Neurology

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Neurology Treatment

The board-certified chiropractic neurologists at Complete Care are here to help you heal if you’re experiencing neurological symptoms after an auto accident. We offer a holistic approach and complete care services, including:

Don’t wait to have your neurological symptoms checked after an accident. We offer ride services, same day and walk in appointments so you can get the care you need. 

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Neurological Conditions We Treat

We understand accidents can be life-changing. If you’re experiencing symptoms like headaches, pain in the back, neck, arms and legs, or other concerns, we’re here for you. We’ll talk through your symptoms, and, following a thorough evaluation, we can recommend treatment strategies. With modern imaging techniques, we can diagnose neurological conditions that were difficult to detect before traumatic brain injury imaging innovations.

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Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

A TBI impacts your brain function, potentially causing you to feel confused. You may also have trouble concentrating if you’ve developed a brain injury from a car accident.

Concussions

A concussion is a mild type of TBI. While it is usually less severe, it can still cause headaches, nausea or a groggy feeling.

Neuropathy

Some experience nerve damage after a car accident outside of the brain or spinal cord. In this case, you might experience neuropathy, which can cause tingling or numbness in your hands or feet.

Lumbar disc disease

If a disc in your lower back is bulging, you could experience lumbar disc disease and the lower back pain and leg pain that come with it.

Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is when pressure compresses the nerve and causes numbness, weakness, tingling or pain. For instance, neck injuries from an auto accident can damage your spinal column’s nerve root, which can cause this disease.

Ataxia

Damage to the part of the brain that controls muscle function can cause ataxia, impairing your coordination and potentially leading to balance issues, hearing problems, vision impairment, headaches or slurred speech.

Auto Injury Neurology Testing

We’re committed to working closely with you and your primary care provider as we provide treatment. Neurologists at Complete Care provide cutting edge testing to detect, identify and examine your neurological concerns following a car accident.

Electromyography (EMG) / Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV)

Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) testing measure your muscle and nerve electrical activity. These electrodiagnostic tests use needle electrodes and electrical pulses to see how fast the signals move through your nerves. 

What to Expect?

  1. EMG: You may feel discomfort when the needle electrodes are inserted.
  2. NCV: You may feel startled when the electrical pulses are generated.
  3. After EMG: The muscle(s) tested may feel sore, and you may have minor bleeding or bruising where the needle electrodes were inserted.

How to Prepare for NCV/EMG Test

  • Avoid skin lotion or cream on the areas to be tested
  • During the test, you may be instructed to sit and/or lay down

Videonystagmography (VNG)

Videonystagmography (VNG) evaluates your inner ear function, which affects balance. We study the inner ear in a noninvasive test by looking at eye movements and using other testing methods. You’ll visually track targets, and we’ll also assess dizziness and how hot and cold air or water placed into each ear to stimulate eye movements. The test is non-invasive and involves several parts.

What to expect?

  1. First, the patient is asked to visually track targets that will either jump around (saccades) or move continuously (smooth pursuit). This part tests the oculomotor system, which is the neural network that controls eye movements.
  2. Second, positional nystagmus is assessed, with placing the patient into certain positions that may cause dizziness. This is important to see if the dizziness is related to a problem in the inner ear called Binomial Proximal Positional Vertigo.
  3. Finally, caloric testing is performed, which involves placing hot and cold air or water into each ear to stimulate the inner ear. The speed of the resulting eye movements is then measured. This test is helpful for determining if the inner ears are functioning properly, or if one or both are damaged.

How to prepare for Videonystagmography (VNG):

  • Avoid the use of any make-up (mascara, eyeliner or false eyelashes).
  • Bring a driver with you or we can provide transportation.
  • Avoid caffeine soft drinks, tea, decaf caffeine, chocolate or alcohol at least 48 hours prior to testing.
  • No food or drinks 4 hours before testing begins (in the case you are diabetic, a snack or light meal is accepted IF NEEDED 4 hours before test).
  • Please come in loose fitted clothing.
  • Avoid the use of perfumes/cologne.
  • Avoid having wet/damp hair for Videonystagmography (VNG).
  • Discontinue any medication for pain, anxiety (if possible), anti-histamines, anti-dizziness or/and anti-depressants.

