The Concussion Nerds Podcast

The Art of Concussion Assessment: Are You Missing Key Pieces?

Alright, friends—let's talk about concussion assessment. In an ideal world, I would have waited until my voice was back to its full, non-froggy self before recording this episode, but here we are. This is the best I've sounded in days, so you're getting my raspy, slightly hoarse version today!

In this episode, we're breaking down one of the biggest gaps I see in clinical practice: incomplete concussion assessments. Too often, clinicians assess within their area of expertise and miss critical pieces—whether it's the autonomic system, vestibular function, or another key component. We need to step back, zoom out, and ensure we're assessing ALL systems, not just the ones we're most comfortable with.

We'll dive into: ✅ Why a true multi-system approach starts with assessment ✅ The most commonly overlooked factors in concussion evaluation ✅ How your own clinical bias might be leading to gaps in assessment ✅ The essential subjective and objective tools every provider should be using ✅ Why rushing to treatment before full assessment can create frustration (for both you and your client!)

If you're serious about improving your concussion assessments and getting better results for your clients, this one's for you.

Let's connect!

Instagram:

@concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/

@natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbook https://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1

🎤 Did you hear? The next live Rethink Rehab workshop is happening February 28th at 9 AM PT! If you're a PT, chiro, AT, acupuncturist, or health professional looking to build confidence in concussion care, this is your chance. You'll get a deep dive into my Concussion Nerds Framework with lifetime access to the replay! Grab your spot here.

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Episode Sponsor: JANE APP

To learn more about how Jane's intake forms can help, head to jane.app/guide to book a 1-on-1 demo with a member of their team. If you're ready to get started, you can use the code SYMPHONY1MO at the time of sign-up to get a 1-month grace period applied to your new account.

When it comes to concussion care, are you relying solely on the Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS)? If so, you might be missing critical pieces of the puzzle! In this episode of Concussion Nerds, Natasha Wilch introduces Dr. Rachel Parker—a chiropractor, concussion expert, and fellow nerd—who's here to share her journey and expertise. Together, they dive into the nuances of concussion assessment and why a comprehensive approach is non-negotiable for effective treatment.

The VOMS is an incredible screening tool, but it's just that—a screen. If you're treating concussion patients based on these results alone, you're likely overlooking essential details, slowing recovery, and prolonging your clients' struggles.

Dr. Natasha and Dr. Rachel explore why a deeper understanding of systems like the vestibular and oculomotor is vital for creating tailored, effective treatment plans. They also share insights on bridging the gap between neuroanatomy and practice, making complex concepts actionable in your clinic.

• Why the VOMS is a great starting point but not the finish line.

• How comprehensive multi-system assessments can fast-track concussion recovery.

• The key role neuroanatomy plays in understanding and treating concussions.

• Practical tips for elevating your concussion care beyond symptom-based evaluations.

Let's keep the conversation going! Share your thoughts on today's episode and tag us on social media.

Instagram:

@concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/

@natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/

Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbook https://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Episode Sponsor: JANE APP

To learn more about how Jane's intake forms can help, head to jane.app/guide to book a 1-on-1 demo with a member of their team. If you're ready to get started, you can use the code SYMPHONY1MO at the time of sign-up to get a 1-month grace period applied to your new account.

Are you still treating concussions with a one-size-fits-all approach? 🤔

Many clinicians unknowingly rely on outdated methods like checklists or cookie-cutter plans. But what if I told you that could be doing your clients a disservice? Concussions are the ultimate "invisible injury," and no two are alike. It's time to rethink how we approach rehab.

• Why concussions are no longer graded or classified as mild to severe—and what you should focus on instead.

• The seven different concussion profiles and how they impact recovery.

• How factors like stress, sleep, and even the brain you bring into the injury can affect outcomes.

• Why proactive brain health is the ultimate insurance policy for you and your clients.

Concussions aren't just complex—they're dynamic, requiring individualized care at every stage. If you're ready to level up your rehab game and deliver results for your clients, join me for the Rethink Rehab Workshop on January 24th. You'll get lifetime access, live updates, and tools to help you navigate this challenging yet rewarding field.

👉 Click here to register now before the price increases!

Let's make the invisible visible—and change how we care for concussions. See you next week, Concussion Nerds! 🎙️

Let's connect!

