The Powerful Brain-Heart Connection: Understanding Its Role in Concussion, POTS, and Dysautonomia
At NeuroSport Spine and Concussion Center, we understand that the health of the brain and heart are deeply interconnected, particularly in conditions like concussion and dysautonomia. This complex relationship has significant implications for both diagnosis and treatment. NeuroSport CEO, Bill Moreau, DC DACBSP, is a pioneer in developing the Moreau POTS Protocol—an innovative intervention that leverages neuroplasticity to rebuild and strengthen the brain-heart connection in individuals with post-concussion syndrome, POTS, and dysautonomia. Let’s take a closer look at how the brain and heart communicate, and how this connection can impact your overall health.
The Brain-Heart Connection: A Complex Feedback Loop
The brain and heart are in constant communication through what’s known as the "neurocardiac axis," a vital pathway that operates through the autonomic nervous system (ANS). This system regulates involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion, ensuring the body maintains balance (homeostasis). Through this feedback loop, the heart rate and blood pressure adjust in response to signals from the brain, and vice versa, to maintain equilibrium.
For example, when the brain perceives a threat—whether physical, emotional, or environmental—it activates the sympathetic nervous system, triggering the fight-or-flight response. This response increases heart rate and blood pressure to prepare the body for action. Conversely, when the brain signals the need for recovery or relaxation, the parasympathetic nervous system kicks in, slowing the heart rate and promoting rest. However, in individuals with post-concussion syndrome, POTS, and dysautonomia, this balance becomes disrupted. These conditions often lead to a dominance of the sympathetic system, making it difficult for the body to activate the parasympathetic response and enter a state of recovery.
Concussions and the Brain-Heart Connection
A concussion disrupts the normal functioning of the brain, impairing its ability to effectively communicate with the rest of the body. Research has shown that a concussion reduces blood flow to the injured part of the brain. This decrease in blood flow leads to hypoxia (reduced oxygen supply) and hypoglycemia (insufficient glucose availability), both of which negatively affect the brain’s function. As a result, the brain’s ability to regulate autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses—such as communication with the heart and other vital organs—becomes compromised.
In many concussion patients who do not recover as expected, this disruption in brain function can lead to autonomic dysfunction, where the brain and heart fall out of sync. This misalignment is believed to be a key factor in the development of post-concussion syndrome (PCS).
Dr. Bill Moreau and the NeuroSport team focuses on treating the cascade from concussion to post-concussion syndrome, dysautonomia, and neurogenic POTS. The resulting autonomic dysfunction can manifest in symptoms such as:
Elevated heart rate
Postural dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue
Difficulty regulating blood pressure
These symptoms are commonly seen in conditions like neurogenic POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), which frequently arises in post-concussion patients. In such cases, the heart may race when the individual stands up, or they may experience lightheadedness due to a drop in blood pressure. This imbalance between the brain and heart can severely impact daily life, making everyday activities difficult or even debilitating.
Dysautonomia and the Brain-Heart Connection
Dysautonomia is a condition where the autonomic nervous system (ANS) fails to function properly, further complicating the brain-heart connection. For patients with dysautonomia, the disruption in ANS regulation can cause a range of symptoms affecting both the brain and heart. When the brain is unable to properly manage heart function due to ANS dysfunction, patients often experience:
Heart palpitations
Fainting or near-fainting episodes
Mental fog or difficulty concentrating
Chronic fatigue
At NeuroSport, we take a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, using advanced diagnostic tools to assess both the brain and autonomic nervous system. By gaining a deeper understanding of how the brain-heart connection is disrupted, we can develop personalized treatment plans that restore balance and improve overall quality of life. Our goal is to help patients regain control of their health and manage symptoms effectively through tailored interventions that address both the brain and the autonomic system.
Treatment Approaches for Concussion and Dysautonomia
Addressing the brain-heart connection issues requires a comprehensive approach that targets both the brain and the autonomic nervous system simultaneously. One of the key mechanisms for repair is neuroplasticity, the brain's remarkable ability to reorganize and form new neural connections in response to injury or dysfunction. By leveraging neuroplasticity, we can help rebuild and strengthen the brain-heart connection, promoting recovery and improving autonomic function.