Quantitative Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A quantitative electroencephalogram (EEG) helps analyze electrical activity in your brain to detect patterns that may identify neurological concerns or provide diagnostic details.

Brain Mapping Research

During brain mapping, our neurologists look at your brain’s structure and function for a holistic overview of your condition.

Our Neurology Treatment Services

Through our goal to provide individualized and comprehensive care, we offer services that address all aspects of your health and well-being. With neuro, rehabilitation, imaging and orthopedic professionals all working closely together in one health system, we offer the following services to help you recover: 

  • Neurosurgery: Auto injury surgery can include minimally invasive outpatient care or other corrective surgeries. We can assess your injury and recommend a surgical option that suits your needs, such as disc replacement or spinal fusion. Most of our patients who have had minimally invasive spine surgery are comfortably recovering from home, on the same-day or the next-day.
  • Pain management: Our team can recommend nonsurgical procedures to ease spinal and nerve pain, like radiofrequency neurotomy, where the sensory nerve is cauterized, or burned, for long-term pain relief.
  • Referrals and recommendations: We can make referrals to orthopedic doctors, chiropractic neurologists or psychiatrists based on your neurological needs. Our team may also suggest cognitive exercises you can do along with chiropractic manipulative therapy and physical therapy to empower you to regain your lifestyle.

Neurosurgery

Auto accidents can cause many injuries to the spine that are sometimes permanent and need to be corrected by surgery. Our specialists have extensive training in assessing each injury and recommending surgery that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. With new technology, there are many advancements in procedures that can effectively correct the injury and provide long-lasting relief with minimal downtime and recovery.

Depending on the diagnosis and severity of the condition, surgical intervention may be recommended. Complete Care’s fully trained and experienced spine surgeon provides the complete spectrum of spinal care, including the following surgical specialties:

Total Disc Replacement

Cervical disc replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing a damaged or degenerated cervical disc and replacing it with an artificial disc device. Cervical discs are the cushions or shock absorbers between the bones (vertebra) of the neck (cervical spine). Discs that become damaged either through trauma or degeneration can be a source of pain. If part of a disc moves out of its normal position it can cause pressure on the central spinal cord or on the individual nerve roots that exit from the spinal canal at each vertebral level.

Spinal Fusion

Cervical fusion is a surgical procedure that links together damaged segments of the vertebral column in the neck. This surgery is usually required when the cervical vertebrae and the discs between each vertebra have become damaged as a result of an injury or chronic wear-and-tear.

Lumbar fusion is a surgical procedure used to correct problems with the small bones in the spine (vertebrae). It is essentially a “welding” process. The basic idea is to fuse together two or more vertebrae so that they heal into a single, solid bone.

Laminectomy

Laminectomy is surgery that creates space by removing the lamina — the back part of a vertebra that covers your spinal canal. Also known as decompression surgery, laminectomy enlarges your spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Laminectomy is surgery that creates space by removing the lamina — the back part of a vertebra that covers your spinal canal. Also known as decompression surgery, laminectomy enlarges your spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Discogram

Discogram is an invasive diagnostic test that uses x-rays to examine the intervertebral discs of your spine. A special dye is injected into the injured disc or series of discs. The dye makes the disc visible on a fluoroscope monitor and x-ray film. The procedure involves pressurizing discs by injecting them with a sterile liquid to induce pain in the affected discs.

Relievant

Using fluoroscopy as a guide, the probe is inserted into the basivertebral nerve where radiofrequency is utilized to ablate the nerve. This is an implant free, minimally invasive, outpatient procedure.

Elliquence

A minimally invasive surgery where they use radiofrequency in the disk using an innovative, minimal access spine system designed to efficiently access the damaged disc without injury to surrounding disc anatomy.

Orthopedic Extremity Surgery

Our orthopedic extremity services include evaluation and treatment of bone and joint injuries related to auto accidents. We provide minimally invasive surgery, surgical reconstruction and arthroscopic treatment options for shoulders, knees, and carpal tunnel release. We utilize cutting-edge technology to provide minimally invasive options such as arthroscopic surgery, which can be performed in less time and with less discomfort than conventional surgery.

