Chiropractic Neurology

What is chiropractic neurology?

Chiropractic neurology, also known as functional neurology, is a specialty that branches from the traditional chiropractic methods, which are mainly focused on joint movements. Chiropractic neurology aims to optimize neurological functions by leveraging the concept of neuroplasticity. This innate capability within the nervous system allows compensation for injuries and diseases, adjusting neurological functions to optimize performance in response to environmental demands. In this context, chiropractic neurologists can perform evaluations and offer therapeutic approaches aimed at improving functions that involve body sensations, coordination, and movements.  

Understanding the nervous system

Chiropractic neurologists have an in-depth education of the anatomy and function of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They recognize the importance of the nervous system in regulating bodily functions and aim to optimize its function to promote health and well-being.

Holistic approach

Chiropractic neurology takes a holistic approach to healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of the nervous system with other systems of the body. Chiropractic neurologists may address not only musculoskeletal issues but also neurological conditions such as headaches, dysautonomia, movement disorders, developmental disorders, and functional neurological disorders.

It’s important to note that while Chiropractic neurology shares some similarities with traditional Chiropractic care, it is a distinct and specialized field. Whereas the Chiropractic profession has largely relied on restoring movement within joints of the body such as the spine and arms/legs through chiropractic adjustments, chiropractic neurology focuses more on brain function and trying to optimize functional networks in the brain by performing specific rehabilitation therapies. These therapies may or may not include a chiropractic adjustment, depending on the case.

How can a chiropractic neurologist help someone with vestibular related dizziness?

Chiropractic neurologists offer assessments and holistic interventions for vestibular symptoms that may involve issues in the inner ear/vestibular system or other parts of the nervous system. Here’s how a chiropractic neurologist may help:

Functional evaluation

Chiropractic neurologists perform functional assessments that may include tests of cognition/memory, balance/coordination, eye movements/vision, and body reflexes/movement relevant to the vestibular symptoms. Referral to a medical specialist trained in vestibular medicine for a neurotologic exam and vestibular function testing to establish a medical diagnosis is recommended.

Therapeutic methods

Chiropractic neurologists may develop an individualized therapeutic plan aimed at improving vestibular symptoms that can include a combination of manual therapy, balance training, vestibular rehabilitation exercises, or vision therapy. These rehabilitation exercises are aimed at improving balance and sensory functions pertinent to vestibular symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments and manual therapy help improve musculoskeletal functions that may also contribute to balance or vestibular symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition, a chiropractic neurologist may provide guidance on lifestyle modifications and nutritional strategies for managing vestibular symptoms.  

Chiropractic neurologists may collaborate with other healthcare providers including neurologists, neurotologists, physical or occupational therapists, audiologists, nutritionists, and psychologists to provide comprehensive care for patients with vestibular symptoms. This can involve sharing assessment findings, coordinating care, and making referrals as needed to ensure an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. 

Training and Qualifications

Not all chiropractors are trained to evaluate or treat patients with vestibular symptoms. Chiropractic neurologists enroll in further post-graduate training that the general chiropractor does not. Just as Chiropractic neurology is a subspecialty of Chiropractic (300 hour course), Chiropractic neurology also has subspecialties within it. A Chiropractic neurologist may have certifications in vestibular rehabilitation (150 hour course) or management of patients with TBI/concussion and migraine (150 hour course), which could be pertinent to vestibular symptoms. 

Credentials in chiropractic neurology relevant for managing patients with vestibular symptoms include the Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB), Fellow of the American Board of Vestibular Rehabilitation (FABVR), or Fellow of the American Board of Brain Injury & Rehabilitation (FABBIR), which is the chiropractic specialty focused on concussion/TBI.  

Summary

Chiropractic neurology offers a holistic approach for assessment and therapeutic interventions that may benefit patients with vestibular symptoms. As a niche specialty within chiropractic care, there are few designated chiropractic neurologists who have been trained to provide care for patients with vestibular symptoms. To best find these providers we recommend looking for the certifications of Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB), Fellow of the American Board of Vestibular Rehabilitation (FABVR), or Fellow of the American Board of Brain Injury & Rehabilitation (FABBIR).

Authors: Daniel Demian, DC, DAc, DACNB, David Traster, DC, MS, DACNB, Amir Kheradmand, MD