cognitive function and slow down the above symptoms of cognitive decline.
More and more studies are being conducted to investigate the potential of acupuncture as a complementary therapy for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. At Jackupuncture, we do not diagnose dementia or any form of Alzheimer’s disease, but we do use several tools, including WAVi EEG, to track patients’ brain health and performance. Our PeakMIND services can help maintain higher levels of cognition, slowing the progression of cognitive decline. The patients we’ve helped with previous diagnoses of Alzheimer’s and dementia have shown significant improvements in neurocognitive tests and EEG scans, including the reconnection of neurons whose loss of connection is associated with Alzheimer’s.
Our approach in acupuncture for Alzheimer’s disease involves adjusting our PeakMIND treatment, applying a specific combination of sound and electrical stimulation that has been shown to reduce amyloid plaque and improve cognitive function. Our patients also receive a particular form of infrared therapy that has been shown to reduce amyloid plaque. These specific adjustments make PeakMIND an effective multi-modal approach for maintaining cognitive function for individuals with mild cognitive impairment, as well as Alzheimer’s disease.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually impairs memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform even basic tasks. Typically, symptoms of the late-onset type of Alzheimer’s tend to manifest in individuals who are in their mid-60s or older. However, early-onset Alzheimer’s, which is relatively rare, can occur between a person’s 30s and mid-60s.
As the most common cause of dementia among older adults, Alzheimer’s disease poses significant challenges to cognitive health and daily functioning. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s, seek proper medical evaluation and care, and adopt strategies to manage the condition effectively. Early detection and intervention can play a crucial role in managing Alzheimer’s disease and improving the quality of life for affected individuals and their caregivers.
Two major hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease in brain tissue are the presence of abnormal clumps known as amyloid plaques and tangled bundles of fibers called neurofibrillary tangles. In addition to these plaques and tangles, Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the loss of connections between nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain. Neurons play a crucial role in transmitting messages between different regions of the brain and to various muscles and organs in the body. Other complex changes in the brain are also believed to contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s Symptoms
The initial damage in Alzheimer’s disease tends to occur in areas of the brain associated with memory, such as the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus. Over time, it can also affect other regions of the cerebral cortex responsible for language, reasoning, social behavior, and more. Ultimately, multiple areas of the brain can be impacted by the progressive damage associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Along with the normal physical changes we experience as we age, there will be some memory changes, as well. These changes may manifest as occasionally misplacing car keys, struggling to find a word but recalling it later, forgetting the name of an acquaintance, or forgetting recent events. Alzheimer’s has triggered depression for some people, as they notice their cognitive decline.
However, knowledge and experiences accumulated over years, old memories, and language skills typically remain intact during normal aging. It’s common for older adults to retain their cognitive abilities and maintain their mental faculties despite these minor memory changes.
Acupuncture for Alzheimer’s patients can be a powerful complementary therapy to enhance cognitive function and slow down the above symptoms of cognitive decline.
Depression is a serious mood disorder that can make a significant negative impacts in a person’s emotions, mood, thoughts, and ability to work and carry out daily activities as simple as sleep or eat. To receive a diagnosis of depression, symptoms must persist for at least 2 weeks.
There are different types of depression, some of which may arise due to specific circumstances. Depression can affect individuals of all ages, races, ethnicities, and genders. Depression can also be linked to a traumatic event.
Depression Symptoms
If you have been experiencing the following signs and symptoms nearly every day, for most of the day, for at least 2 weeks, you may be suffering from depression:
- Persistent sadness, anxiety, or emptiness
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Irritability, frustration, or restlessness
- Guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities and hobbies
- Decreased energy, fatigue, or slowed-down feeling
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Sleep difficulties, such as trouble sleeping, waking up early, or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite or weight without planned changes
- Physical symptoms like aches, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems with no clear physical cause and not relieved by treatment
- Thoughts of death, suicide, or suicide attempts
It’s important to note that not everyone with depression experiences all these symptoms. Some may have only a few, while others may have several. These symptoms can significantly disrupt daily functioning and cause distress to the person experiencing them.
Depression may also manifest in other changes in mood or behavior, including:
- Increased anger or irritability
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Withdrawal from social activities or negativity
- Increased engagement in high-risk behaviors
- Greater impulsivity
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Isolation from family and friends
- Inability to fulfill work and family responsibilities or neglecting important roles
- Problems with sexual desire and performance
Due to the negative impact of depression on self-perception and worldview, some individuals may also experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm. A diagnosis of depression typically requires the presence of persistent symptoms, in addition to low mood, but even those with a few symptoms may benefit from treatment to prevent further issues. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms can vary depending on the individual, the type of depression, and the stage of the illness.