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Depending on the diagnosis and severity of the condition, surgical intervention may be recommended. Complete Care’s fully trained and experienced extremity surgeon provides the complete spectrum of musculoskeletal care, including the following surgical specialties:

Shoulder arthroscopy is surgery that uses a tiny camera called an arthroscope to examine or repair the tissues inside or around your shoulder joint. The arthroscope is inserted through a small cut (incision) in your skin.

SLAP lesion repair is a surgical procedure to repair a tear resulting from an injury to the labrum located in the shoulder joint. SLAP is an acronym for Superior Labrum from Anterior to Posterior. This refers to a tear where the tendon of the bicep muscle joins the labrum.

Synovectomy is a procedure where the synovial tissue surrounding a joint is removed. This procedure is typically recommended to provide relief from a condition in which the joint lining becomes inflamed and irritated and is not controlled by medication alone.

Limited debridement of soft or hard tissue and should be used for limited labral debridement, cuff debridement, or the removal of degenerative cartilage and osteophytes. This would consist of work done in just a portion of the shoulder, such as the front or the back of the shoulder.

Surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff most often involves reattaching the tendon to the head of humerus (upper arm bone). A partial tear, however, may need only a trimming or smoothing procedure called a debridement. A complete tear is repaired by stitching the tendon back to its original site on the humerus.

Knee Meniscectomy is an outpatient minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a torn meniscus cartilage in the knee. Only the torn segment of the meniscus is removed.

Surgery to smooth and reshape cartilage by scraping, cutting, or shaving it. An outpatient minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a torn meniscus cartilage in the knee.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is a surgical tissue graft replacement of the anterior cruciate ligament, located in the knee, to restore its function after an injury. The torn ligament is removed from the knee before the graft is inserted in an arthroscopic procedure.

Carpal tunnel release is a surgery used to treat and potentially heal the painful condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel is formed by the wrist bones on the bottom and the transverse carpal ligament across the top (or inside) of the wrist. When this part of the body is injured or tight, swelling of the tissues within the tunnel can press on the median nerve. During a carpal tunnel release, a surgeon cuts through the ligament that is pressing down on the carpal tunnel. This makes more room for the median nerve and tendons passing through the tunnel, and usually improves pain and function.

Meet The Team

Ryan DenHaese, MD

Neurosurgeon

DenHaese is trained in traditional spine surgeries, along with minimally invasive spinal technology. To offer patients additional protection, Denhaese applies spinal cord monitoring to his surgery process. He has extensive experience in degenerative spinal conditions, artificial disc replacement, spinal reconstruction, scoliosis, neuro-oncology, and trauma. Annually, DenHaese gives presentations on Minimally Invasive spinal surgery throughout the world and is considered a surgeon leader.

Education:

  • University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery: Doctor of Medicine
  • American Association of Neurological Surgeons: Research Fellow
  • SUNY at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences: Master of Science in Biochemistry
  • Niagara University: Bachelor of Science in Biology

Certifications:

American Board of Neurological Surgery: Board Certified, FAANS

M. Christopher MacLaren, MD

Medical Director

Complete Care Spine & Orthopedics offices in Lakeland, Leesburg and Longwood

Orthopedic Surgeon

Melbourne, Longwood, Leesburg, Lakeland, Cocoa

Dr. MacLaren is dual board-certified in orthopedic surgery and orthopedic sports medicine. He has many years of experience in minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, general orthopedics, fracture care, and treatment of bone and joint injuries. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army 101st Airborne where he was Chief of Orthopedics and received the Combat Medical Badge for his remarkable work. His extensive medical studies included fellowships in arthroscopy, sports medicine and knee reconstruction. He has been helping patients at Complete Care Spine & Orthopedics to relieve pain and maximize function, through non-operative techniques as well as through surgical correction.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science Cum Laude Graduate with Honors, The Ohio State University
  • Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine 
  • Traditional Orthopedic Emphasis Track Internship, Ohio University
  • Internship, U.S. Health Doctors Hospital
  • Orthopedic Surgery Residency, earning Chief Resident Award, Oklahoma State University Health Science Center Tulsa Regional Medical Center
  • Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine Fellowship, University of Texas
  • Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine Fellowship, Reynolds Army Medical Center

