Blog Post

Concussion Crisis: What Doctors Aren't Telling You

  • By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team
  • •
  • 05 Feb, 2025

Our very own, Dr. Evan Mladenoff, was a special guest on the Macklin Connection podcast discussing the topic of concussions. Click the image below to listen or visit the source link at the bottom on the page.

Dr. Mladenoff began by illustrating the complexity of concussions through a series of personal anecdotes involving his family. He emphasized that concussions can happen not just in sports but in everyday situations like car accidents or simple falls. Importantly, Dr. M explained that one doesn’t need to hit their head to suffer a concussion. Instead, it’s the sudden movement of the brain inside the skull—the so-called 'sloshing'—that is the root cause.

Symptoms and Implications of Concussions

A key point raised was the variability and subtlety of concussion symptoms. Concussions are not only about immediate headaches or disorientation; they can lead to longer-term issues such as hormonal imbalances, sleep disruptions, and emotional disturbances. Dr. Mladenoff explained that symptoms might not appear immediately and can exacerbate over time if not properly treated. He used compelling analogies, likening the brain to Jell-O and explaining the 'exceeding metabolic capacity' that can lead to significant challenges in daily functioning.

Diagnosing and Treating Concussions

Addressing the common misbelief that a week is enough recovery time, Dr. Mladenoff suggested that recovery can range from a month to even a year. He highlighted the need for thorough functional testing and a tailored recovery plan. Surprisingly, less than 5% of those who suffer head trauma lose consciousness, and yet many of these undiagnosed cases go on to suffer long-term consequences.

For parents, athletes, and educators, understanding the comprehensive impact of a concussion is essential. Dr. M stressed the importance of confronting the crisis of getting back into activities too quickly. He cited the necessity of a realistic and gradual return-to-play protocol and expressed concern over the lack of awareness and preparation among some healthcare providers.

Practical Advice for Parents and Patients

From a practical standpoint, Dr. Mladenoff advised parents to actively engage with healthcare providers by asking specific questions about their examination and treatment capabilities. His book includes a list of such questions, ensuring families receive the best possible care. Additionally, Dr. Mladenoff emphasized interviewing doctors to understand their approaches to handling concussion cases thoroughly.

‍

Understanding concussions requires moving beyond traditional perceptions of head injuries. Dr. Mladenoff’s contributions provide a comprehensive look at the impact, diagnosis, and treatment of concussions. This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in sports, education, or health care, and it underscores the importance of informed and proactive health management. Be sure to check out DR. MLADENOFF’S BOOK and the forthcoming "Concussionology" podcast series to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to handle post-concussion procedures and promote better health outcomes.

Episode Summary

Concussion Crisis: What Doctors Aren't Telling You

Ron and Deb sat down with returning guest Dr. Mladenoff, a leading expert in concussion care, to discuss his new book which delves into the intricacies of diagnosing, treating, and understanding this serious health issue. Dr. Mladenoff shares personal experiences with concussions, both within his family and professionally, highlighting the physical, emotional, and long-term cognitive effects.
All credits go to SOURCE.

Understanding The Power Of Chiropractic

By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • January 6, 2025
Each time a chiropractor adjusts someone’s spine, we replace the negative information that is flooding the brain with positive information. This recalibrates the brain to help stop the release of chronic stress hormones and allows overall health and healing to occur. Every time a person receives a chiropractic adjustment, it positively affects the brain and nervous system. This positive effect on the brain promotes a state of ease and well-being within the body.

A Grateful Mind Opens Up A Loving Heart

By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • December 5, 2024
You have more vitality when you are grateful for all you are, do, and have. Learn how to operate from a state of appreciation and gratitude in this month's Wellness Blog. It is not only the secret of fulfillment, but it’s also the secret of decreasing the editing, fractions, side-bending, and wanderings in life.

Birth Trauma: Why Infants Need Chiropractic Care

By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • November 2, 2024
Birth is Hard Work for Baby, Too. “Several moms have told me, ‘He just won’t feed from that side, and cries whenever we try.’ They haven’t considered that it might be painful for their baby to turn his head to do so.” Read this month's wellness blog about WHY Chiro care is important for infants.

Is Your Child’s Backpack A Source Of Spinal Stress?

By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • October 1, 2024
While backpacks are one of the most convenient and frequently used ways to carry books and school supplies, there are numerous precautions for selection and use. Doctors of Chiropractic have been offering constructive suggestions about this issue for many years. Wearing backpacks improperly or carrying ones that are too heavy put children at increased risk for spinal injury. Read more in this month's Wellness Blog.

Nutrition Tips To Help Students Improve Concentration And Focus

By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • September 10, 2024
Increased screen time, lower social activity, and heightened stress has highlighted the growing problem of students’ inability to focus at school. Kids of all ages depend on a solid diet of whole foods to support their psychological, emotional, and physical health, in this month's wellness blog we dive into why a balanced plate of whole foods rich in brain-supportive nutrients, avoiding food dyes, and considering supplementation when necessary is important and how it can help your children greatly increase their focus, concentration, and overall wellbeing.

Cross-Brain Fitness

By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • August 5, 2024
Many of you participate in summer travel and actives. Whether you are hiking up north or enjoying the waters of another state to escape the Arizona heat, keep in mind that certain activities can boost your brain power. This month we explore ways you can activate both hemispheres of your brain while enjoying some summer fun. Continue reading to explore more about Brain Training.
Show More
Share by: