Navigating treatment at the Amen Clinic can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with brain health issues. This blog post provides a comprehensive guide on how to maximize the 6-month treatment period, from preparing for testing day to advocating for the best possible care. Learn how to track progress, ask key questions, and ensure that all aspects of your health are addressed. This guide empowers patients and caregivers to take an active role in their healing process.
When seeking answers to complex brain health issues, particularly after a brain injury or when traditional treatments haven't worked, the Amen Clinic offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and healing the brain. However, navigating through the clinic’s process can be overwhelming, especially given the six-month timeline you’re allotted to make progress.
As a patient or caregiver preparing for this journey, it's critical to be organized, proactive, and prepared. This blog post breaks down the essential steps, tips, and questions to ask to ensure you or your loved one gets the most out of the Amen Clinic’s care.
Basic Notes for Preparing for Your Visit
Record Everything
Keep detailed notes during each visit. Whether it’s during a consultation, a testing day, or a follow-up session, having a record of everything you hear and learn is invaluable. These notes will help you track progress, remember important details, and make informed decisions moving forward.
Ask for Copies of All Documents
At every appointment, ask for copies of everything, including test results, written recommendations, or anything transcribed. Make sure to request these in a format that is easy to understand—whether that means simplifying medical jargon or using visual aids like charts or drawings.
Consult with a Detox Specialist
After undergoing a SPECT scan or other testing, consider booking a session with Ja craniosacral therapist. They can help guide you through the detox process, clearing your system of any residuals or toxins that may hinder recovery.
Luckily, I was able to see my CST after the first scan to help remove some of the severe trauma and anger that resulted after the radiation. Heat was pouring from my head and I was in severe pain. Please check out my post about my CST for more details: On My Healing Journey - Healing Brain Trauma: The Power of Craniosacral Therapy and UMAC
Activated Charcoal for Detox
Activated charcoal can be a useful supplement to support detoxification. Check with your healthcare provider or the Amen Clinic staff to see if this could be beneficial during your treatment.
I had a severe reaction to the radiation that was given for the scan due to being extremely sensitive, so I wish I knew that the usual direction to "drink more water" would not work for me.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Never feel like any question is too small or too “obvious.” Ask everything you need to feel confident in the treatment plan. Clarify things until they are crystal clear—your health is the priority.
Prepare a List of Key Health Concerns
Before your appointment, write down the main health concerns you want to address. Having a list ensures that nothing gets overlooked and that you don’t forget to bring up important issues.
On Testing Day
Document the Entire Day
On testing day, make sure you’re recording every detail—from the procedures to the staff’s instructions. It’s easy to forget specific advice after a busy day, so having this documentation will serve as a reference point for later.
Clarify the Intake Process
When you first arrive, ask all the necessary questions to make sure you bring the right paperwork, understand the preparations needed, and are ready for any potential adverse reactions during testing. The intake team may not always be able to provide in-depth answers about your treatment, so be prepared to follow up with the doctor or specialist.
Know Who You’re Speaking With
Many of the people you’ll interact with will be technicians, not doctors. Make sure you ask all your questions to the medical professionals during the intake or follow-up appointments.
Assistant Check-Ins and Doctor Follow-Ups
Request Recordings of Sessions
Ask for recordings of all your sessions—whether it’s reviewing test results, discussing your healing protocol, or having check-in meetings. These recordings allow you to revisit important discussions and help you stay on track.
Track Symptoms and Reactions
Keep detailed notes on your symptoms, mood changes, and any reactions to treatment. This helps doctors adjust the protocol in real-time and ensures that they don’t overlook anything in your recovery journey.
Follow-Up Emails
After each doctor or assistant session, ask for a follow-up email summarizing the discussion. The email should outline key takeaways, action items, and visual aids (charts, lists, etc.) to help you process the information.
Address New and Old Symptoms
If new symptoms arise or if an old symptom resurfaces or worsens, make sure it’s added to the treatment protocol. Always address both new and old issues, no matter how minor they seem.
Ensure Comprehensive Treatment Protocol
After each session, ensure that all aspects of your health—diet, exercise, supplements, sleep, and symptoms—are included in your treatment plan. Make sure the goals you set are revisited regularly to ensure they’re being met.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Get Local Doctor Recommendations
Before your 6-month program at the Amen Clinic ends, ask if they can send your records to a local doctor who will continue your care. Ensure the doctor is a good fit and that they can handle the specific treatments you need.
Explore Neuro-Optometry or Light Therapy
Ask your doctor if a neuro-optometrist or therapies like light therapy or vision therapy might be beneficial for your recovery.
Consider Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
HBOT can be a valuable addition to your healing process, especially if you're dealing with brain injuries or trauma. Ask if this treatment would be appropriate for your case.
What Happens After the 6-Month Program?
Discuss the next steps for care after the 6-month period ends. Will you receive ongoing support? What happens if there is no significant improvement?
Sleep Study Options
Ask about a sleep study to assess the quality of sleep, not just the number of hours you’re getting. Brain health and sleep quality are deeply connected.
Support Groups
Inquire if the clinic offers any support groups where you can connect with others going through similar health challenges.
Planning for Post-Program Care
Before the program concludes, ensure you have a plan in place for post-Amen care. This may include counseling, specialized doctors, or wellness experts who can continue supporting your recovery.
Non-Pharmaceutical Healing Options
If you're considering medications, ask about non-pharmaceutical treatments or lifestyle changes that can support your healing. Diet, exercise, and mental health practices can make a huge difference.
Tracking Progress Between Appointments
Ask if there are any tools, markers, or tests to track your improvements outside of the regular appointments. This will help you measure progress and stay motivated.
Understanding Your SPECT Scan Results
SPECT scans can be complex, so ensure you fully understand the results and how they relate to your overall treatment plan. Ask questions if anything is unclear.
Additional Considerations
Blood Panels and Markers
Before the SPECT scan is reviewed, ask for a blood panel to check key markers that could provide insight into your overall health. This will help give the doctor a full picture of your brain health, body chemistry, and mental health when discussing your treatment plan.
Full Picture of Health
Be sure the doctor is considering all aspects of your health—not just the brain scan results. Your diet, supplements, mental health, and even blood work should be factored into the treatment protocol.
Final Thoughts
Navigating brain health treatment can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming journey, but by being proactive, asking the right questions, and documenting everything, you can ensure that you or your loved one gets the most out of the Amen Clinic’s care. The clinic’s holistic approach to brain health offers great potential for recovery, but it requires active involvement to make sure that every step of the process is tailored to your unique needs.
By preparing in advance, advocating for thorough documentation, and tracking progress along the way, you’ll be better equipped to maximize the benefits of your time at the Amen Clinic and continue your journey toward healing.
All my light. All my love.
Namaste,
Jordan
Disclaimer: The content shared on this blog is based on my personal experiences and should not be considered medical advice. I am not a healthcare professional, and the information provided is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions related to your health, treatments, or therapy. Results and experiences may vary from person to person, and I cannot guarantee specific outcomes.
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