Question 1

What is functional neurology?

Accepted Answer

Functional neurology is a brain-based approach to healthcare that uses targeted neurological exercises, sensory stimulation, and rehabilitation techniques to improve brain function. Unlike traditional neurology which focuses on diagnosing disease, functional neurology identifies areas of the brain that are underperforming and uses specific therapies to strengthen neural pathways, treating conditions like concussion, vertigo, POTS, and chronic pain without drugs or surgery.

Question 2

What does a functional neurologist do?

Accepted Answer

A functional neurologist performs comprehensive neurological examinations to identify which areas of the brain and nervous system are not functioning optimally. They then design personalized treatment programs using targeted exercises, vestibular rehabilitation, vision therapy, and other brain-based therapies to improve neural function. Functional neurologists treat the root cause of symptoms rather than just masking them with medications.

Question 3

How is functional neurology different from traditional neurology?

Accepted Answer

Traditional neurology focuses on diagnosing neurological diseases using imaging and tests, often treating symptoms with medications or surgery. Functional neurology takes a rehabilitative approach, using the brain's neuroplasticity to improve function through targeted exercises and therapies. While traditional neurologists may say 'your MRI is normal,' functional neurologists can often identify subtle dysfunctions that explain persistent symptoms and provide treatment options.

Question 4

What conditions does functional neurology treat?

Accepted Answer

Functional neurology treats a wide range of conditions including post-concussion syndrome, traumatic brain injury, chronic dizziness and vertigo, POTS and dysautonomia, migraines and headaches, balance disorders, movement disorders, cognitive difficulties, anxiety related to vestibular dysfunction, and chronic pain. It is particularly effective for patients who haven't found relief through conventional treatments.

Question 5

Is functional neurology evidence-based?

Accepted Answer

Yes, functional neurology is grounded in neuroscience research on neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Many techniques used in functional neurology, such as vestibular rehabilitation, vision therapy, and specific motor exercises, have substantial research support. Functional neurologists apply these evidence-based principles to create individualized treatment protocols.

Question 6

What is post-concussion syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a complex condition where symptoms persist for weeks, months, or even years after a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and sensitivity to light and noise. Functional neurology offers effective treatment by addressing the underlying brain dysfunction causing these persistent symptoms.

Question 7

How long does concussion recovery take?

Accepted Answer

Most people recover from a concussion within 7-10 days, but 10-30% experience symptoms lasting months or longer (post-concussion syndrome). Recovery time depends on factors including injury severity, previous concussions, and individual brain health. With proper functional neurology treatment, many patients with persistent symptoms see significant improvement within 12-20 sessions over several weeks.

Question 8

What are the symptoms of a mild traumatic brain injury?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) include headaches, dizziness, nausea, balance problems, blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light and noise, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood changes, anxiety, and irritability. Symptoms may appear immediately or develop over days following the injury.

Question 9

Can you fully recover from a concussion?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most people fully recover from concussions, especially with proper treatment. The brain has remarkable neuroplasticity and can heal and reorganize neural pathways. Functional neurology accelerates recovery by identifying specific areas of brain dysfunction and providing targeted rehabilitation to restore optimal function. Even patients with long-standing post-concussion syndrome can experience significant improvement.

Question 10

When should I see a specialist after a head injury?

Accepted Answer

You should see a specialist if symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks, worsen over time, or significantly impact daily activities. Seek immediate emergency care for severe headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, confusion, slurred speech, or loss of consciousness. A functional neurologist can help if you're experiencing ongoing dizziness, cognitive difficulties, visual problems, or fatigue that haven't resolved with rest.

Question 11

What is POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)?

Accepted Answer

POTS is a form of dysautonomia where the autonomic nervous system doesn't properly regulate blood flow when changing positions. When standing, heart rate increases excessively (typically 30+ beats per minute) without a corresponding drop in blood pressure. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness, fainting, fatigue, brain fog, exercise intolerance, and nausea. POTS often affects young women and can develop after viral illness, concussion, or surgery.

Question 12

What causes POTS?

Accepted Answer

POTS can be triggered by viral infections (including COVID-19), concussions, surgery, pregnancy, or develop without clear cause. Underlying mechanisms include autonomic nervous system dysfunction, abnormal blood vessel function, low blood volume, autoimmune factors, or deconditioning. Many cases involve dysfunction in the brainstem and vagus nerve, which functional neurology specifically addresses through targeted rehabilitation.

Question 13

Can POTS be cured?

Accepted Answer

While there's no single cure for POTS, many patients achieve significant symptom improvement or complete remission with proper treatment. Functional neurology addresses POTS by rehabilitating the autonomic nervous system through brain-based exercises, vagus nerve therapy, and vestibular rehabilitation. Many patients, especially those with post-viral or post-concussion POTS, can return to normal activities with comprehensive treatment.

Question 14

What treatments help POTS symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Effective POTS treatments include functional neurology rehabilitation targeting brainstem and autonomic function, vagus nerve stimulation, graduated exercise programs, vestibular therapy, increased salt and fluid intake, compression garments, and in some cases medication. Functional neurology offers a comprehensive approach by addressing the underlying nervous system dysfunction rather than just managing symptoms.

Question 15

Is POTS related to anxiety?

Accepted Answer

POTS is often misdiagnosed as anxiety because symptoms overlap (racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness). However, POTS is a physiological condition of the autonomic nervous system, not a psychiatric disorder. The physical symptoms of POTS can cause secondary anxiety. Proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying autonomic dysfunction typically reduces anxiety symptoms significantly.

Question 16

What causes chronic vertigo?