Instagram:

@concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/

@natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/

Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbook https://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Are you feeling lost in the maze of social media buzzwords—dysautonomia, FND, or POTS—without clear guidance on what's actually going on with your body? Maybe you've been told to try one-size-fits-all solutions, like endless supplements or generic online programs, only to find yourself more confused and out of pocket.

It's infuriating to see vulnerable populations being taken advantage of by flashy marketing or oversimplified solutions. The truth is, there's no magic pill for concussion recovery—it's a multi-layered, highly individualized process that demands expertise, collaboration, and real human connection.

Let's talk truth bombs, spicy takes, and breaking free from the misinformation overload surrounding concussion care. In this episode, Natasha chats with the brilliant and fiery Dr. Michelle Eisenmann, a chiropractic neurologist who's unafraid to call out the BS in the field. From unmasking the buzzword traps to advocating for genuine, patient-centered care, Michelle shares her bold perspective on what it takes to truly heal from concussions—and why collaboration and personalized care are non-negotiable.

Dr. Michelle Eisenmann attended Parker University where she earned her Doctorate degree in Chiropractic, her masters degree in clinical neurology and fellowship. She has a bachelors in Kinesiology from the University of North Texas and is a diplomate for the American Chiropractic Neurology Board.

She has also completed additional courses in neurological studies with an emphasis on neuroplasticity, traumatic brain injury, post stroke rehabilitation, vestibular dysfunction, dysautonomia and more.

Due to her own health and family history Dr. Eisenmann has a passion for healthy lifestyles. After battling with her own health concerns and family concerns involving cancers, polyneuropathies, neurodegenerative diseases to name a few. She dedicated herself to helping others as well. When she is not working at the clinic she assists people with brain injuries by teaching them how to live a lifestyle that is supportive to recovery.

In her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and family, researching non toxic beauty products and learning how to play the ukulele. Being born and raised in Puerto Rico, Dr. Eisenmann offers services in both English and Spanish.

Dr. Eisenmann and Natasha are here to clear the fog. With their combined expertise in functional neurology and concussion recovery, they dive into actionable strategies, discuss why personalized care matters, and tackle the misinformation that's taking the internet by storm.

Episode Sponsor: JANE APP

To learn more about how Jane's intake forms can help, head to jane.app/guide to book a 1-on-1 demo with a member of their team. If you're ready to get started, you can use the code SYMPHONY1MO at the time of sign-up to get a 1-month grace period applied to your new account.

✨ Don't miss the Rethink Rehab Workshop —sign up before the founding price ends on January 23rd! ✨

Let's connect!

Instagram:

@concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/

@natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/

Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbook https://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Is Your Nervous System Out of Sync or Is It Dysautonomia?

Ever wonder if your constant fatigue, dizziness, or stress is a sign of something deeper? With social media throwing around terms like "nervous system dysregulation" and "dysautonomia" as if they're interchangeable, it's easy to feel confused. Spoiler: they're not the same—and knowing the difference can change your health game.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL LEARN:

• The real difference between nervous system dysregulation and dysautonomia.

• Why chronic stress is leaving so many of us stuck—and how to break free.

• What dysautonomia looks like, plus its connection to conditions like POTS.

• Simple tools you can use to support your nervous system and feel better.

If you've been spinning your wheels trying to figure out what's wrong or chasing trends that promise quick fixes, this episode is your map to clarity. We're cutting through the noise, giving you practical tips, and showing you how to truly support your body.

So, grab your headphones and join me as we break it all down.

✨ Don't miss the Rethink Rehab Workshop —sign up before the founding price ends on January 23rd! ✨

Let's connect!

Instagram:

@concussionnerds

@natasha.wilch h

Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbook

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Are you resisting the discomfort that comes with self-reflection?

Ignoring the restless feeling in your gut? You're not alone. We all crave clarity, but sometimes, sitting with discomfort feels nearly impossible.

Here's the truth: creating space for self-reflection isn't always cozy. It can be messy, frustrating, and downright uncomfortable—but it's also the birthplace of breakthroughs.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL LEARN:

• Why feeling "stuck" is often a signal for growth.

• The power of creating intentional space—even when it feels hard.

• How sitting with discomfort can lead to emotional release and clarity.

• Why your personal evolution is never "finished"—and that's a good thing.

Creating space for reflection may not solve all your problems overnight, but it will open doors to clarity, growth, and peace you never knew you needed. So, take a deep breath and lean in—you've got this.

Happy New Year, and I'll see you in 2025 with fresh insights and clinical deep dives!

