Cosmetic Neurology/Peak Neurological Performance

Athletes and related stake holders (parents, trainers, coaches, agents, administrative personnel) have become more sophisticated in their realization that Neurological skills and functions are key factors in performance. So key, in fact, that they are often a bigger contributor to elite performance than more traditionally trained functions like cardiovascular (aerobic exercise/fitness), and musculoskeletal (strength, flexibility, speed, etc.) factors. At every level of participation (youth, high school, collegiate, professional) there may be a few outliers, but usually there is not much significant difference from one player to the next regarding height, weight, strength, and aerobic fitness. However, consider the following Neurological functions and skills:

• Vision
• Balance
• Proprioception
• Vestibular
• Focus
• Concentration/Cognitive Endurance
• Reaction Time
• Speed of Muscle Activation
• Speed of Mental Processing/Decision Making
• Accuracy

These are often the characteristics that set the elite performers apart from pack. Kobe Bryant wasn’t necessarily the tallest, fastest, strongest, or most aerobically fit player in the NBA or on his team. But nobody would argue against his Neurological skills and functions as being on a completely different level than most.

It turns out that just like the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal profiles and functions can be assessed and graded, we can evaluate an individual’s Neurological functions and skills. And due to the principles of Neuromodulation and Neuroplasticity, these we know these things can be practiced and trained to optimization and Peak Performance. Improving your brain significantly improves ALL performance, whether related to athleticism, academic achievement, professional/career success, or successful aging.

The Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine has a number of diagnostic tools and training technologies and techniques at our disposal. We focus on objective assessment using measurements that can be repeated over time to assess progress. We educate and institute purposeful physical and cognitive training in conjunction with consultation regarding optimization of sleep, diet, and nutrition. We perform Neurological surveillance and regular re-assessments, following function over time in recognition of the importance of Neurological health across the lifespan.