Definitive Guide to Functional Neurology

Functional Neurology is a relatively new and rapidly growing field that aims to address the underlying causes of neurological disorders and chronic conditions rather than just managing symptoms. This FAQ article will provide an overview of the field, including what it is, the conditions it treats, and how it works, as well as information on the risks and benefits of functional neurology and how to find a practitioner.

What is Functional Neurology?

Functional Neurology is an integrative approach to treating neurological disorders that combines traditional neurology with other disciplines, such as functional medicine, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Functional neurology aims to identify and address the underlying causes of neurological disorders rather than just managing symptoms.

Functional Neurology is different from traditional neurology in that it focuses on the patient rather than just their symptoms. This approach includes evaluating the patient’s diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits and conducting a thorough examination of the patient’s nervous system.

Techniques used in Functional Neurology include a variety of therapeutic exercises, such as balance and coordination exercises, as well as nutritional and lifestyle recommendations. Some practitioners may also use neurofeedback, which is a form of biofeedback that uses brainwave activity to help patients learn to control their brain activity.

 

Conditions Treated by Functional Neurology

Functional Neurology can be used to treat a wide range of neurological disorders, including:

Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease

• Chronic pain, such as headaches, migraines, and back pain
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
• Vestibular and balance disorders
• Developmental disorders such as autism and ADHD

Functional Neurology can also address chronic conditions with a neurological component, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and autoimmune disorders.

 

How Does Functional Neurology Work?

The first step in functional neurology is conducting a thorough assessment and evaluating the patient’s nervous system. This may include a variety of tests, such as balance and coordination tests, as well as a thorough examination of the patient’s diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits.

Based on the assessment results, the practitioner will develop a personalized treatment plan for the patient. Treatment options may include a variety of therapeutic exercises, such as balance and coordination exercises, as well as nutritional and lifestyle recommendations.

Some practitioners may also use neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback that uses brainwave activity to help patients learn to control their brain activity. Neurofeedback aims to help patients learn to control their brain activity, which can help reduce symptoms of neurological disorders and chronic conditions.

 

Risks and Benefits of Functional Neurology

As with any medical treatment, there are risks and benefits associated with functional neurology. 

Some of the potential risks and side effects include:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Dizziness

However, the benefits of functional neurology can be significant and include the following:

• Improved symptoms of neurological disorders and chronic conditions
• Increased energy levels
• Improved sleep
• Improved mood

 

Research and scientific evidence on the effectiveness of functional neurology is still in the early stages. However, a growing body of evidence supports the use of functional neurology in treating neurological disorders and chronic conditions.

One of the key principles of Functional Neurology is that the brain and body are interconnected and that problems in one area can affect the functioning of other areas. This is known as “neuroplasticity,” which means that the brain has the ability to reorganize and adapt to changes in the environment.

Functional Neurologists use various techniques to help the brain and body adapt to changes and improve function. These techniques include:

Vision therapy: This is a form of physical therapy for the eyes that helps improve visual function, such as tracking and focusing, and visual-spatial abilities.

Auditory therapy: This is a form of physical therapy for the ears that helps to improve hearing and balance function.

Vestibular therapy: This is a form of physical therapy for the inner ear that helps to improve balance and coordination.

Cranial therapy: This is a form of physical therapy for the skull that helps improve the cranial nerves’ functioning, which is responsible for various functions such as smell, taste, and eye movement.

Oculomotor therapy: This form of physical therapy helps improve the functioning of the muscles responsible for eye movement.

Rehabilitation exercises: These exercises are designed to help improve the functioning of the nervous system, such as balance and coordination exercises, fine and gross motor exercises, and cognitive exercises.

Functional Neurology can also be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. A holistic approach is often used to ensure that the patient receives the most comprehensive care possible.

Functional Neurology can be particularly beneficial for patients suffering from chronic conditions for a long time or who have not responded to traditional treatments. It can also be used to help prevent neurological conditions from developing in the first place by addressing underlying issues contributing to the condition’s development.

