Healing a Concussed Mind: Cindy’s Journey to Recovery and the Protocols That Made It Possible
In May 2021, Cindy’s life took a sharp turn when she suffered her fifth concussion. This time, recovery wasn’t just about bouncing back—it was about rethinking her entire approach to healing. Concussions, especially recurrent ones, leave long-lasting effects on cognitive function, balance, and overall mental health. Cindy’s journey toward recovery offers a glimpse into the innovative therapies and immense discipline it takes to rebuild after such injuries.
For the first year following her concussion, Cindy committed to intensive rehabilitation at On With Life, an outpatient therapy center in Ankeny, Iowa. On With Life specializes in helping individuals recover from severe brain injuries, including concussions and comas. Cindy’s schedule was rigorous: three appointments a day, two to three times a week, with each session lasting 45 minutes.
Her day would start with physical therapy, focusing on balance exercises and treating her BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo). These exercises helped her regain basic functions like walking in a straight line. Next came occupational therapy, where she worked on cognitive challenges and eye movement therapy. Her neuropsychologist played a vital role in teaching her to manage short-term memory issues by creating systems and patterns that allowed her to work with clients despite her cognitive struggles. While this year of therapy was physically and mentally exhausting, it set a crucial foundation for her recovery.
In 2022, Cindy transitioned to working with Dr. Shawn Spooner, a former military physician specializing in concussion treatment at UnityPoint in Johnston, Iowa. Dr. Spooner introduced her to Alpha-Stim, a cranial electrotherapy stimulation device that promotes brainwave regulation and relaxation. Cindy complemented this therapy with binaural beats through an app called Brain Waves, which helps support brain health and improve sleep.
With this combined protocol, Cindy found a new rhythm in her recovery. Quality sleep, a nutrient-dense diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, regular exercise, and abstaining from alcohol became pillars of her routine. These lifestyle changes, paired with Alpha-Stim and binaural beats, significantly improved her cognitive function and overall brain health.
The journey wasn’t easy. Frequent migraines and dizziness plagued Cindy until September 2023, and fatigue often left her drained after therapy sessions. However, she persevered, using her experiences to inspire and guide her clients.
Cindy’s story also highlights the importance of addressing the mental health challenges that come with concussions. Tools like neuropsychology sessions, structured systems for daily life, and supportive therapies helped her regain confidence and functionality. She understands the discipline and hardship of recovery firsthand and uses that empathy to help others navigate their paths.
For those dealing with concussions, Cindy’s advice is clear: prioritize consistent, evidence-based therapies, surround yourself with supportive professionals, and commit to lifestyle changes that promote healing. Her experience shows that recovery is possible, even after repeated injuries, with the right combination of care and resilience.
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Resources:
Learn more about concussion therapies at On With Life.
Discover Alpha-Stim at Alpha-Stim.
Try the Brain Waves app: Brain Waves App.
Explore Dr. Shawn Spooner’s work at UnityPoint Health.
Schedule a session with Cindy at Hands On Sports Therapy.
