What is Functional Neurology?

What is Functional Neurology?

Functional neurology has been practiced for generations of what is believed to be the final frontier in science of the most complicated biological system. In the past decade there has been significant momentum and acceptance that brain optimization training is a powerful treatment option for disorders of the nervous system. Functional neurology spans multiple fields of specialties of chiropractic, psychology, conventional medicine, optometry, audiology, acupuncture, botanicals, clinical nutrition, orthomolecular medicine and physical therapy.

Functional Neurology vs Conventional Medical Neurology

Patients often ask what is the difference between medical neurology and functional neurology. Standard medical neurology looks at the “black and white” of neurological disease (tumors, strokes, brain bleed, etc) with emphasis on structural pathology and uses pharmaceutical and surgical intervention to treat disease. You are either ‘fine’ or you’re facing major neurological presentation (dizziness, concussion, confusion, severe headaches, etc).

Functional Neurology focuses on the gray side of neurology with more attention on conditions such as concussion syndrome, dizziness, ADHD and many others. Functional neurology views the nervous system can be can be shaped, and molded through environmental stimulation.

Foundation of Neuroplasticity and Brain Health Optimization

• Creating a healthy daily lifestyle for the best neurological efficiency
• Providing specific nutrition and supplements for the brain and body
• Addressing gut-brain relationship to modulate inflammation and enhance nutrient absorption efficiency
• Optimizing and maintaining the neuro-endocrine system

How is Functional Neurology Applied?

Functional neurology is a field that builds on clinical neuroscience and uses a wide variety of procedures and therapies to help improve or re-establish optimal neurological efficiency. By understanding the specific pathways of the brain can we provide specific and deliberate care that aims to improve neurological function and structure. We combine visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, auditory, movement-based, and cognitive activities to promote neuroplasticity and well-being.

The 4 Step Process of Functional Neurology approach

1. Identifying the location in the nervous system and/or body is the dysfunction.
2. What is the best treatment approach to activate that area?
3. What is the condition of that area to avoid over-stimulation?
4. Quantifying the appropriate amount of stimulation to apply to that area

This area is a constant research focused approach to utilize therapeutic tools to create positive neuroplastic changes in the brain. We approach your care by identifying root cause of the symptoms and apply a precise, conservative and individualized therapies specific with evidence-based research in the evaluation and diagnosis. Every brain is different and may require different neuron receptor-based approach for the best successful outcome.

Who Benefits from Functional Neurology?

Every brain deserves an evaluation from a functional neurology minded clinician. Whether you are facing age-related memory loss, inability to focus and concentrate, or looking to enhance your current academic or athletic performance. OCNM’s goal is to increase your independence, autonomy and overall health with our patient focused experience.

If you are looking for a naturopathic approach with a functional neurology mindset in Ottawa, or if you want to learn more about functional neurology, please call OCNM today.