Sidney Crosby & Dr. Ted Carrick

After suffering two significant blows to the head in January 2011, NHL Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins missed the next 11 months of hockey. Post-concussion symptoms can leave a person feeling dizzy, confused, light-headed and unable to tolerate loud noises or bright lights. Some sufferers also experience balance problems, changes to their sleeping patterns, distortion in their vision and mood swings.

After missing a year of his career, and being in and out of the lineup in early 2012 Crosby was treated by Dr. Ted Carrick, Canadian chiropractor who specializes in chiropractic neurology. Crosby credited the doctor with helping him return from his concussions.

Carrick founded the Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies to teach his method of treating brain injuries. Viewed by some medical professionals as unorthodox, Carrick's holistic approach has gained notoriety through his work with Crosby.

Carrick's treatment combines chiropractic practice with neurology and includes the use of a whole-body gyroscope, a rotating chair which spins upside down in an effort to stimulate the brain. He takes a different approach to brain injuries focusing on spatial awareness. It is notably different from the rest and wait recommendation of most medical doctors, who suggest someone who has suffered a concussion refrain from physical and mental activities until all symptoms disappear.

Carrick encourages his patients to rest immediately after the injury occurs, but then incorporates stimulation into the treatment, based on a thorough neurological exam that pinpoints their particular problems or symptoms as well as what brain functions are most viable. The stimulations might include eye or balance exercises, multi-tasking activities or body rotations.