Posted on19 June 2025,in

Concussion Doctor Lakewood Ranch: When searching for a concussion doctor in Lakewood Ranch, finding a specialist who understands the intricate connection between head injuries and neck injuries is crucial. At our state-of-the-art chiropractic clinic in Lakewood Ranch, we specialize in upper cervical chiropractic care, offering advanced diagnostic tools like 3D CBCT imaging and Tytron functional nervous system scans to treat conditions such as post-concussion syndrome, whiplash, headaches, brain fog, migraines, and TMJ/TMD. Led by our expert doctors—Rusty Lavender, Jacob Temple, and Will Guzinski—we focus on addressing the root cause of these symptoms: misalignments in the upper cervical spine.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how head injuries always cause neck injuries, why upper cervical chiropractic is the best remedy for concussions, and how our cutting-edge technology and personalized care can help you reclaim your health. If you have been everywhere and you have lost hope that you will heal, we hope that you find comfort in knowing that with upper cervical chiropractic you can heal from debilitating neck injuries from concussions.

Understanding Post-Concussion Syndrome from a Concussion Doctor Lakewood Ranch

Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a complex condition that affects nearly 50% of individuals who suffer a head injury, whether minor or severe. Symptoms can persist for weeks, months, or even years after the initial trauma, impacting daily life. Common symptoms include persistent headaches, dizziness, brain fog, fatigue, sensitivity to light and sound, and emotional changes. PCS occurs when the brain’s communication pathways are disrupted, often due to lingering effects of the injury on the nervous system.

At our Lakewood Ranch clinic, we recognize that PCS is not solely a brain injury issue. Research shows that head injuries frequently cause neck injuries, particularly misalignments in the upper cervical spine (C1 and C2 vertebrae). These misalignments can impair blood flow, cerebrospinal fluid drainage, and nerve function, exacerbating PCS symptoms. Our approach, led by Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski, focuses on correcting these misalignments to restore proper neurological function and alleviate symptoms. By addressing the root cause, we help patients achieve lasting relief from post-concussion syndrome.

The Connection Between Head Injuries and Whiplash

Whiplash is a common injury associated with head trauma, often occurring during car accidents, sports collisions, or falls. It involves a rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck, which can strain muscles, ligaments, and vertebrae. Many individuals with concussions also experience whiplash, as the force that causes a head injury typically impacts the neck as well. This dual injury can lead to a cascade of symptoms, including neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.

The upper cervical spine is particularly vulnerable during whiplash injuries. Misalignments in the C1 (atlas) or C2 (axis) vertebrae can compress nerves, reduce blood flow to the brain, and disrupt cerebrospinal fluid dynamics. These disruptions contribute to persistent symptoms that may be misdiagnosed as solely brain-related. Our Lakewood Ranch concussion doctors use 3D CBCT imaging to precisely identify these misalignments, allowing us to create tailored treatment plans. Dr. Jacob Temple, with his expertise in upper cervical care, emphasizes that correcting these neck injuries is essential for full recovery from both whiplash and concussions.

Headaches: A Common Post-Concussion Symptom

Headaches are one of the most frequently reported symptoms following a concussion or whiplash injury. These can range from tension-type headaches to debilitating migraines, often accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound. Post-concussion headaches are typically caused by a combination of factors, including neurovascular dysfunction, muscle tension, and upper cervical misalignments.

Traditional treatments like painkillers or migraine medications may provide temporary relief but often fail to address the underlying cause. At our clinic, we take a different approach. Dr. Will Guzinski specializes in identifying how C1 and C2 misalignments contribute to headache pain. By using Tytron functional nervous system scans, we assess the nervous system’s function and pinpoint areas of dysfunction. Upper cervical chiropractic adjustments gently realign the spine, reducing pressure on nerves and improving blood flow, which can significantly reduce or eliminate headaches. Our patients in Lakewood Ranch often report rapid improvements in headache frequency and intensity after starting care.

Brain Fog: Clearing the Mental Haze

Brain fog is a frustrating symptom of post-concussion syndrome, characterized by difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and a sense of mental cloudiness. This cognitive impairment can affect work, relationships, and overall quality of life. Brain fog often stems from disrupted communication between the brain and body, caused by upper cervical misalignments that impair nerve signaling and blood flow.

Our Lakewood Ranch clinic uses advanced diagnostic tools to address brain fog effectively. 3D CBCT imaging provides a detailed view of the upper cervical spine, revealing even subtle misalignments that may contribute to cognitive symptoms. Dr. Rusty Lavender explains that correcting these misalignments restores proper neurological function, allowing the brain to process information more efficiently. Additionally, our Tytron scans measure thermal patterns along the spine, indicating areas of nervous system interference. By combining these diagnostics with precise upper cervical adjustments, we help patients clear the mental haze and regain cognitive clarity.

