Kirkland Chiropractic neurology is an emerging subspecialty of chiropractic care that has emerged out of recent advances in brain research. It offers patients with neurological conditions a new hope that has not responded to traditional medication or surgery treatments.
Chiropractic neurologists evaluate for pathologies just like medical doctors do, but with special techniques for diagnosis and treatment that other specialists cannot detect.
Diagnosis
Chiropractic neurologists are specially trained in diagnosing and treating a wide range of neurological disorders, such as those affecting the brain, spinal cord and nerves. These conditions are usually managed non-invasively through medication or surgery or a combination of both methods.
Chiropractic neurologists differ from medical neurologists in that they evaluate patients through physical assessments and advanced diagnostic testing to detect subtle changes in nerve system functioning. The end result of this detailed examination is an accurate diagnosis that allows chiropractors to create a treatment plan to help the patient recover and regain normal functioning.
Functional Neurology (FN) is the specialty of chiropractors trained in childhood developmental disorders, brain injury rehabilitation, neurochemistry, vertigo and ADHD.
Treatment
Chiropractic neurologists provide patients with brain and nervous system disorders a range of treatments that are usually less invasive than prescription medications or surgery.
These treatments are based on research in neurology, neurophysiology, neuropsychology, embryology and cellular biochemistry. A chiropractic neurologist uses these findings to create non-invasive rehabilitation programs that build neuroplasticity and alleviate symptoms.
Functional neurology (FN) is an innovative approach to diagnosing and treating nervous system disorders using sensory-based therapies. It encourages neuroplasticity by tapping into the brain’s capacity for strengthening and forming new connections – just like exercising a muscle!
Finite-Number Therapy (FN) utilizes sensations such as taste, smell, touch, sound, balance and vision to stimulate the nervous system. This helps reorganize and rebuild neural pathways within the brain for improved health benefits.
FN therapy is used to treat neurological conditions like ADHD, autism, anxiety, chronic pain and migraines. Additionally, it aids those who have suffered traumatic injuries to their nervous system such as concussions or strokes.
Continuing Care
Chiropractic neurology, also referred to as functional neurology, is an emerging discipline that’s being utilized to treat various neurological and brain-based conditions. It gained notoriety in the early 2010’s when chiropractor Ted Carrick used it to successfully treat hockey player Sidney Crosby’s nearly career-ending concussion.
Doctors of chiropractic who wish to specialize in functional neurology should look towards the American College of Functional Neurology for training and certification. The program takes three years, leading to examinations that certify them as Diplomates of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (ACFN).
This specialty specializes in rehabilitation the central nervous system and restoring homeostasis. It utilizes hands-on spinal manipulation as well as various therapies to address neurological disorders. For patients who prefer not to take drugs or undergo surgery as a treatment option for their condition, this is an ideal alternative.
Education
Chiropractic neurologists use spinal manual therapy and other non-drug treatments to address neurological disorders. Common conditions they treat include movement disorders, dystonia, post stroke rehabilitation, chronic pain and vertigo.
Chiropractic neurology differs from medical neurology in that it prioritizes treating patients individually based on their physiological function and anatomical structure of the nervous system. This allows chiropractors to recognize and correct imbalances within this intricate network of nerves.
A doctor of chiropractic must earn an undergraduate degree, complete four years at chiropractic college and pass both a state and national board exam to become licensed. This typically involves courses in chemistry, physics and biology as well as classroom work and hands-on clinical experience.