Why I Use Evidence-Based Care for Concussion and Injury Rehab in Kansas City

Concussion and injury rehab should be based on science, not guesswork. Kansas City chiropractor Dr. Lance Stevenson shares why he relies on evidence-based care to help patients in Shawnee, Lee’s Summit, and Parkville recover safely and effectively.

Lance Stevenson, DC

12/17/20253 min read

Why I Use Evidence-Based Care for Concussion and Injury Rehab in Kansas City

When it comes to healing after a concussion, whiplash, or car accident injury, one-size-fits-all care simply doesn’t work. At my Kansas City clinic, I don’t guess — I use evidence-based care to guide every decision, because it gives my patients the best chance of a full recovery.

I’m Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC, and whether you were injured in a car crash, suffered a sports concussion, or are dealing with chronic post-concussion symptoms (PCS), my goal is the same: to use proven, research-backed methods that help your brain and body heal the right way.

What Is Evidence-Based Care?

Evidence-based care combines three key components:

  1. The best available research

  2. Clinical expertise

  3. Your individual needs, goals, and preferences

It’s not just about what works in theory — it’s about what works in the real world, with patients just like you.

Why It Matters for Concussion and Auto Injury Recovery

After a concussion or auto injury, your brain and body are in a fragile, reactive state. Using outdated advice (like “just rest” for weeks) or random treatment plans can leave you stuck — or worse, make your symptoms last longer.

Research now shows that active, system-specific rehab is more effective than passive rest. Evidence-based protocols help us determine:

  • When to safely return to work or school

  • Which systems (vestibular, visual, cervical, autonomic) need treatment

  • What exercise level is safe and helpful

  • How to reduce the risk of reinjury or persistent symptoms

And because I stay current with the latest clinical guidelines — including those from the Amsterdam Concussion Consensus, CDC Return to Learn/Play Protocols, and peer-reviewed trials on VOR, cervical rehab, and autonomic dysfunction — I can confidently design treatment that actually works.

What It Looks Like in My Kansas City Clinic

Whether you're from Lee’s Summit, Liberty, Overland Park, or The Plaza, my approach includes:

Objective testing (balance, eye movements, reflexes, neck mobility, VOR, COR)
Targeted rehab based on your symptom subtype
Return-to-play and return-to-work protocols that follow national guidelines
Coordination with attorneys and other providers for complete care
Customized plans — because no two concussions are the same

Evidence-Based Doesn’t Mean Cookie-Cutter

Some patients worry that “evidence-based” means standardized or impersonal care. But it’s the opposite.

Using evidence helps me understand why your symptoms are happening — then combine that with your history, exam findings, and goals to create a truly personalized plan.

For example:

  • If you have dizziness triggered by motion, I know research supports VOR and vestibular rehab over medication.

  • If your neck is stiff and painful with visual symptoms, we apply cervical spine treatment + eye-head coordination drills.

  • If you have brain fog and light sensitivity, we investigate autonomic regulation and screen your oculomotor system.

That’s not guessing. That’s evidence in action.

The Bottom Line: Better Outcomes, Less Guesswork

You deserve care that’s grounded in science, not trends. By using evidence-based practices, I help patients:

  • Heal faster

  • Avoid unnecessary imaging or medications

  • Return safely to work, school, or sport

  • Build confidence in their recovery plan

  • Communicate more clearly with attorneys and insurers

Looking for an Evidence-Based Concussion Expert in Kansas City?

If you’ve had a car accident, concussion, or ongoing PCS symptoms — and you want answers rooted in research, not guesswork — I’m here to help.

Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC offers evidence-based care for patients in Kansas City, Overland Park, Blue Springs, Raytown, and surrounding areas.

Call 816-226-7476 today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation and get the clarity your recovery deserves.


Special thanks to Complete Concussions for their training and educational resources. To learn more about comprehensive concussion treatment options, visit completeconcussions.com.


Disclaimer:

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. If you have experienced a concussion or other injury, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Always follow the advice and treatment plan given by your medical professional.


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