Migraines: Finding Relief Through Upper Cervical Care

Migraines are intense, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. For individuals with post-concussion syndrome or whiplash, migraines can become a chronic issue. Research suggests that upper cervical misalignments play a significant role in migraine development, as they can irritate nerves and disrupt blood flow to the brain.

At our Lakewood Ranch clinic, we’ve seen remarkable results in treating migraines with upper cervical chiropractic care. Dr. Jacob Temple uses 3D CBCT imaging to identify misalignments in the C1 and C2 vertebrae, which are often the culprits behind migraine pain. By gently correcting these misalignments, we reduce nerve irritation and restore proper vascular function. Our Tytron functional nervous system scans further enhance our ability to monitor progress, ensuring that the nervous system is functioning optimally. Patients often experience fewer migraines and less severe symptoms after just a few adjustments, making upper cervical care a powerful solution for migraine relief.

TMJ/TMD: Addressing Jaw Pain and Dysfunction

TMJ/TMD (temporomandibular joint disorders) are conditions affecting the jaw, leading to pain, clicking, locking, and difficulty chewing. These disorders are surprisingly common among individuals with concussions or whiplash, as trauma to the head and neck can disrupt the alignment of the jaw and cervical spine. Symptoms of TMJ/TMD include jaw pain, earaches, facial pain, and even headaches.

The connection between TMJ/TMD and upper cervical misalignments is well-documented. A misaligned atlas (C1) or axis (C2) can alter the biomechanics of the jaw, leading to uneven pressure and dysfunction. Dr. Will Guzinski specializes in addressing TMJ/TMD through upper cervical chiropractic care. Using 3D CBCT imaging, we assess the alignment of both the cervical spine and jaw to create a comprehensive treatment plan. Our Tytron scans help us monitor nervous system function, as TMJ symptoms are often linked to nerve irritation. By correcting spinal misalignments, we restore balance to the jaw and alleviate TMJ/TMD symptoms, providing relief for our Lakewood Ranch patients.

Why Upper Cervical Chiropractic is the Best Remedy for Concussions

Upper cervical chiropractic care is uniquely suited to treat concussions and related conditions because it addresses the root cause: misalignments in the upper cervical spine. Unlike traditional medical approaches that focus on symptom management with medications, upper cervical care aims to restore proper neurological and biomechanical function. Here’s why it’s the best remedy for concussions:

Precision and Personalization: Using 3D CBCT imaging, we obtain detailed, three-dimensional images of the upper cervical spine, allowing us to identify misalignments with unparalleled accuracy. This precision ensures that adjustments are tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy.
Gentle Adjustments: Upper cervical adjustments are gentle and non-invasive, involving no twisting or popping. This makes them safe and effective for patients recovering from head and neck injuries.
Holistic Healing: By correcting misalignments, we restore blood flow, cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, and nerve function, addressing the underlying causes of PCS, whiplash, headaches, brain fog, migraines, and TMJ/TMD.
Advanced Diagnostics: Our Tytron functional nervous system scans provide real-time data on nervous system function, helping us track progress and ensure optimal outcomes.
Proven Results: Research supports the efficacy of upper cervical care for concussion-related symptoms. Studies, such as those published in the Journal of the American Medical Association and by researchers like Marshall et al. (2014), highlight the connection between neck injuries and PCS, underscoring the importance of addressing cervical misalignments.

Our Lakewood Ranch clinic, led by Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski, is at the forefront of upper cervical chiropractic care, offering hope and healing to concussion patients.

3D CBCT Imaging: A Game-Changer for Concussion Care

At our Lakewood Ranch clinic, we utilize 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) imaging to revolutionize concussion diagnosis and treatment. Unlike traditional 2D X-rays, 3D CBCT provides a comprehensive view of the upper cervical spine, capturing detailed images from every angle. This technology, such as the iCAT 3D Imaging System, rotates 360 degrees around the patient’s head and neck, offering unmatched diagnostic clarity.

The benefits of 3D CBCT imaging include:

Enhanced Accuracy: Identifies even minor misalignments that 2D imaging might miss.
Reduced Radiation: Emits less radiation than standard CT scans or full cervical X-ray series, making it safer for patients.
Personalized Treatment: Allows us to create precise adjustment plans based on each patient’s unique spinal anatomy.

Dr. Rusty Lavender explains, “3D CBCT imaging is a game-changer because it gives us a blueprint of the patient’s spine, ensuring that every adjustment is targeted and effective.” Whether treating PCS, whiplash, or TMJ/TMD, this technology enables us to deliver superior outcomes for our Lakewood Ranch patients.

