What is Chiropractic Neurology?

Chiropractic Neurologyis a form of functional neurology that evaluates the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves) and its function. A chiropractic neurologistexamines both sensory input and motor output. He/she will observe balance, coordination, muscle strength, autonomic response, and eye position and movement; just as a medical neurologist would. Despite conducting a similar examination, the two types of doctors will interpret their findings differently. A chiropractic neurologist tends to watch for more subtle changes as a guide to how specific areas within the brain are functioning.

Despite similar examinations, the mode of treatment is the biggest difference between a chiropractic and a medical neurologist. A medical neurologist typically treats through medication, a chiropractic neurologist treats through exercises and specific adjustments. The exercises are brain-based, targeting the area of the brain that is showing diminished function. The advantage of a brain-based exercise is the ability to activate the targeted areas of imbalance, whereas medications tend to be less specific in their effect. In some cases co-management is necessary; a chiropractic neurologist will refer out as needed.

There are many conditions that can benefit from this kind of treatment including:

• Childhood learning disorders including: ADD/ADHD, Autism, Aspergers, Tourettes/tics, OCD, Dyslexia, visual and auditory processing disorders, and sensory processing disorder.
• Traumatic Brain Injury/ post concussion syndrome
• Vertigo and balance disorders
• Pain
• Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS/RSD)
• Migraines and headaches
• Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons disorders
• Autoimmune disorders
• Post-stroke rehabilitation