Accepted Answer

Chronic vertigo can be caused by vestibular disorders (BPPV, vestibular neuritis, Meniere's disease), concussion or head injury, migraines (vestibular migraine), central nervous system dysfunction, cervical spine problems, or age-related vestibular decline. Persistent vertigo often indicates the brain hasn't properly compensated for vestibular damage, which functional neurology addresses through targeted vestibular rehabilitation.

Question 17

What is vestibular rehabilitation?

Accepted Answer

Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of therapy designed to reduce vertigo, dizziness, and balance problems by retraining the brain to process vestibular information properly. It includes gaze stabilization exercises, balance training, habituation exercises, and functional activities. Functional neurologists combine vestibular rehabilitation with other brain-based therapies for comprehensive treatment of dizziness and balance disorders.

Question 18

How do you treat BPPV?

Accepted Answer

BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) is treated with specific repositioning maneuvers like the Epley maneuver, Semont maneuver, or BBQ roll, which move displaced calcium crystals out of the semicircular canals. These maneuvers are highly effective, resolving BPPV in 1-3 treatments for most patients. Functional neurologists also address any residual dizziness and ensure proper vestibular compensation after the crystals are repositioned.

Question 19

Can vertigo be cured permanently?

Accepted Answer

Many types of vertigo can be permanently resolved with proper treatment. BPPV is often cured with repositioning maneuvers. Chronic vertigo from other causes can be significantly improved or eliminated through vestibular rehabilitation by retraining the brain to compensate properly. Functional neurology's comprehensive approach addresses not just the vestibular system but all factors contributing to dizziness for lasting relief.

Question 20

Why does dizziness persist after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Persistent dizziness after initial treatment often indicates incomplete central compensation, meaning the brain hasn't fully adapted to vestibular changes. This can occur due to concurrent conditions (anxiety, migraine, neck problems), inadequate initial treatment, or pre-existing brain function issues. Functional neurology addresses persistent dizziness by identifying all contributing factors and providing comprehensive brain-based rehabilitation.

Question 21

What is sciatica?

Accepted Answer

Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It typically affects one side and is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, usually from a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis. Symptoms include sharp pain, burning, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot.

Question 22

What causes a herniated disc?

Accepted Answer

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior. Causes include age-related disc degeneration, improper lifting, repetitive strain, trauma, excess weight, and genetic predisposition. Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine) and can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness.

Question 23

What is spinal decompression therapy?

Accepted Answer

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses a specialized table to gently stretch the spine, creating negative pressure within the discs. This negative pressure can help retract herniated or bulging disc material, increase nutrient flow to the disc, and reduce pressure on spinal nerves. It's an effective treatment for herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis.

Question 24

Can a herniated disc heal without surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most herniated discs heal without surgery. Studies show that 80-90% of patients with herniated discs improve with conservative treatment. Non-surgical spinal decompression, combined with targeted exercises and functional neurology care, can effectively reduce disc herniation and relieve nerve compression. Surgery is typically only needed when conservative treatment fails or there are severe neurological symptoms.

Question 25

How long does spinal decompression take to work?

Accepted Answer

Most patients begin experiencing relief within the first few sessions of spinal decompression therapy, though optimal results typically require 20-28 sessions over 6-8 weeks. The treatment works cumulatively, with each session building on the previous one. Factors affecting timeline include severity of the condition, overall health, and compliance with the treatment plan including home exercises.

Question 26

What is chiropractic neurology?

Accepted Answer

Chiropractic neurology is a specialty that combines chiropractic care with advanced understanding of the nervous system. Chiropractic neurologists use brain-based rehabilitation techniques, vestibular therapy, and neurological exercises alongside traditional chiropractic adjustments. This approach treats the nervous system as a whole, addressing not just spinal mechanics but also brain function and neural pathway optimization.

Question 27

How is a chiropractor different from a chiropractic neurologist?

Accepted Answer

A traditional chiropractor focuses primarily on spinal alignment and joint function. A chiropractic neurologist has additional training in functional neurology and treats conditions by understanding how the brain and nervous system control the body. Chiropractic neurologists can address complex neurological conditions like concussion, vertigo, POTS, and cognitive difficulties using brain-based rehabilitation techniques beyond standard chiropractic care.

Question 28

Is chiropractic safe for neurological conditions?

Accepted Answer

When performed by trained professionals, chiropractic care is safe for most neurological conditions. Chiropractic neurologists are specifically trained to evaluate neurological patients and modify treatments appropriately. They use gentle techniques and brain-based therapies that work with the nervous system. Comprehensive neurological examination before treatment ensures appropriate care for each patient's specific condition.

Question 29

What is vagus nerve therapy?

Accepted Answer

Vagus nerve therapy involves techniques to stimulate the vagus nerve, which controls the parasympathetic nervous system and influences heart rate, digestion, mood, and inflammation. Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation can help regulate autonomic function in conditions like POTS, anxiety, inflammation, and digestive disorders. Functional neurologists use specific exercises, breathing techniques, and devices to improve vagus nerve function.

Question 30

What are the benefits of low-level laser therapy?

Accepted Answer

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular healing and reduce inflammation. Benefits include accelerated tissue repair, reduced pain and inflammation, improved nerve function, enhanced circulation, and faster recovery from injuries. It's used to treat musculoskeletal conditions, neuropathy, wound healing, and as part of comprehensive neurological rehabilitation programs.

Chiropractic Care in San Diego

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Related Conditions

Back Pain

Sciatica

Herniated Disc

Treatments That May Help

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression

Low-Level Laser Therapy

Fascial Mobilization

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