Seeking treatment for PTSD can be crucial in reducing the severity of symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Acupuncture for PTSD has been shown to be a safe and effective complementary therapy for decreasing patients’ symptoms and improving their daily lives. While we do not diagnose PTSD at Jackupuncture, we do use the PCL-5 to track progress for patients who may be suffering from PTSD. The PCL-5 is a self-reported questionnaire that corresponds to the symptom criteria for PTSD. Our PeakMIND patients regularly show significant improvements in their PCL-5 scores, often going from clinically significant scores before treatment to minimal or no symptoms after.
What Is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can be triggered by a deeply distressing event. Common symptoms of PTSD may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event.
While many individuals may experience temporary difficulty adjusting and coping after a traumatic event, most are able to recover with time and self-care. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or significantly disrupt daily functioning for months or even years, it may indicate the presence of PTSD.
PTSD Symptoms
PTSD symptoms are typically categorized into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. These symptoms may vary over time or differ from person to person.
Intrusive memories can include:
- Recurrent, distressing memories of the traumatic event that are unwanted
- Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again through flashbacks
- Upsetting dreams or nightmares related to the traumatic event
- Experiencing severe emotional distress or physical reactions when reminded of the traumatic event
Avoidance can look like:
- Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event
- Avoiding places, activities, or people that serve as reminders of the traumatic event
Negative changes in thinking and mood may involve:
- Having negative thoughts about oneself, others, or the world
- Feeling hopeless about the future
- Experiencing memory problems, including difficulty remembering important aspects of the traumatic event
- Struggling with maintaining close relationships
- Feeling emotionally detached from family and friends, depressed
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Having difficulty experiencing positive emotions
- Feeling emotionally numb
Changes in physical and emotional reactions (arousal symptoms) include:
- Being easily startled or frightened
- Constantly being on guard for danger
- Engaging in self-destructive behavior, such as excessive drinking or reckless driving
- Having trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Experiencing irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior
- Feeling overwhelmed with guilt or shame
Acupuncture is commonly sought for anxiety and is quite successful in helping patients suffering from the various symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. While we do not diagnose anxiety at Jackupuncture, we do use the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) and GAD-7 to track progress for patients who may be suffering from anxiety. HAM-A and GAD-7 are self-reported questionnaires that rate a patient’s anxiety symptoms. Our PeakMIND patients regularly show significant improvements on both, HAM-A and GAD-7.
Sleep plays an important role in good mental health, and can be an additional hurdle for those experiencing anxiety. That’s why it’s always great to hear so many PeakMIND patients report improvements in sleep. By helping improve patients’ quantity and quality of sleep, PeakMIND increases the opportunity for the various processes necessary for brain and body restoration to take place, helping put better mental health in reach for people experiencing anxiety. As sleep plays such a vital part in mental and physical health, we also try to support all patients with guidance on sleep hygiene and lifestyle changes, as well as professional referrals whenever necessary. The improvements in sleep PeakMIND patients regularly report can benefit everyone experiencing physical and mental health issues.
It’s common for individuals to experience occasional anxiety as a normal part of life. Concerns about health, finances, or family matters can trigger worry or fear in many people. However, anxiety disorders go beyond temporary worry or fear, as the anxiety persists and may worsen over time. Some patients may experience anxiety after head trauma like concussions, mild TBI or other forms of physical trauma like whiplash. That’s why it is part of the assessment involved in our Brain and Concussion Care Consult.
The symptoms associated with anxiety disorders can significantly interfere with daily activities, such as work performance, schoolwork, and relationships.
There are various types of anxiety disorders: from generalized anxiety disorder, to social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and even phobia-related disorders. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) typically involves persistent feelings of anxiety or dread that can disrupt daily life. It is distinct from occasional worry or anxiety triggered by stressful life events. Individuals with GAD may experience frequent anxiety for extended periods, ranging from months to years.
Symptoms of Anxiety (i.e. GAD)
- Restlessness, feeling wound-up, or being on-edge
- Easily becoming fatigued
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or unexplained pains
- Difficulty controlling worries
- Sleep problems, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Whiplash is commonly experienced in sports and motor vehicle accidents. These accidents can result in much more than stiffness and neck pain. The forces and trauma involved in sports and motor vehicle accidents can impact the nervous system and brain in unique and significant ways, possibly leading to concussion or concussion-like symptoms. At Jackupuncture, we understand this and provide a more thorough assessment specifically for patients who have been in sports and motor vehicle accidents or who experience specific symptoms along with neck pain and stiffness.
