Functional Neurology

The brain/nervous system is the most important organ system in the body maintaining control and directing all other parts and systems of the body in an orderly and synchronized fashion. Like a computer, the brain processes information it receives from the body and sends a response back based on the feedback it receives.

It was once believed the brain cannot change after maturity. Neuroscience however has established the brain can learn throughout one’s entire life. This concept is named neuroplasticity, where brain function can change through specific, repetitive action and develop more efficient pathways for the brain to communicate. Brain health is integral in every area of physical, chemical and emotional well-being. When the relationship between the body and the brain becomes dysfunctional, subtle changes occur in the nervous system and result in symptomatology in physical, chemical or emotional health.

A functional neurologist differs from a medical neurologist in that traditional medicine is looking for disease processes of the nervous system and pathologies (i.e strokes, lesions, tumors etc). Unless pathological findings are observed in patients, little to no treatment options are available. In our experience, patient suffering from symptoms associated with various neurological conditions generally do not have pathological neurological findings but rather functional dysfunctions and imbalances of the nervous systems which can be corrected.

Functional neurology is a field of study that achieves successful results by applying evidence-based procedures and current understanding of neuroscience and neuroplasticity, using a wide array of therapies or applications, to increase and enhance human functioning without use of drugs or surgery. Therapeutic activities and exercises are derived from disciplines such as neurology, orthopedics, optometry, physical therapy, and chiropractic. Some examples of the multifaceted treatment approach and skilled rehabilitation include: ocular therapy, vestibular therapy, balance and coordination retraining, auditory/visual/color therapy, aroma therapy, electrical and vibration therapy, laser therapy, gait retraining/therapy, sensory motor integration, rhythm and timing training, primitive reflex retraining, postural training, mindfulness and breathing techniques and Neurofeedback.

At Innovative Health & Wellness, we use individualized comprehensive evaluations, gold standard diagnostic testing and cutting-edge treatment modalities to assess the function of the brain/nervous system and examine ways in which the brain and body are communicating—or rather, not communicating. This unique perspective enables us to objectively understand and effectively manage a wide variety of complex neurological conditions. We believe there is a bio-individuality to the nervous system, just as individual as a fingerprint and even those with similar symptoms may require different treatments specific to the patient who is being treated.

Our team of doctors are specialized in working with various symptoms associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (i.e. ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Dyslexia), neurodegenerative disorders (i.e. early Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease) and traumatic and vascular injuries (i.e Traumatic brain injuries, Post-Concussion Syndrome, Strokes, Hypoxia, Whiplash). Some common symptoms functional neurology can offer answers for include:

• Balance disorders
• Dizziness/vertigo
• Dystonia
• Headaches/Migraines
• Insomnia/sleeping difficulties
• Tremor Disorders
• Neck pain
• Numbness/tingling
• Tinnitus
• Chronic pain syndromes

Whether you are recovering from an injury, dealing with a chronic disease, or just want to perform better athletically, fine tuning your brain is essential for optimal health. Call us with questions at 214-972-0302!