Earlier this trimester, National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) welcomed alumnus Steven Paliakas, DC ’00, to share key insights on concussion care in clinical practice with students in the doctor of chiropractic medicine program.
Dean of Lincoln College of Post-professional, Graduate and Continuing Education
Jenna Glenn, DC ’09, ND ’12, MS ’12, selected Dr. Paliakas to present this topic as he is an expert in concussion management. According to Dr. Glenn, the purpose of these presentations is to teach beyond the core curriculum and help students connect with specialists.
Dr. Paliakas earned his
Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine
(DC) from NUHS in 2000. He owns and operates Nova Rehabilitation Acupuncture Chiropractic in Wheaton, Ill. He completed 300 hours of postgraduate training in acupuncture and 100 hours in chronic pain management. Additionally, he is certified in prenatal chiropractic care.
Concussion Management
During his presentation, Dr. Paliakas discussed that the first step in treating a concussion is ruling out any red flags through imaging and referring patients to emergency care if necessary. He emphasized that recovery is not solely based on symptom resolution.
His treatment plan is typically four sessions long. He begins by explaining the process to patients to eliminate uncertainty and fear.
“Understanding the problem can take the fear out of it, and concussion can be very frightening. I do a slightly less technical explanation to help patients understand what a concussion is, outline their symptoms and discuss the recovery timeline. That gives them validation, encouragement and hope. Presenting a treatment plan is critical the first time a patient comes for care,” said Dr. Paliakas.
Session one includes an initial evaluation with a musculoskeletal assessment and immediate treatment for neck pain. During session two, he conducts the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test to establish a safe exertion margin. In session three, he assesses eye tracking and vestibular system function, and during the fourth and final session, he recommends an anti-inflammatory nutritional diet.
Chiropractic Role in Concussion Care
Dr. Paliakas highlighted that chiropractic physicians with neuro-based training and rehabilitation expertise are uniquely equipped to treat concussion patients. He incorporates techniques such as dry needling, spinal manipulation and targeted rehabilitation exercises to support symptom management and recovery.
Chiropractic doctors provide holistic care that addresses more than physical symptoms. Dr. Paliakas educates patients on their condition and recovery process, provides nutritional guidance to support an anti-inflammatory diet, recommends supplements for brain health and acknowledges the emotional toll of chronic concussion symptoms by referring patients to appropriate mental health resources when needed.
Inspired to make a difference in the field of chiropractic medicine and wellness?
Explore the chiropractic medicine program
at NUHS and start building your legacy today.
