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Functional Neurology

What Is Functional Neurology?

Functional Neurology, as defined by the American College of Functional Neurology, is "a health care specialty focused on the assessment, quantification, and rehabilitation (or treatment) of the human nervous system, utilizing sensory and cognitive-based therapies, to promote neurological plasticity, integrity, and functional optimization."

Functional Neurology tests various parts of the brain to see how they interact with each other. In other words, it is the study of the inter-relationships of an individual's neuronal systems within the context of their wider health.

What Functional Neurology Focuses On

Instead of treating a diagnosis, it looks at how well different parts of the nervous system are communicating—brain ↔ nerves ↔ muscles ↔ organs.
The goal is to stimulate under-functioning areas and help the brain reorganize and heal (neuroplasticity).

 

Conditions Functional Neurology Is Commonly Used For:

Balance, Dizziness & Coordination

  • Vertigo

  • Chronic dizziness

  • Balance disorders

  • Motion sensitivity

  • Post-concussion balance issues

  • Inner ear (vestibular) dysfunction

 

Head & Brain-Related Issues

  • Migraines & chronic headaches

  • Post-concussion syndrome

  • Brain fog

  • Memory or concentration problems

  • Light or sound sensitivity

  • Cognitive fatigue

 

Movement & Motor Disorders

  • Tremors

  • Parkinson’s disease (supportive care)

  • Poor coordination

  • Muscle weakness or asymmetry

  • Gait problems

  • Fine motor issues

 

Chronic Pain & Sensory Disorders

  • Neuropathy (numbness, tingling, burning)

  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Chronic neck or back pain with neurological components

  • Sensory processing issues

 

Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction

(When the body’s “automatic” systems are off balance)

  • POTS

  • Dysautonomia

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Temperature regulation problems

  • Heart rate or blood pressure instability

  • Digestive issues tied to nervous system regulation

 

Mood, Focus & Emotional Regulation

(This surprises a lot of people)

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Panic disorders

  • ADHD

  • PTSD (supportive—not a replacement for therapy)

  • Emotional dysregulation

 

Developmental & Learning Challenges (kids & adults)

  • ADHD

  • Autism spectrum support

  • Learning disabilities

  • Sensory integration challenges

  • Delayed motor development

 

What Treatment Might Include

  • Eye movement exercises

  • Balance & vestibular training

  • Specific movement therapies

  • Sensory stimulation (light, sound, vibration)

  • Breathing & vagus nerve work

  • Targeted chiropractic adjustments (not always cracking!)

Everything is customized based on neurological testing.

 

⚠️ Important Reality Check

Functional Neurology:

✅ Can be very effective for certain people

✅ Is not a cure-all

✅ Depends heavily on the skill and training of the practitioner

To make an appointment call Advanced Neuro Center

941-218-4664

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