
Physical Therapy
Our elbow-to-elbow expert care is customized to meet
the unique needs of each patient.
Our Physical Therapy services are uniquely positioned to be able to assist in identifying and treating neurological impairments, while working side-by-side with our expert medical providers. This novel clinical environment fosters real-time collaboration and enhances the comprehensive experience to help you achieve optimal recovery.
Physical Therapy services at Kutcher Clinic are led by Ryan Pelo, PT, DPT, PhD, a Board-Certified Neurological Physical Therapist, with specialized training in vestibular rehabilitation and trigger point dry needling. Dr. Pelo specializes in addressing a range of neurological conditions, including headaches, dizziness, balance issues, vision, activity intolerance, and autonomic dysfunction.
Headache
Headache and whiplash symptoms can be the result of musculoskeletal impairment after a concussion. An examination and treatment of the cervical vertebrae and the surrounding musculature can have a significant impact in the reduction of overall post-concussion symptoms.
Dizziness, Balance and Vision
This collection of symptoms if often influenced by the ability of the brain to intake and process visual, vestibular (motion) and proprioceptive (body position) information.
An imbalance within the coordination of information from these systems can significantly impact an individual’s understanding of their environment and how they are reacting within the environment.
An assessment of these 3 systems in isolation and in conjunction with each other is critical in providing the appropriate targeted treatments.
Activity Intolerance
Participating in exercise and activity after concussion is critical in improving performance - but often requires guidance. Physical Therapy can not only provide guidance and direction in this process but also can provide tailored assessments as activity increases that allow for appropriate progression.
Autonomic Dysfunction
The ability to appropriately regulate heart rate and blood pressure after concussion can be impaired due to an altered ability of your autonomic nervous system to respond during exercise or even with simply position changes, like standing up.
Appropriately prescribed exercise guided by a physical therapist can help to improve the response of the autonomic nervous system through a progressive exercise program based upon an individual’s current activity level and symptom burden.