At NeuroSport, our specialized care includes:
Autonomic Rehabilitation: We use the Moreau POTS Protocol (MPP), a combination of exercise-based protocols, to challenge, re-establish and improve the function of the autonomic system. Real-time cardiac monitoring during supervised exercise allows us to adjust exercise intensity for optimal results, ensuring that each patient’s autonomic system is progressively strengthened.
Customized Care: Every patient is unique, and so is their treatment. We recognize the individuality of each person and take a personalized approach in designing and advancing their MPP. By collaborating with all providers involved in the patient’s care, we ensure a holistic, multidisciplinary approach that best meets the patient’s needs and promotes optimal outcomes.
Personalized Exercise Plans: These plans focus on gentle cardiovascular exercises tailored to each patient’s specific condition. The goal is to improve heart rate variability and gradually restore normal autonomic function, allowing the body to function more efficiently over time.
Education and Lifestyle Modifications: Understanding how to manage symptoms is a crucial part of recovery. We work closely with patients to help them adopt strategies for managing stress, improving posture, staying hydrated, and optimizing nutrition—key elements that support the autonomic system and overall health.
Final Thoughts
The brain-heart connection is fundamental to how we feel and function throughout the day, especially for individuals recovering from concussion or managing conditions like POTS and dysautonomia. At NeuroSport, we are dedicated to understanding the complex mechanisms that influence both the brain and heart. Through a thorough and multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment, we empower our patients to regain control of their health and improve their quality of life.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms related to concussion, dysautonomia, or other autonomic disorders, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our team. Together, we can work to restore balance, enhance your well-being, and guide you toward a healthier future.
References
Leddy, J. J., & Willer, B. (2018). Concussion and the Autonomic Nervous System: Pathophysiology and Treatment. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 17(8), 236-242.
This review article discusses the relationship between concussion and autonomic dysfunction, highlighting the impact on cardiovascular and nervous system function.
Sharma, V. K., & Agarwal, P. (2019). Post-Concussion Syndrome and Autonomic Dysfunction: Insights into Neurogenic POTS. Journal of Clinical Neurology, 15(3), 252-259.
This article explores the connection between post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and neurogenic POTS, emphasizing shared mechanisms and clinical management strategies.
Stewart, J. M. (2017). The Role of Autonomic Dysfunction in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Concussion Recovery. Autonomic Neuroscience: Basic and Clinical, 203, 30-39.
This study examines the role of autonomic dysfunction in POTS and how it can complicate concussion recovery, providing insight into treatment options.
Prakash, A., & Gupta, N. (2021). Neuroplasticity in Concussion Rehabilitation: Rebuilding the Brain-Heart Connection. Journal of Neurotrauma, 38(6), 1505-1514.
A comprehensive look at how neuroplasticity contributes to concussion rehabilitation, with a focus on restoring autonomic function and the brain-heart connection.
Figueroa, J. A., & Burns, S. R. (2020). Neurogenic POTS: Pathophysiology and Management Approaches in Post-Concussion Patients. Frontiers in Neurology, 11, 588049.
This paper provides an overview of neurogenic POTS in post-concussion patients, discussing pathophysiology and management approaches.
Reputable Websites for More Information
Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA)
Website: https://www.biausa.orgA leading organization offering resources, research, and support for individuals affected by brain injuries, including concussion.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Website: https://www.ninds.nih.govNINDS provides valuable information on neurological disorders, including concussion, dysautonomia, and POTS, backed by the latest scientific research.
Dysautonomia International
Website: https://www.dysautonomiainternational.orgA nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, resources, and support for individuals with dysautonomia and related autonomic disorders like POTS.
Concussion Legacy Foundation
Website: https://concussionfoundation.orgA trusted source for concussion research, clinical insights, and advocacy, supporting those affected by concussions and related brain injuries.
The American Autonomic Society
Website: https://www.autonomsociety.orgAn authoritative organization focused on autonomic disorders, offering resources for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
