Functional Neurology is a subspecialty within Chiropractic medicine that focuses on the nervous system's function and how it relates to overall health. It developed as an alternative approach to traditional medicine, as chiropractors do not use pharmaceuticals or surgery as therapeutic options. Instead, functional neurologists use spinal and extremity manipulations to send afferent input (a signal) to specific areas of the brain, taking advantage of proprioception, one of the primary inputs to the brain. Proprioception is crucial in maintaining balance and spatial awareness and preventing falls, which is a leading cause of accidental human death.

Chiropractic functional neurology uses the central integrated state theory principles developed by Sir Charles Sherrington. This Nobel Prize-winning theory describes how the nervous system's ability to "fire" is the sum of all its activating and inhibiting inputs. The nervous system relies on the communication between various visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, and cortical integrations. Functional lesions are abnormalities in the nervous system with no organic pathology, making them amenable to improvement through chiropractic functional neurology.

It was once believed that the nervous system was fixed after childhood, meaning it could not be changed after a certain age. Now we know that it is capable of remarkable change. The brain and nervous system can be shaped or changed by sensory, motor, or cognitive experiences through temporal- and spatial-summative neural activation to rewire and reprogram the nervous system. Nerve cells can grow new connections to different neurons and use neuronal migration to extend to more distant areas. This is why "practice makes perfect" is how humans learn new skills.

Neurological Conditions Supported By Functional Neurologists
Functional neurology can be used to support a variety of conditions affecting the nervous system. Patients experiencing neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Multiple system atrophy may find support through functional neurology. Demyelinating conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, transverse myelitis, and leukodystrophies may also be supported using this approach.

Patients with traumatic brain injuries, including concussions and whiplash, may find support through functional neurology. Vestibular conditions such as motion sickness, dizziness, and Meniere's disease, as well as movement disorders like tics, restless leg syndrome, and dystonia, may also be supported using functional neurology.
Children with neuro-developmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and dyslexia may also benefit from this type of care. Patients experiencing nerve disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigeminal neuralgia, and Bell's palsy may also find support through functional neurology.

Cerebrovascular disorders such as stroke and TIA may be supported using functional neurology, as well as chronic musculoskeletal discomfort affecting the arm, leg, back, hip, knee, or feet. Patients experiencing headaches and discomfort syndromes such as cluster headaches, complex regional pain syndrome, migraines, and fibromyalgia may also find support.
Finally, functional neurological disorders, which cause physical, sensory, and cognitive symptoms without an identifiable organic cause, may also be addressed through functional neurology.
Functional neurology is considered a safe option for patients of all ages, including children.

When To See a Functional Neurologist
Functional Neurology is an alternative approach to traditional neurology that aims to optimize the functioning of the nervous system instead of just looking for the absence or presence of neurological diseases. If you're experiencing neurological symptoms like paralysis, seizures, discomfort, neuropathy, and more, and your doctor cannot pinpoint the organic cause of your symptoms, it may be time to see a functional neurologist.
During your visit, the functional neurologist will take a thorough case history and perform a non-invasive examination. The plan is specific to the patient's current health and may include assessing copies of blood tests, x-rays, MRIs, or other tests.

The practitioner will observe all aspects of the patient during the examination, including eye movement, posture, the presence or absence of tics, and more, as these are all indications of how the nervous system is functioning. Additionally, blood pressure, pulse, and reflexes may also be assessed. During the thorough examination, care is individualized to ensure that the patient's anxiety levels are not provoked.

If you're experiencing neurological symptoms that traditional neurology cannot explain, functional neurology may be a viable alternative to help optimize the functioning of your nervous system.

Common Neurologic Functional Medicine Labs
Outside of conventional assessments such as a physical exam, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and video-nystagmography (VNG), to detect or exclude any severe pathologies that may be present, functional neurology may also incorporate blind spot mapping (a functional eye exam). In functional neurology, blind spot mapping is used to identify physiological lesions that may be affecting a patient's nervous system.

Functional neurology also involves a holistic approach that considers the role of biochemistry and nutrition in neurological health. Practitioners may use functional lab testing to identify potential toxins, infections, or other factors like nutrients that could impact neurons. Then, this information is used to develop a personalized plan that may include dietary modifications and nutritional supplements to support optimal neural function. 

Infections Assessment
Checking for infections is crucial as they can negatively impact the nervous system. Labs such as blood and stool tests can help identify underlying infections that may be contributing to neurological symptoms.

Nutrient Deficiency
Checking for nutrients is essential in functional neurology as it can help identify any deficiencies or imbalances that may be affecting the nervous system and impacting overall neurological function. Proper nutrition is crucial for optimal brain and nervous system health.
The aim is to maximize brain and nervous system health, improve neurological processing, and enhance communication between the body and the brain. Plans are tailored to each patient's needs and are adjusted based on their progress from visit to visit.

Do Functional Neurologists Take Insurance?
While functional neurologists are chiropractors, they differ from traditional chiropractors in their focus on neurological function rather than just musculoskeletal issues. They use a range of diagnostic tools and techniques, including neurological exams, imaging studies, and laboratory tests, to assess the function of the nervous system and determine the underlying cause of a patient's symptoms. Support may involve a combination of chiropractic adjustments, exercises, nutritional support, and other therapies, all tailored to the patient's individual needs. 

Insurance does not cover Functional Neurology


Summary
Functional neurology aims to assess and support neurological disorders and dysfunctions by optimizing the function of the nervous system. It takes a holistic approach to patient care and focuses on the underlying factors of neurological problems rather than simply addressing symptoms. Functional neurologists use a variety of techniques to assess the nervous system, including neurological exams, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Support may involve a combination of manual therapies, sensory stimulation, and nutritional and lifestyle changes. Functional neurology can be particularly helpful for patients with chronic conditions, such as concussion, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. The goal of functional neurology is to optimize the function of the nervous system, improve neurological processing, and enhance communication within the brain and also between the brain and the rest of the body.
By addressing underlying factors that may be contributing to neurological dysfunction, functional neurologists can help patients achieve optimal neurological function and improve their quality of life.
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