Certifications:

  • American Osteopathic Board of Surgery Orthopedic Sports Medicine
  • American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics, Fellow
  • National Board of Medical Examiners
  • Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Nova Southeastern University
  • President of American Osteopathic Society of Orthopedic Sports Medicine

Sydney Swartz, MD

Interventional Pain Management Physician

Spine & Orthopedics

Dr. Sidney Swartz is an interventional pain management specialist with over 30 years of experience. He received his medical degree from Chicago Medical School and completed his residency in anesthesiology. He specializes in interventional procedures such as rhizotomy and pain blocks to reduce pain in a non-invasive yet effective way. He has helped thousands of patients by providing thorough examinations, reviewing diagnostic imaging and performing state-of-the-art procedures specific to their injury. His dedication to the health of his patients is exemplary and he continues to stay up to date on new technologies and pain management procedures.

Dylan Saulsbery, DC, DIBCN, DIBE

Chiropractic Neurologist

Dr. Saulsbery is a diplomate in Chiropractic Neurology and is certified to perform electrodiagnostic studies through the International Board of Chiropractic Neurology. Through comprehensive examinations which may include NCS and VNG testing, Dr. Saulsbery’s goal for his patients is to localize, characterize and properly diagnose a disorder or dysfunction. It is imperative that proper treatment be rendered so that a patient can return to his or her activity with optimal performance. Dr. Saulsbery serves as an active member and lecturer for the International Academy of Chiropractic Neurology.

A chiropractic neurologist is a licensed chiropractor who has additionally completed a 3-year course of study in neurology, including academics and practical training, and has passed a written and practical certification examination by the International Board of Chiropractic Neurology (IBCN) or the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (ACNB).

A chiropractic neurologist is qualified to diagnose and treat neurological disorders involving the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves and the associated dysfunction of these systems. A chiropractic neurologist will not prescribe drugs or surgery, but rather recommend appropriate conservative treatment depending on the nature of the dysfunction. After a thorough evaluation, a potential patient may be deemed “not qualified” for conservative care and may need to be co-managed or referred to a medical neurologist or other provider until symptoms improve.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science, Pennsylvania State University
  • Doctor of Chiropractic, Palmer College of Chiropractic

Certifications:

  • Diplomate of the International Board of Chiropractic Neurology
  • Diplomate of the International Board of Electrodiagnosis

Ryan Revels, DC

Chiropractic Neurologist

Dr. Revels is a Chiropractic Neurologist certified in electrodiagnosis and functional neurology. After serving in the United States Army and Marine Corps, he went on to gain his degree and certifications in Chiropractic Neurology. He provides thorough evaluations and neurological testing to patients suffering from traumatic brain injury and other symptoms due to trauma. He performs testing such as Quantitative Electroencephalography (EEG), Electromyography (EMG), Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) and Vestibular testing and helps patients on their road to recovery.

Catherine Hurley, MSN, ARPN, FNP-BC

Nurse Practitioner

Catherine has over ten years of experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal injuries and has experience in general surgery, interventional pain management, physiotherapy and rehabilitation. By performing thorough assessments, she develops comprehensive plans of care for the intervention of pain and disease. Her advanced skillset and patient advocacy have helped thousands of patients return to their healthy lifestyles.

Education:

  • University of Central Florida: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • University of Central Florida: Master of Science in Nursing

Certifications:

  • Board Certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
Begin Your Journey

Schedule Your Neurology Appointment
With Complete Care

If you’ve been in an auto accident and are experiencing neurological symptoms or pain, we at Complete Care can help with our comprehensive and compassionate services. For cutting-edge testing, surgical intervention and other treatment recommendations, we offer a complete spectrum of neurology care. Our team can help you regain your quality of life through testing and treatment.