Concussion Pilot Programs

The Ricky Williams Concussion Pilot Programs are pilot studies investigating manual therapy techniques (CranioSacral therapy, Visceral Manipulation, Neuromeningeal Manipulation ) and post-concussion syndrome in ex-NFL players. The first program was conducted at the Upledger Institute July 13-18, 2014, by 5 lead therapists and teams of assistant therapists, in addition to 3 research directors, results of the study are being compiled and will be published.  

For the second program, held September 2015, Melinda Roland was both Research Director as well as Lead Therapist.   Results of both studies have been compiled analyzed and accepted for publication. (see Publications section)  Clinical results from both studies are both convincing and inspiring.   Please read below for testimonials and video highlights.

Intensive programs as well as regular appointments for treatment of post-concussion syndrome led by Dr. Melinda Roland are available for professional, college, high school, and amateur athletes, as well as non-athletes.  

A brief summary of the pilot program with player perspective on their experience. The changes experienced by each player after this intensive 5 day program are moving and inspiring. They are a testimony to the power of manual therapies like craniosacral therapy and visceral manipulation.

Click on the link to view a PDF document of testimonials from NFL players and others on the extraordinary results of treatment with Melinda Roland / IIT as well as the Ricky Williams Concussion Program!

Articles & Publications

PT Pro Talk Podcast: CST and Concussion - a pilot program with ex-NFL players with Melinda Roland

“The CST is the PERFECT tool to add to concussion recovery, but it’s not the ONLY tool to use.”

-Melinda Roland

CranioSacral Therapy and Visceral Manipulation: A New Treatment Intervention for Concussion Recovery

Military service members and veterans face health issues related to traumatic brain injury (TBI), especially during combat, use of heavy equipment, and exposures to environmental hazards and explosives. There were 400,000 TBIs reported in deployed U.S. troops in 2012. Athletes are also subject to TBI. Studies have indicated that some manual therapies could be helpful for treating patients who have post-concussive syndrome.

Massage Magazine

CranioSacral Therapy to Address Post-concussion Syndrome.

The Missing Puzzle Piece:  Upledger Craniosacral Therapy in the Treatment of Post-Concussion Syndrome

Traumatic Brain injury (TBI) is defined as “a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury”. (CDC).   Concussion is considered a mild TBI, and is a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain that may or may not involve a loss of consciousness.