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Mavroudis I, Petridis F, Petroaie AD, Ciobica A, Kamal FZ, Honceriu C, Iordache A, Ionescu C, Novac B, Novac O. Exploring Symptom Overlaps: Post-COVID-19 Neurological Syndrome and Post-Concussion Syndrome in Athletes. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1587. [PMID: 39062160 PMCID: PMC11274969 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges in managing neurological conditions, particularly among athletes. This paper explores the intersection of post-COVID-19 neurological syndrome (PCNS/PASC) and post-concussion syndrome (PCS), focusing on their implications in sports medicine. Our analysis covers the symptomatology, pathophysiology, and management strategies for PCNS/PASC and PPCS, with special attention paid to the unique challenges faced by athletes recovering from these conditions, including the risk of symptom exacerbation and prolonged recovery. Key findings reveal that both PCNS/PASC and PPCS present with overlapping symptoms such as cognitive difficulties, exercise intolerance, and mental health issues, but differ in specific manifestations like anosmia and ageusia, unique to COVID-19. Pathophysiological analysis reveals similarities in blood-brain barrier disruption (BBB) but differences in the extent of immune activation. Management strategies emphasize a gradual increase in physical activity, close symptom monitoring, and psychological support, with a tailored approach for athletes. Specific interventions include progressive aerobic exercises, resistance training, and cognitive rehabilitation. Furthermore, our study highlights the importance of integrating neurology, psychiatry, physical therapy, and sports medicine to develop comprehensive care strategies. Our findings underscore the dual challenge of COVID-19 and concussion in athletes, necessitating a nuanced, interdisciplinary approach to effective management. Future research should focus on the long-term neurological effects of both conditions and optimizing treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for advancing the management of athletes affected by these overlapping conditions and ensuring their safe return to sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Mavroudis
- Department of Neuroscience, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
- Faculty of Medicine, Leeds University, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Foivos Petridis
- Third Department of Neurology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Antoneta Dacia Petroaie
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street No. 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.I.); (O.N.)
| | - Alin Ciobica
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I no. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania; (A.C.); (C.I.)
- Centre of Biomedical Research, Romanian Academy, Bd. Carol I, no. 8, 700506 Iasi, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Str. Splaiul Independentei no. 54, Sector 5, 050094 Bucharest, Romania
- “Ioan Haulica” Institute, Apollonia University, Pãcurari Street 11, 700511 Iasi, Romania
| | - Fatima Zahra Kamal
- Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Processes and Materials, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan First University, B.P. 539, Settat 26000, Morocco
| | - Cezar Honceriu
- Faculty of Physical Education, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I no. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Alin Iordache
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street No. 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.I.); (O.N.)
| | - Cătălina Ionescu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I no. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania; (A.C.); (C.I.)
- Clinical Department, Apollonia University, Păcurari Street 11, 700511 Iasi, Romania
| | - Bogdan Novac
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street No. 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.I.); (O.N.)
| | - Otilia Novac
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, University Street No. 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.I.); (O.N.)
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Stone JE, Campbell C, Tabor JB, Bonfield S, Machan M, Shan RLP, Debert CT. Ultrasound guided platelet rich plasma injections for post-traumatic greater occipital neuralgia following concussion: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1400057. [PMID: 38911584 PMCID: PMC11191875 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1400057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment for post-traumatic greater occipital neuralgia (GON) includes serial injections of steroid/anesthetic. While these injections can alleviate pain, effects can be transient, frequently lasting only 1 month. As a potential alternative, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are an emerging biological treatment with beneficial effects in peripheral nerve disorders. We investigated the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of a single PRP injection for post-traumatic GON in comparison to saline or steroid/anesthetic injection. Methods In this pilot randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, 32 adults with post-traumatic GON were allocated 1:1:1 to receive a single ultrasound-guided injection of (1) autologous PRP (2) steroid/anesthetic or (3) normal saline. Our primary outcome was feasibility (recruitment, attendance, retention) and safety (adverse events). Exploratory measures included headache intensity and frequency (daily headache diaries) and additional questionnaires (headache impact, and quality of life) assessed at pre-injection, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-injection. Results We screened 67 individuals, 55% were eligible and 95% of those participated. Over 80% of daily headache diaries were completed with 91% of participants completing the 3-month outcome questionnaires. No serious adverse events were reported. There were no significant differences between groups for headache intensity or frequency. Headache impact on function test-6 scores improved at 3 month in the PRP (β = -9.7, 95% CI [-15.6, -3.74], p = 0.002) and saline (β = -6.7 [-12.7, -0.57], p = 0.033) groups but not steroid/anesthetic group (p = 0.135). Conclusion PRP is a feasible and safe method for treating post-traumatic GON with comparable results to saline and steroid/anaesthetic. Further trials with larger sample sizes are required.Clinical trial registration:https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT04051203.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline E. Stone
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Christina Campbell
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jason B. Tabor
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Stephan Bonfield
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Matthew Machan
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Rodney Li Pi Shan
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Chantel T. Debert
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Ihara K, Schwedt TJ. Posttraumatic headache is a distinct headache type from migraine. Curr Opin Neurol 2024; 37:264-270. [PMID: 38294020 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Posttraumatic headache (PTH), a headache that develops within 7 days of a causative injury, is one of the most common secondary headaches, mostly attributed to mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Because presence of preinjury headache is a risk factor for developing PTH and PTH symptoms often resemble migraine or tension-type headache, the association between PTH and primary headaches has attracted attention from clinicians and scientists. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies on epidemiological aspects, headache features, risk factors, imaging characteristics, and response to treatment, suggest overlapping features and distinct objective findings in PTH compared to migraine. SUMMARY We argue that PTH is distinct from migraine. Therefore, PTH epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis should continue to be investigated separately from migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Ihara
- Japanese Red Cross Ashikaga Hospital, Ashikaga
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Todd J Schwedt
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
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Eggertsen PP, Palmfeldt J, Schytz HW, Hay D, Olsen RKJ, Nielsen JF. Serum calcitonin gene-related peptide in patients with persistent post-concussion symptoms, including headache: a cohort study. J Neurol 2024; 271:2458-2472. [PMID: 38231270 PMCID: PMC11055722 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12181-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) plays an important role in migraine pathophysiology, and post-traumatic headache (PTH) frequently presents with migraine-like features. Despite several clinical similarities, few studies have explored CGRP in PTH and concussion. This study investigates serum CGRP levels in patients with persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCS), including PTH. METHODS This cohort study was based on serum samples from individuals aged 18-30 years with PPCS who participated in a previously published randomized controlled trial of a non-pharmacological intervention. The primary outcome was serum CGRP concentrations, determined at baseline before randomization and at follow-up 7 months later, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). CGRP levels at baseline were compared with healthy anonymous blood donors in the same age group. RESULTS Baseline serum samples were collected from 86 participants with PPCS. The participants were most often female (78%) and migraine-like headache was the most frequent headache phenotype (74%). Serum CGRP levels were higher in participants with PPCS than in 120 healthy individuals (median: 158.5 pg/mL vs. 76.3 pg/mL, p = 0.050). A stratified analysis revealed that females with PPCS had a fivefold higher median than healthy females (166.3 pg/mL vs. 32.1 pg/mL, p = 0.0006), while no differences were observed in males (p = 0.83). At follow-up, CGRP levels decreased with a median change of - 1.3 pg/mL (95% confidence interval: - 17.6-0, p = 0.024). DISCUSSION Elevated serum levels of CGRP in patients with PPCS and a decrease over time suggest an involvement of CGRP in PTH/PPCS. If confirmed in other studies, it could pave the way for CGRP-targeted therapies, which could have clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Preben Eggertsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hammel Neurorehabilitation Centre and University Research Clinic, Aarhus University, Voldbyvej 15A, 8450, Hammel, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Research Unit for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | - Johan Palmfeldt
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Research Unit for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Henrik Winther Schytz
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Center, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Valdemar Hansens Vej 5, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Debbie Hay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, 362 Leith Street, Dunedin North, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
| | - Rikke Katrine Jentoft Olsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Research Unit for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Feldbæk Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hammel Neurorehabilitation Centre and University Research Clinic, Aarhus University, Voldbyvej 15A, 8450, Hammel, Denmark
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Mavroudis I, Balmus IM, Ciobica A, Hogas M. A Narrative Review Of Risk Factors And Predictors For Poor Outcome And Prolonged Recovery After A Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. Int J Neurosci 2024:1-22. [PMID: 38465501 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2024.2328710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
MATERIAL AND METHODS A comprehensive search of the main scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library) was performed using keywords, such as: "prolonged post-concussion syndrome", combined with "risk factors", "predictors", and "outcomes". RESULTS Multiple studies reported more than one risk factor for PPCS development following mTBIs that were generally the results of sports-related concussions and car accidents. The most prevalent risk factor associated with PPCS was the female sex. Social factors/personality traits, anxiety, mental health disorders, or other health conditions from their past medical history, the occurrence of headache/migraines during TBI recovery, somatization, physical activity, and litigation were also reported to contribute to PPCS risk. CONCLUSIONS An exhaustive approach is required to mitigate the risk of PPCS and to ensure optimal recovery after concussive events. However, larger prospective cohort studies evaluating patients that were examined and treated with standardized protocols could be needed to further validate these associations and mandate the highest risk factors for delayed recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Mavroudis
- Department of Neurology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Ioana-Miruna Balmus
- Department of Exact Sciences and Natural Sciences, Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași, 700057 Iași, Romania
- CENEMED Platform for Interdisciplinary Research, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alin Ciobica
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, B dul Carol I, No. 11, 700506 Iasi, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Splaiul Independentei nr. 54, Sector 5, 050094 Bucuresti, Romania
- Centre of Biomedical Research, Romanian Academy, B dul Carol I, No. 8, 700506 Iasi, Romania
- Preclinical Department, Apollonia University, Păcurari Street 11, 700511 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mihai Hogas
- Department of Physiology, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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Charleston L, Posas J. Categorizing Sports-Related Concussion Disparities by Key Domains of Social Determinants of Health. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2024; 28:125-132. [PMID: 38227210 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01187-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To explore recently published data on disparities in concussion and best categorize these data into domains of social determinants of health (SDOH). RECENT FINDINGS Disparities in concussion cover a range of SDOH domains. Questions on disparities in concussion remain. Interventions to reduce these disparities and inequities are needed. Social determinants of health may play a significant role in disparities and inequities in sports related concussion. There is interplay and overlap in SDOH domains that affect concussion outcomes. It is possible that an increase in SDOH may affect concussion disparities by moderated mediation; however, further data is needed to validate this potential effect. Moreover, attention to SDOH domains in sports related concussion may provide insight on intervention targets to ameliorate disparities in sports related concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry Charleston
- Department of Neurology, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA.
| | - Jose Posas
- Oschner Health Neuroscience Institute, New Orleans, LA, USA
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da Silva Fiorin F, do Espírito Santo CC, Da Silva JT, Chung MK. Inflammation, brain connectivity, and neuromodulation in post-traumatic headache. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 35:100723. [PMID: 38292321 PMCID: PMC10827408 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic headache (PTH) is a debilitating condition that affects individuals with different levels of traumatic brain injury (TBI) severity. The difficulties in developing an effective treatment are related to a lack of understanding the complicated mechanisms and neurobiological changes in brain function after a brain injury. Preclinical studies have indicated that peripheral and central sensitization of the trigeminal nociceptive pathways contributes to PTH. While recent brain imaging studies have uncovered widespread changes in brain functional connectivity following trauma, understanding exactly how these networks contribute to PTH after injury remains unknown. Stimulation of peripheral (trigeminal or vagus) nerves show promising efficacies in PTH experimental animals, likely mediated by influencing TBI-induced pathological plasticity by decreasing neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis. Non-invasive brain stimulations, such as transcranial magnetic or direct current stimulations, show analgesia for multiple chronic pain conditions, including PTH. Better mechanistic understanding of analgesia achieved by neuromodulations can define peripheral and central mechanisms involved in the development, the resolution, and the management of PTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando da Silva Fiorin
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Program in Neuroscience, Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Caroline Cunha do Espírito Santo
- Graduate Program in Neuroengineering, Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Brazil
| | - Joyce T. Da Silva
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Program in Neuroscience, Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Man-Kyo Chung
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Program in Neuroscience, Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Oakley PA, Haas JW, Woodham T, Fortner M, Harrison DE. Subjective and Objective Improvement in a 39-Year-Old Male Suffering From Severe Chronic Pain and Disability Using Chiropractic BioPhysics® Protocols Following Rear-Impact Motor Vehicle Crash With a 10-Month Long-Term Follow-Up. Cureus 2023; 15:e50849. [PMID: 38125689 PMCID: PMC10732608 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
We present the case of a patient receiving structural rehabilitation following a rear-impact motor vehicle collision (MVC). Medications did not alleviate the symptoms of the crash injuries. Resolution of injury-caused pain and disability was found following postural and structural rehabilitation treatment. A 39-year-old male was injured in a rear-impact collision between two very large vehicles. Severe migraine headaches, neck pain, and radiculopathy, as well as lower back pain, were the result of the crash. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) demonstrated that the symptoms were causing severe disability and poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures. Radiographs found spine alignment abnormalities consistent with rear impact MVC. Chiropractic Biophysics® (CBP®) structural rehabilitation was performed. Following a treatment regimen involving strengthening weakened and damaged muscles, postural and spinal traction, postural spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), and home therapies resulted in the resolution of the symptoms. All outcome measures demonstrated improvement, including Short-Form 36 question health questionnaire (SF-36), quadruple visual analog scale (QVAS), headache disability index (HDI), neck disability index (NDI), revised Oswestry disability index (RODI), as well as significant measured improvements found on radiographs. Spine pain and altered alignment are frequent results of MVCs. If left uncorrected, these abnormalities increase the likelihood of chronic pain and disability. Combined low back pain (LBP), neck pain (NP), headache (HA), and radiculopathy, as found in our subject, significantly pre-dispose the individual to poor HRQoL, years lived with disability (YLDs) and increased the global burden of disease (GBD). Physicians who treat injured patients should have a repeatable, reliable, valid, and efficacious method to reduce pain, increase range of motion (ROM), improve spine alignment, and improve the performance of activities of daily living (ADLs). Further, larger studies of injured patients are necessary to determine if the CBP® protocol reduces GBD caused by MVC injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Oakley
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, York University, Toronto, CAN
| | - Jason W Haas
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, CBP NonProfit, Windsor, USA
| | - Thomas Woodham
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western Plains Chiropractic, Gillette, USA
| | - Miles Fortner
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western Plains Chiropractic, Gillette, USA
| | - Deed E Harrison
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, CBP NonProfit, Eagle, USA
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