When chronic inflammation takes over your body, it can feel like life as you know it is slipping away. For one patient, a post-concussion injury triggered extreme histamine reactions and systemic inflammation, making even simple activities a challenge. But with innovative treatments and persistence, she was able to recover, reclaim her health, and get back to her favorite activity of all—surfing.
This inspiring recovery story provides insights into histamine reactions, chronic inflammation, and advanced therapies like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem Cells (VSEL).
What is a Histamine Reaction?
Histamine is a natural chemical 
released during allergic or inflammatory responses. It plays a key role in swelling, redness, and itching—common symptoms we associate with allergies. However, when histamine is released in excessive amounts, it can indicate deeper health issues, such as chronic inflammation or immune system dysfunction.
Why Do Histamine Reactions Happen?
Histamine reactions often occur when the body is overreacting to triggers, such as allergens, injury, or stress. Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) are known to involve heightened histamine activity, leading to exaggerated inflammatory responses.
The Patient’s Story: Acupuncture and Inflammation
After a car accident left her with post-concussion syndrome, this patient experienced severe systemic inflammation. One striking symptom was her reaction to acupuncture: needle sites would become intensely red and swollen due to excessive histamine release.
This unusual response was more than a symptom—it was a sign of the profound inflammation affecting her entire body. For those with MCAS or similar conditions, such heightened reactions are a common but challenging hurdle.
Breakthrough Treatments for Chronic Inflammation
To calm her systemic inflammation and address her concussion symptoms, the patient pursued advanced therapies:
1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): A regenerative treatment that uses concentrated platelets from the patient’s blood to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
2. Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem Cell (VSEL) Injections: Administered both locally and systemically, including directly to the brain, to repair damaged tissue and regulate immune responses.
Over several months of treatment, her body’s inflammatory responses began to normalize. Acupuncture sessions no longer caused intense redness or swelling—a clear indication that her histamine levels were under control.
From Inflammation to Surfing: The Results
As her inflammation subsided, the
patient’s quality of life improved dramatically:
● Symptom Resolution: The chronic symptoms of post-concussion syndrome and inflammation faded.
● Lifestyle Return: She was able to travel, surf, and work again—activities that once felt out of reach.
● Reduced Inflammatory Responses: Her normalized reaction to acupuncture reflected a healthier immune system.
How These Results Help Others
For individuals battling conditions like EDS, MCAS, or chronic inflammation, this story is proof that recovery is possible. Advanced treatments like PRP and VSEL can address underlying inflammation, allowing patients to regain control of their lives and reconnect with the activities they love.
Connection to Surfing 🌊
Dr. Greenberg loves to be active, which is one of the reasons why he understands just how important it is to get his patients back to doing the activities they love. When he’s not caring for his patients he’ll be found biking, boxing, hiking, walking his dogs, and surfing—something he and this patient have in common!
Surfing, a symbol of freedom and connection with nature, became a powerful representation of this patient’s recovery. We are so glad that she can get back to doing what she loves while sharing the joy of surfing again with someone who understands how amazing it feels to catch a wave!
Healing from Histamine Reactions and Inflammation
Histamine reactions and chronic inflammation can disrupt your life, but they don’t have to define it. With the right treatments and a comprehensive approach to healing, you can overcome these challenges and rediscover the joy of doing what you love.
If you’re struggling with inflammation, post-concussion syndrome, or related conditions, this journey serves as a hopeful example. Recovery is possible, and life’s waves are waiting for you to ride again.
