Stroke Recovery

Symptoms of the After-effects of Stroke can often be improved with MeRT

This treatment is now available at the Brain Treatment Center. 

Simply stated we use a magnetic field to stimulate and balance brain function, guided by very sophisticated imaging and diagnostics. It is completely non-invasive and drug-free.

Types of Stroke

There are many different types of strokes and a wide variety of after-effects that can result from a stroke. The major types of stroke include:

• TIA or Transient Ischemic stroke is often referred to as a “mini-stroke.” A temporary, small clot in the brain caused this stroke, and the symptoms are mild. You should, however, take these seriously because they are a warning that a more serious stroke may occur next. Having had a TIA puts a person at much higher risk. 
• Ischemic stroke occurs when a clot obstructs a blood vessel in the brain. This prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the affected part of the brain. This is the most common type of stroke, occurring in 87% of patients.
• Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when weakened blood vessels within the brain rupture, and then bleed into the surrounding tissues. This bleeding causes compression of some of the surrounding tissues, which then causes brain damage. The most common type of hemorrhagic stroke is an aneurysm (a blood vessel that bursts) caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure. Another type of hemorrhagic stroke is AVM or arteriovenous malfunctions. AVM is a congenital defect that occurs when there are structural problems in some of the blood vessels. AVM also creates a higher risk for aneurysms because of congenital weakness in the blood vessels themselves.
• A Cryptogenic stroke is from an unknown cause but can also be quite debilitating.
• A Brain Stem stroke occurs in the brain’s stem instead of the brain itself. Symptoms can sometimes be milder depending on the degree of stroke, but these types of strokes, along with the others, can also be fatal.

Stroke After-Effects

Depending on where in the brain the stroke occurs, after-effects can affect all different types of functions of the body. If the stroke occurs on the left side of the brain, the right side of the body is usually affected; if it occurs on the right side of the brain, the left side of the body is affected.

The degree to which the brain is damaged determines the extent of the after-effects, rehabilitation needs, and amount of permanent disability.

Because the brain controls every function in the human body, many areas can be affected, sometimes permanently. However, the after-effects of stroke can also be helped immensely by different types of rehabilitation and therapy. The length of time for recovery can take weeks to months to years, depending on the severity of the stroke.

MeRT can help with stroke after-effects

Here at the Brain Treatment Center, we offer MeRT, a treatment protocol that may be used for symptomatic changes after a stroke. MeRT stands for Magnetic E (for EEG and EKG) Resonance Treatment.

While the neuromodulation equipment used in the MeRT process has been cleared by the FDA in the treatment of depression which has been resistant to medications, it may also be used off-label for other disorders in the practice of medicine. These include other brain disorders. 

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) modulates the brain’s electrical activity by using magnetic fields which pass through the scalp from an electromagnetic coil. However, it is important to note that TMS is a generalized approach to neuromodulation because it is only able to target a single location in the brain with a single frequency.

MeRT is a unique and improved version of TMS as it is a much more individualized approach to brain modulation. We tailor treatment to the patient’s needs based on frequency, location, and power used. 

We perform a quantitative EEG before modulation treatment starts in order to determine exactly the frequency of your brain. 

What is MeRT?

MeRT is a cutting-edge treatment protocol that combines technologies of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS, an FDA-cleared therapy), Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG), and Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to analyze and formulate treatments that are tailored for each individual’s unique brain pattern.

Most TMS treatments deliver stimulation to one area of the brain at a fixed frequency for all patients, however, MeRT is more evolved. We customize MeRT as to frequency and location based on initial thorough testing and evaluation. This customized, scientific approach is unique to each patient.

We carefully analyze the patient’s initial testings as to the brain’s pattern of function and activity. Through this detailed analysis, we can determine the correct neural synchronization. We then use this information to devise a highly personalized protocol for each patient, with the purpose of encouraging improved brain communication. Our patients have reported significant clinical improvements after going through treatment.*

Treatment for after-effects of stroke usually lasts four to six weeks with possible follow-up at varying intervals. This treatment can also be done alongside other stroke therapies, or after rehabilitation therapies.  Appointments are 30-45 minutes, Monday through Friday. Generally, patients report that they feel improvements even in the first few weeks.*

The MeRT Process to Treat Stroke Symptoms

MeRT is a non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive treatment.

MeRT (Magnetic E (EKG and EEG) Resonance Therapy is a treatment protocol that evolved from a technology called rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). However, rTMS is a more generalized approach because it is only able to target a single location in the brain with one frequency.

Studies have shown altered brain wave oscillations in patients suffering from conditions such as Major Depression Disorder (MDD), Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, and more. MeRT treatment protocol uses a magnetic field to balance and stimulate brain function. The technology involves using very sophisticated diagnostics and imaging so that the treatment is customized for each individual.

Much of the initial MeRT research has been done by the U.S. Department of Defense for veterans returning from combat. There is an article that was published in Defense One that further explains the DOD’s research and the benefits that MeRT has been shown to have on people suffering from TBI, PTSD, and MDD. Additional studies have been completed in the private sector on other conditions.

Mert Treatment for Stroke Symptoms: What to Expect

If you are interested in seeing if MeRT treatment is right for you, we will initially schedule two appointments, both of which are about 45 minutes in length.

For the initial analysis, you will come in for a comprehensive testing appointment. We will gather your new patient paperwork and then our chief neuro technician will perform a qEEG and EKG, which will enable us to identify any dysfunction or communication problems in your brain.