✨ Don't miss the Rethink Rehab Workshop —sign up before the founding price ends on January 23rd! ✨

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Are you stuck in the endless cycle of doing it all, yet feeling like you're never really off-duty?

It's easy to tell yourself you'll "take a break," but how often do you really unplug? Let's face it—if the emails are rolling in, the clinic is open, or your to-do list is calling, true rest feels like a luxury you just can't afford.

Here's the hard truth: Without creating intentional space to slow down, disconnect, and reflect, you're setting yourself up for burnout—not brilliance.

The good news? It doesn't have to be this way. In today's episode, we're diving into how taking a purposeful pause can transform your energy, mindset, and productivity—not just for the holidays but for the entire year ahead.

• Why closing the clinic for a week benefits your team, clients, and you.

• The power of pausing to reflect on what worked (and what didn't) in the past year.

• How to identify the feelings you want to prioritize in 2025—and why that matters.

• A sneak peek into the exciting workshops and podcast episodes coming your way in the new year.

Ready to disconnect so you can reconnect with what truly matters? Tune in now and discover how to create space for the clarity and calm you've been craving.

✨ Don't miss the Rethink Rehab Workshop —sign up before the founding price ends on January 23rd! ✨

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Sponsor info: To see how Jane can help you free up your evenings from admin tasks, head to meet.jane.app/more-time to book a personalized demo. But, if you're ready to get started, you can use the code SYMPHONY1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account.

Have you ever felt like you're stuck in a cycle of managing the same symptoms over and over without real relief?

It's a trap many clinicians—and even those recovering from concussions—fall into: addressing the immediate symptoms without exploring the underlying drivers. While symptom management is valuable, stopping there can prevent true progress and transformation.

What if the path to long-term relief lies in discovering and addressing the root causes of your symptoms?

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER:

• The critical difference between managing symptoms and addressing their root causes.

• Why headaches, dizziness, and other post-concussion symptoms need more than a one-size-fits-all approach.

• How a holistic and multi-system framework transforms concussion care for both clinicians and patients.

• The importance of timing and prioritization in creating effective treatment plans.

Your healing journey—or that of your clients—deserves more than just a temporary fix. It's time to embrace strategies that uncover the why behind the symptoms and work toward sustainable results.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Click here to learn more about the Rethink Rehab workshop and secure your spot at a discounted price before December ends.

Are you stuck viewing your concussion anniversary as a marker of loss and struggle?

Acknowledging the date of your concussion can be an emotional experience, but focusing solely on what you've lost might keep you tethered to the past. If your concussion anniversary has become a day of negativity and despair, it's time to rethink its purpose.

Imagine turning that date into a moment of empowerment and celebration, a chance to reflect on your resilience, growth, and the milestones you've achieved—no matter how big or small.

• A new, empowering way to honor your concussion anniversary as a moment of progress rather than loss.

• How one client transformed their anniversary into an inspiring "Alive Day" tradition.

• Why creativity and resourcefulness matter in concussion rehabilitation (hello, automotive creeper idea!).

• A sneak peek into Rethink Rehab, the live workshop that will revolutionize how healthcare professionals approach concussion care.

Let's shift the narrative and use your concussion anniversary as a springboard for hope and transformation. 🎉 Ready to reframe your story? Tune in!

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

Click here to learn more about the Rethink Rehab workshop. https://www.natashawilch.com/offers/b9pxWa2X

Struggling to manage holiday gatherings, shopping, and traditions while coping with persistent concussion symptoms? Many of us are pulled into holiday obligations and expectations, but for those dealing with a concussion, these seasonal routines can be overwhelming and, at times, unmanageable.

Here's the truth: you don't have to do it all. In fact, navigating the holidays successfully with concussion symptoms is all about prioritizing and setting boundaries. Whether it's declining events, managing gift-giving, or adjusting how you participate, taking control of your holiday plans can reduce stress and keep your symptoms in check.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER:

• How to identify and prioritize holiday activities that truly bring you joy—without stretching yourself too thin.

• A practical exercise to help you assess each event's impact on your body and energy levels.

• Ways to simplify your holiday shopping and gift-wrapping without sacrificing the spirit of giving.

• Strategies to attend events on your terms by choosing the timing and duration that work for you.

This episode brings together insights and actionable tips that will empower you to celebrate the holidays in a way that supports your healing journey. If you're ready to make this season work for you, grab a notebook, and let's start planning!

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership