A neurologically focused chiropractor is a practitioner who uses chiropractic methods to address issues related to the nervous system, focusing on how spinal health impacts brain function and overall neurological well-being. Unlike traditional chiropractic care, which often centers on musculoskeletal alignment, neurologically focused chiropractors emphasize the spine’s role in influencing the nervous system, particularly the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
These chiropractors typically use techniques and assessments to detect and address subluxations (misalignments) or dysfunctions in the spine that may disrupt nerve communication. They believe that by correcting these spinal issues, they can improve nervous system function, which may help with various conditions, such as migraines, chronic pain, ADHD, anxiety, and even digestive issues, depending on the practitioner’s area of focus.
Some neurologically focused chiropractors also employ advanced diagnostic tools, such as thermography, electromyography, or heart rate variability testing, to monitor how the nervous system responds to treatments. They may also work in conjunction with other healthcare providers for a more comprehensive approach to neurological health.
Neurologically focused chiropractors often use specialized scans to assess nervous system function and spinal health. Some of the most common scans include:
- Thermography: Measures temperature variations along the spine, which can indicate inflammation, nerve irritation, or areas of stress. It’s used to detect abnormal thermal patterns, suggesting underlying neurological or vascular issues.
- Electromyography (sEMG): Measures muscle activity along the spine. This scan detects areas where muscles may be over- or underactive, reflecting nerve interference or imbalances.
- Heart Rate Variability (HRV): Monitors the time variation between heartbeats, which reflects the balance between the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) nervous systems. High variability generally indicates good nervous system adaptability, while low variability can suggest chronic stress or poor adaptability.
- Digital X-Rays: Provide a detailed view of spinal alignment, helping chiropractors identify any structural misalignments, degeneration, or abnormalities.
- Functional MRI (fMRI) or qEEG (quantitative electroencephalography)**: Some neurologically focused chiropractors, especially those working closely with neurologists or in specialized practices, may use advanced imaging like fMRI or qEEG to assess brain activity, though these are less common due to high cost and limited availability in typical chiropractic settings.
These scans help practitioners create a more precise treatment plan tailored to the individual’s neurological and spinal needs.
Restoring Balance With Whole Family Care
The goal of whole family care at Pacific North Chiropractic is to ensure and support a family’s health to be the fullest expression of what’s possible. Over time, practice members who get checked regularly see improvement in many areas. These may include an improved immune system, increased brain cognition, higher levels of energy, and an overall better life.
Symptoms may decrease, but life still has stressors that cause subluxation. Generally speaking, chiropractic adds to one’s life; it doesn’t subtract. Living life clear, fully functioning, and connected to the best version of one’s self strengthens family relationships and community ties. Healthy families are happier families.