Beyond the Standard Protocol
Concussions are complex neurological and serious injuries that are the result of damaging forces that damage the brain and central nervous system (CNS). Anatomical brain structures injured by concussive events are currently not detectable by standard imaging techniques used in emergency and general medicine. As result, they are dubbed an “invisible injury” which has earned concussions the clinical and practical distinction of being very difficult to manage by even the most skilled doctors. Frustration experienced by individuals who have suffered a concussion is common, due to the many complexities surrounding the injury and their difficult management. Contemporary research has advanced our understanding about the cellular level, and functional injuries of concussions that impact the energy systems of the brain and body; the brain’s operating system; and the neural pathways that lead to specific parts of the brain and body.
Concussions interfere with daily lives, can derail careers, and have proven to be very difficult to manage. The concussion profile described above fits our own Dr. Jody who moved to New York in 1996 for his return to school at age 28, motivated with a personal objective to better understand the unresolved concussions that had impacted his own life for over a decade. In 2002, upon graduation he committed to investigate emerging and safe interventions that showed promise to help manage and resolve concussions and other neurologic disorders. This professional career pursuit led him back to Toronto, Canada where he partnered with a visionary MD to open 1-of Ontario’s first Integrative Medical offices, and separately to enter a four year Clinical Fellowship at Meditech, under retired vascular surgeon Fred Kahn, MD. He was a pioneer in the field of Photobiomodulation (laser therapy) and leader in the emerging field of modalities that promote Neuroregeneration, Neuroplasticity and healing at the level of the brain. Meditech was an early researcher into the safe outer limits of light therapy for use in healthcare, that attracted patients, doctors, government officials, and research and medical institutions from around the world, who were interested to learn about the then new technology and treatment approach. Jody’s clinical role was extended to include complementary research, protocol development and training for visiting researchers and professionals from medical and major sports organizations which provided excellent foundation to his own professional objectives.
During this period at Meditech, medical writer Gifford Jones, a widely read Canadian-trained MD and author was investigating laser therapy for its possible safe application for management of various conditions, including concussions. He wrote several articles about laser light therapy over the years, including an article (linked) he wrote about his findings related to concussions: https://torontosun.com/health/diet-fitness/ gifford-jones-low-intensity-laser-therapy-for-bruised-brains
In parallel to 20+ years of clinical practice, Dr. Jody Anderson has been committed to the ongoing scientific and independent investigation into the pathogenesis and practical management of concussions. Privileged access has led to a decade long relationship with top researchers including from Boston University’s CTE, PTSD & Alzheimer Labs, and Harvard’s Photobiomodulation lab. He proudly accepted an invitation from a mentor and Champion of concussion research, Dr. Peter Fowler who is a former Instructor and namesake of the world class Fowler-Kennedy Sports Medicine Clinic, at his Alma Mater University of Western Ontario. Jody was introduced to several key stakeholders and leading researchers, Sports Medicine leaders through his participation in The See The Line brain injury symposiums over past ten years. They are a world leading research-focused group that was generously supported with a significant financial gift, by retired NHLer, Eric Lindros, who has been advocating for improved diagnostic tools and concussion management solutions. The devoted Brain and Mind Instiute, Fowler-Kennedy, Schulich Medicine and Dentistry along with several faculties at Western are committed to better understanding sport related concussions, through collaboration and dedicated research. The combined collegial and professional activities have contributed significantly to our Team’s advanced understanding of concussions, and for the development of PBM protocols and application in clinical practice, which our own Dr. Anderson has shared with medical personnel in professional sport and from visiting Organizations from around the world. He continues to devote focused effort to a dedicated research group that is positioned ro investigate management solutions for brain related injuries and degenerative conditions.
Dr. Anderson worked as Clinical Fellow at Meditech in Toronto, Canada during the period when David Suzuki, of CBC’s Nature of Things and New York Bestselling Author and leading investigator into the mysteries of Neuroplasticity, Dr. Norman Doidge investigated emerging technologies including Photobiomodulation (laser light therapy) and its impact on brain health, including the burgeoning field of Neuroplasticity and healing after injuries including concussions. Below are links to The Nature of Things episodes, and to Dr. Doidge’s books (“The Brain that Changes Itself”, and “The Brain’s Way of Healing”) which can be found through his website, normandoidge.com. The YouTube link to the episode of CBC’s Nature of Things, that reports on the use of laser light therapy in various brain related disorders can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5A7rnw0MdZY
Clinical Objectives with Concussion
• Safe and full return to learning, work and normal activities
• Safe return-to-play for athletes in contact sports
• Reduced risk of long-term symptoms including brain fog,
energy issues, debilitating headaches memory and
cognitive deficits
Our Approach
• Understand the mechanism of injury
• Restore or support restoration of spine level stability
• Support reduction of neuroinflammation of brain and spine
• Promote and support neuroplasticity
Rehab Programs
Customized Plans that match requirements and objectives Graduated return-to-activities (sport, learning, work & life)
Global Collaboration
Dr. Anderson has been a part of the global scientific community for the past 20yrs that is investigating brain injury and he remains active in development of next-generation concussion management tools, with a focused interest in diagnosis and treatment.
Who We Help
• We help people who have an unresolved concussion
• We help people who have post-concussion syndrome
• Concussions from falls, sport, work and car accidents
Background
20+ Years of Concussion focus including with top researchers from Harvard, Boston University and Western University
2-decades managing care for Professional athletes from contact sports
Laser Therapy Advantage: Accelerates recovery significantly compared to rest alone
Pro-Level Network: Collaborates with other High Performance specialists who support holistic care
Direct Billing: HCAI, WSIB, and all major insurers accepted
FAQs
Q: How soon after a concussion should I seek treatment?
A: Immediately. Early intervention promotes healing and prevents longterm and chronic symptoms.
Q: Can laser therapy help with post-concussion headaches?
A: Yes. Headaches are a common presenting symptom that are addressed with management of neuroinflammation and restoration of cellular health.
Dr. Anderson is available in-clinic and for virtual consultation.
Booking appointments are completed through our website at southwestpainrelief.com or by phone at 519 354 4747
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