Common signs that you may be experiencing more severe whiplash include neck pain and stiffness along with new symptoms like dizziness, brain fog, sensitivity to light, fatigue, anxiety, or dislike of crowds. This isn’t a comprehensive list, and these new symptoms may come on days to weeks after the accident. Some research suggests that the symptoms of head trauma may not become apparent until 7-10 years after the accident itself.
If you have sought help for neck pain and stiffness in the past without relief and are experiencing any other symptoms like those described above, you likely require a very different treatment approach than what you’ve been offered. At Jackupuncture, we specialize in these kinds of assessments and treatments. We’d be happy to be of service.
Whiplash is a type of neck injury that happens when the neck is forcefully and rapidly moved back-and-forth. It is commonly caused by rear-end car accidents, but can also occur due to sports accidents, physical abuse, falls, and other types of traumas. Whiplash is often referred to as a neck sprain or strain, although these terms can encompass other neck injuries as well.
Whiplash Symptoms
Whiplash symptoms often appear within days of the injury. Symptoms can include neck pain and/or stiffness, pain with neck movements, loss of neck range of motion, headaches (often starting at the base of the skull), tenderness or pain in the shoulder, upper back or arms, tingling or numbness in the arms, fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), memory issues, sleep disturbances, irritability, difficulties with concentration, and depression.
Whiplash and Concussion
Many of the issues associated with whiplash overlap with those of concussion. Concussions will often include some form of whiplash, but not all cases of whiplash will involve concussion. A thorough assessment is required to determine if a patient’s injury meets the criteria of a concussion for brain injury rehabilitation.
On the positive side, most people with whiplash recover within a few weeks with pain medication and gentle exercise. However, some individuals may experience chronic neck pain and other long-lasting complications. In these cases, we would recommend patients schedule a Brain and Concussion Care Consult.
In the case of concussion following whiplash, patients are encouraged to follow an individualized rehab program while undergoing their PeakMIND series. In such cases, patients may receive rehab exercises focusing on their particular needs or be referred to another healthcare provider specializing in a particular form of rehab for complementary care while completing their PeakMIND series.
In the case of whiplash without concussion, patients can undergo orthopedic or other forms of acupuncture to help reduce their pain, improve their range of motion, and manage other symptoms related to the injury.
Migraines and headaches can be the result of multiple different health and environmental factors. Fortunately, many of these can be addressed by a combination of therapies available at Jackupuncture, including orthopedic acupuncture and dry needling. We have great success treating headaches and migraines, which can include addressing related muscular dysfunction and trigger points; using electroacupuncture to increase blood flow to the head and improve autonomic nervous system function; providing nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle guidance to support your body’s overall health.
We regularly assist patients with migraines and headaches, helping them end daily use of medications and returning to the things they love with fewer or no symptoms. In some cases, patients who experience significant relief without full resolution may want to consider scheduling a Brain and Concussion Care Consult to more fully address their needs, as there may be other issues related to systems of the brain that need to be addressed. Fortunately, we are equipped with the tools to assess and address headaches due to peripheral (body, nervous system) and central (brain) issues which provides the opportunity for a much greater rate of success.
Acupuncture is commonly sought for anxiety and is quite successful in helping patients suffering from the various symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. While we do not diagnose anxiety at Jackupuncture, we do use the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) and GAD-7 to track progress for patients who may be suffering from anxiety. HAM-A and GAD-7 are self-reported questionnaires that rate a patient’s anxiety symptoms. Our PeakMIND patients regularly show significant improvements on both, HAM-A and GAD-7.
Sleep plays an important role in good mental health, and can be an additional hurdle for those experiencing anxiety. As sleep plays such a pivotal part in mental and overall health, we try to support all patients with guidance on sleep hygiene and lifestyle changes, as well as professional referrals whenever necessary. The improvements in sleep PeakMIND patients regularly report benefit everyone experiencing physical and mental health issues. By helping improve patients’ quantity and quality of sleep, PeakMIND increases the opportunity for the various processes necessary for brain and body restoration to take place, helping put better mental health in reach for people experiencing anxiety.
What best describes your visit today?
PAIN
Break Free of Pain
BRAIN
Concussion Rehab & Peak Performance
SPORTS
Recover Faster & Become Your Baddest Self
HEALTH
Concussion Rehab & Peak Performance