Tytron Functional Nervous System Scans: Monitoring Your Progress

To complement our 3D CBCT imaging, we use Tytron functional nervous system scans to assess and monitor nervous system function. These scans measure thermal patterns along the spine, indicating areas of nerve interference caused by misalignments. By analyzing these patterns, we gain insights into how the nervous system is responding to trauma and treatment.

Dr. Jacob Temple emphasizes the importance of Tytron scans: “These scans allow us to see the nervous system in action, helping us fine-tune our adjustments and track improvements over time.” For patients with headaches, brain fog, or migraines, Tytron scans reveal how upper cervical misalignments are affecting nerve signaling, guiding our care to achieve optimal results. This cutting-edge technology ensures that our Lakewood Ranch patients receive data-driven, evidence-based treatment.

Meet Our Expert Doctors: Rusty Lavender, Jacob Temple, and Will Guzinski

Our Lakewood Ranch clinic is proud to be led by three exceptional upper cervical chiropractors, each bringing unique expertise to concussion care:

Dr. Rusty Lavender: With years of experience in upper cervical chiropractic, Dr. Lavender is passionate about using advanced diagnostics like 3D CBCT imaging to treat complex conditions. His holistic approach helps patients overcome PCS, migraines, and brain fog, restoring their quality of life.
Dr. Jacob Temple: A specialist in whiplash and TMJ/TMD, Dr. Temple combines precision adjustments with Tytron scans to address the neurological and biomechanical effects of head and neck injuries. His dedication to personalized care ensures lasting relief for patients.
Dr. Will Guzinski: Known for his expertise in headache and migraine management, Dr. Guzinski uses upper cervical care to alleviate pain and improve nervous system function. His compassionate approach makes him a trusted provider in Lakewood Ranch.

Together, our doctors form a powerhouse team, committed to helping concussion patients heal through upper cervical chiropractic care. Their collaborative approach ensures that every patient receives comprehensive, individualized treatment tailored to their needs.

Head Injuries Always Cause Neck Injuries: The Critical Link

One of the most overlooked aspects of concussion care is the fact that head injuries always cause neck injuries. The force required to cause a concussion—whether from a sports collision, car accident, or fall—inevitably impacts the neck, particularly the upper cervical spine. The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, which support the head’s weight and allow for its range of motion, are highly susceptible to misalignment during trauma.

These misalignments, known as subluxations, can have far-reaching effects:

Reduced Blood Flow: Compression of blood vessels limits oxygen delivery to the brain, contributing to brain fog and fatigue.
Nerve Irritation: Pressure on nerves can cause headaches, dizziness, and TMJ pain.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Disruption: Impaired drainage can lead to increased intracranial pressure, exacerbating PCS symptoms.

Research, such as studies by Steilen et al. (2014), supports this connection, showing that upper cervical instability is a key factor in PCS and related symptoms like migraines and vertigo. If left untreated, these neck injuries can lead to chronic health issues, as seen in cases like former NFL quarterback Jim McMahon, who experienced relief from PCS symptoms after upper cervical adjustments.

At our Lakewood Ranch clinic, we believe that upper cervical chiropractic is necessary for proper healing after a concussion. By correcting neck misalignments, we address the root cause of symptoms, allowing the body to heal naturally. Our doctors use gentle, precise adjustments to restore alignment, supported by 3D CBCT imaging and Tytron scans for optimal results.

Why Choose Our Lakewood Ranch Clinic for Concussion Care?

If you’re searching for a concussion doctor in Lakewood Ranch, our clinic offers unparalleled expertise and technology. Here’s what sets us apart:

Specialized Upper Cervical Care: We focus on the C1 and C2 vertebrae, the critical link between head and neck injuries.
Advanced Diagnostics: 3D CBCT imaging and Tytron functional nervous system scans provide precise, data-driven insights.
Expert Team: Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski bring decades of combined experience to concussion treatment.
Holistic Approach: We address the root cause of symptoms, not just the effects, for lasting relief.
Patient-Centered Care: Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Whether you’re struggling with post-concussion syndrome, whiplash, headaches, brain fog, migraines, or TMJ/TMD, our Lakewood Ranch clinic is here to help. We understand the devastating impact of head and neck injuries and are committed to helping you heal.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Don’t let concussion symptoms control your life. If you’re in Lakewood Ranch and searching for a concussion doctor, our upper cervical chiropractic clinic offers the expertise, technology, and care you need to recover. With 3D CBCT imaging, Tytron functional nervous system scans, and the skilled hands of Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski, we provide a path to healing that addresses the root cause of your symptoms.

Schedule a free consultation today to learn how upper cervical chiropractic can help you overcome post-concussion syndrome, whiplash, headaches, brain fog, migraines, and TMJ/TMD. Contact our Lakewood Ranch clinic to start your journey back to health. Let us help you reclaim your life with the best concussion care available.

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