While this appointment usually takes about 45 minutes, if you are seeking treatment for your child with autism, please plan on spending an hour with us. Should you decide to proceed with treatment, we will schedule your assessment period.

If you are not yet ready to commit to going through an assessment period of treatment or prefer to have your qEEG and consultation done to ensure you are a candidate for treatment, we also offer the option of coming in for a qEEG/EKG and consultation with our clinician to see your results before proceeding with the assessment period. 

Your second appointment is 45 minutes long. During this time, you will meet with Kayleigh Prowse, FNP for your consultation. She will answer any questions you may have and discuss your applicable treatment plan. Please note that Dr. Julie Kim, Medical Director, oversees all treatment for each individual patient. 

Assessment Period

The assessment period of treatment lasts from one to two weeks, depending on your age. For children 10 years old and younger, the assessment period is one week. For anyone 11 years and older, the assessment period is two weeks.

The assessment period of treatment will help you, and us, determine how you are responding to treatment. At the end of the assessment period, we will perform a second qEEG to note any changes occurring in your brain. 

For children 10 years old and younger completing a one-week assessment period, the patient will have their initial qEEG/EKG, then attend four treatment sessions (Monday through Thursday), followed by another qEEg to determine progress in the brain. 

For those 11 years and older completing a two-week assessment period, the patient will have their initial qEEG/EKG, and then attend treatment sessions for two weeks. The first week will be Monday through Friday, and the second week, Monday through Thursday, nine sessions in total, followed by a repeat qEEG to determine progress.  

Continuing Treatment

Once the assessment period is complete, and we are seeing progress both clinically and on the qEEG, we will schedule subsequent two-week treatment periods. Because each treatment period lasts for two weeks, you must be able to stay in Newport Beach or the surrounding area. We advise that to get the most out of your treatment—and for long-lasting results—you stay for an entire six weeks of treatment (which includes the assessment period).

The comparison between the initial and second qEEG/clinical evaluation will determine if you are responding. You should also start to experience changes in the way you are feeling during this time. We highly advise a total of six weeks of treatment (which includes the assessment period) for optimal and long-lasting results. 

Since each brain is unique, the protocol will be different for each patient as it is based on specific qEEG/EKG data from your brain, and the specific condition treated. Generally, the results of treatment can last a lifetime, though some people prefer occasional follow-up treatment as needed. But each person is different, and protocols may vary. Your provider will have regularly scheduled follow-up EEGs and meet with you to gauge your progress.

Additional Information

A typical treatment session takes about 45 minutes. You will sit in a chair while the neuro-technician administers the treatment near the scalp via a hand-held magnet. We deliver gentle magnetic impulses for six to eight seconds each minute. You may feel a slight sensation while the treatment is occurring, but it is not painful or uncomfortable.

Please note that results and improvements are based on active and strict observation of our regimens. Results may vary based on the individual users and are not guaranteed. Plus, the results of therapy can vary per individual. In general, the longer the length of MeRT therapy, the longer the changes remain.

Insurance Coverage

We are an in-network provider with TRICARE. If you have TRICARE insurance, it is possible that your policy may provide coverage, depending on your specific situation. Our New Patient Coordinator can discuss this with you in further detail.

For all other insurance, we are considered out of network and cannot file an insurance claim on your behalf. We can, however, provide you with the paperwork at the end of your treatment, which you can submit to your insurance company to see if they may provide you with any reimbursement.

Currently, rTMS is FDA cleared for Depression and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.) Treatment for all other conditions is considered “off-label.” However, for non-FDA-approved treatment, it is not likely that insurance will provide reimbursement for our protocols.

Some patients have reported that they have been able to receive some reimbursement for EEGs or clinical evaluations. But this depends on their health coverage. Medicare patients have reported that their coverage provides no reimbursement for MeRT.

We take all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

Care Credit is also an option to help finance medical expenses. This is a separate company from The Brain Treatment Center in Newport Beach. Care Credit is a credit card that can cover medical expenses and services. They typically offer zero-interest financing for 12 months.

Usually, when you go to the Care Credit website and apply, they will promptly let you know your approval status.

Starting as a New Patient after a Stroke

To get started, we will schedule an initial qEEG and then follow that with a consultation with one of our clinicians who can explain the results, and then we will proceed into the assessment period for treatment. During the assessment period, we will administer every day, Monday through Thursday, followed by a repeat qEEG on Friday, to see how you or your child are responding. If there is a positive response to treatment during the assessment period, you will have likely noticed some improvements starting to take place, and we will then schedule for the additional treatment duration.

Typically, MeRT treatment lasts anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks. However, we recommend additional treatment in some cases for optimal results. Each individual is different, and protocols may vary. Your provider will have regularly scheduled follow-up EEGs and meet with you to gauge your progress.

Contact Our New Patient Coordinator for Additional Information

It’s normal for patients and their families affected by brain disorders to feel alone, frustrated, and hopeless. Yet, there is hope. MeRT is a treatment protocol that has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and get a whole new lease on life.

We understand what you are going through. Our goal is to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child.

Many of our clinicians and technicians have gone through MeRT treatment and have experienced incredible results firsthand. As a result, they are passionate about helping you to heal too.

Our New Patient Coordinator is available to answer any questions that you may have about how MeRT can help you specifically. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease. She can also assist in getting you scheduled with the clinic should you decide to move forward with treatment.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator or Fill in the Form below

(949) 851-3086