 

Notable Uses of Functional Neurology

The use of functional neurology in sports medicine can help athletes improve their performance and recover from injuries by addressing underlying neurological issues affecting their abilities. For example, an athlete who has suffered a concussion may have difficulty with balance and coordination, affecting their ability to perform on the field or court. A functional neurologist can use techniques such as vision and vestibular therapy to help the athlete improve their balance and coordination and return to their sport. Additionally, functional neurology can also help athletes improve their cognitive function, such as reaction time and memory, which can help them perform better.

The use of functional neurology in pediatrics: Functional neurology can help children with developmental disorders, such as autism and ADHD, and other neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy and dyspraxia. For example, children with autism may have difficulty with social interactions, communication, and sensory processing. A functional neurologist can use techniques such as vision therapy and auditory therapy to help the child improve their ability to process sensory information and improve their social interactions. Additionally, functional neurology can also help children with ADHD improve their attention and focus, which can help them perform better in school and other activities.

The use of functional neurology in the aging population: As we age, the brain and body can experience changes affecting our ability to function. Functional neurology can help older adults improve their cognitive and physical functioning and maintain their independence for longer. For example, older adults may experience age-related changes in vision, such as difficulty reading or adapting to low-light conditions, which can affect their ability to perform daily activities. A functional neurologist can use techniques such as vision therapy to help older adults improve their vision and maintain their independence. Additionally, functional neurology can also help older adults improve their memory and cognitive function, which can help them stay sharp and engaged in activities they enjoy.

Combining functional neurology with other therapies can provide a more comprehensive approach to treating neurological disorders and chronic conditions. More effective and lasting treatment can be achieved by addressing the underlying neurological issues as well as other contributing factors, such as physical, nutritional, and psychological. Here are some examples of how functional neurology can be combined with other therapies:

Chiropractic care: Chiropractors focus on the musculoskeletal system and can help to improve the alignment of the spine and other joints, which can help to reduce pain and improve the functioning of the nervous system. Combining functional neurology and chiropractic care can help address the neurological and physical aspects of a condition, such as headaches, chronic pain, and neck pain, which can help improve the patient’s overall quality of life.

Physical therapy: Physical therapists focus on helping patients improve their movement and mobility and can help to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Combining functional neurology and physical therapy can help address the neurological and physical aspects of a condition, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and spinal cord injury, which can help improve the patient’s overall function and independence.

Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists focus on helping patients improve their ability to perform daily activities, such as dressing, eating, and bathing. Combining functional neurology and occupational therapy can help to address both the neurological and physical aspects of a condition, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease, which can help to improve the patient’s overall function and independence.

Traditional medical care: Functional neurology can be used in conjunction with traditional medical care, such as medication and surgery, to provide a more comprehensive approach to treating neurological disorders and chronic conditions. Combining functional neurology with traditional medical care can help address the underlying neurological issues and any other contributing factors, such as infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions, which can help improve the patient’s overall health and well-being.

 

Conclusions

It is important to note that Functional Neurology is not a substitute for traditional neurology, and should be used in conjunction with traditional medical care. Patients should always consult with their primary care physician before starting any new treatment and should continue to follow any recommendations made by their doctor.

In terms of finding a practitioner, it is important to look for a functional neurologist who is licensed and certified in the field and has experience treating the specific condition or disorder the patient is dealing with. The best way to find a practitioner is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other healthcare professionals or to search online for practitioners in your area.

Functional Neurology is a rapidly growing field that offers a holistic approach to treating neurological disorders and chronic conditions. It uses various techniques to help the brain and body adapt to changes and improve function. It can be particularly beneficial for patients suffering from chronic conditions for a long time or who have not responded to traditional treatments. It is important to find a practitioner who is licensed and certified in the field and has experience treating the specific condition or disorder the patient is dealing with. If you are dealing with a neurological disorder or chronic condition, consider seeking a functional neurologist to see if this approach may be right for you.