Blog | | Bastiaan Meijer

How Data-Driven Rehabilitation Helped Me Recover from a Ski Accident and Severe Concussion

In early 2024, what was supposed to be a relaxed and active ski trip in the Austrian Alps took a dramatic turn. I was found unconscious at the bottom of a slope after suffering a tonic-clonic seizure. The fall resulted in multiple facial fractures, memory loss, and a painful shoulder injury. Sixteen hours later, I had another seizure in the hospital, nearly progressing into status epilepticus — my first seizure in 25 years. Further medical examinations revealed the return of my epilepsy and the presence of a DVA (Developmental Venous Anomaly) in my brain. For someone used to leading an active and demanding life — both personally and professionally — it was a massive shock.

Recovery Starts with Insight: Data as My Compass

In the weeks that followed, I experienced fatigue, muscle tightness in my neck and upper back, and trouble concentrating, especially during long screen sessions. I had to scale down my workload, give up sports, and adjust to an entirely new rhythm.

Fortunately, I wasn’t alone. I had access to the very technology I’ve spent years introducing to therapists and clinics around the world. At Leef Centre in Heerhugowaard, I was guided by a team of skilled therapists who struck the right tone during every phase of my recovery, translating uncertainty into achievable goals for daily functioning and work reintegration.

With the DAVID Balance Module, I could compare my balance profile from before the accident (December 2023) with my condition after (May 2024).

The differences were clear:

  • Reduced stability with eyes closed
  • Slight asymmetries and compensatory movement patterns

  • Indicators of neuromuscular fatigue

T0 – Balance test before accident

Yet instead of discouraging me, this data gave me direction. I could see exactly where I was — and more importantly — where I could go. Together with my rehabilitation doctor, neurologist, and physiotherapist, we created a roadmap for continued recovery.

T1 – Balance test after accident.

DAVID Cervical Therapy: My Personal Rehab Plan

DAVID Cervical Therapy: My Personal Rehab Plan

My biggest physical issue was in my neck — stiffness, limited mobility, and tension after longer workdays. That’s why I started focused training on the DAVID G110, G140, and G160 devices, specially designed for the cervical and spinal regions.

In addition to this device-based therapy, I also regularly performed dual-task exercises to aid recovery from a severe concussion, improving my balance, coordination, and cognitive function.

Week by week, I saw real progress:

  • +30% increase in neck muscle strength

  • +30% improvement in mobility

  • Reduced muscle tension and postural fatigue

These weren’t just statistics — they were proof of progress. A sense of regaining control. Tangible milestones on the road to recovery.

What I Learned

I’ve always believed in measurable, data-driven care. But going through this process myself gave me a deeper understanding. Rehabilitation isn’t just about muscles or joints — it’s about trust, motivation, and knowing that every session moves you closer to recovery. The EVE software helped me every step of the way: tracking repetitions, adjusting intensity, and visualising my progress. It brought structure and confidence to my journey, precisely what we aim to offer to every patient recovering from injury, trauma, or surgery.

A year later, I was back on my feet — enjoying an active vacation again, this time a heli ski trip through the Canadian Rockies.

Why I’m Sharing This

As a marketing professional, I’m usually the one sharing other people’s stories.
But this is my story.
And it reaffirmed why I believe so strongly in what we do at DAVID.

We don’t just build machines.
We help people rebuild their lives with confidence, independence, and a fresh start.

Are you a therapist, physician, or patient looking for proven solutions for back pain, joint rehabilitation, or musculoskeletal conditions?

Let’s build smarter recovery — together.

Bastiaan Meijer
Marketing Manager
DAVID Health Solutions