Understanding Functional Chiropractic Neurology: A Comprehensive Guide
Functional Chiropractic Neurology (FCN) is an emerging field within chiropractic care that focuses on evaluating and improving the function of the nervous system without surgery or drugs. Unlike traditional chiropractic, which often emphasizes spinal adjustments for spinal alignment, FCN uses advanced neurological assessment and rehabilitation strategies to help patients with sensory neurologic imbalances. These sensory neurologic imbalances cause dysfunction of the postural muscle tone, leading to pain.
What Is FCN?
FCN is based on the principle that the nervous system controls and coordinates every function in the body. Practitioners, often called chiropractic neurologists or functional neurologists, use specialized tests and therapies to identify areas of neurological dysfunction within the spine and design targeted spinal manipulations to restore balance and improve function.
This approach blends the hands-on techniques of chiropractic care with the latest research in neuroscience and functional neurology, making it particularly beneficial for patients with conditions that involve both the nervous and musculoskeletal systems.
How Functional Neurology Works
A FCN appointment often includes:
- Comprehensive neurological examination – Assessing balance, reflexes, eye movements, coordination, and sensory processing.
- Functional tests – Identifying asymmetries or weaknesses in brain and nerve function.
- Targeted therapy – Customized exercises, adjustments, or sensory stimulation to activate specific parts of the nervous system.
- Progress tracking – Monitoring neurological changes over time to ensure lasting improvements.
Rather than applying the same adjustment techniques to all patients, functional chiropractic neurology is individualized—each plan is tailored to the patient’s unique neurological needs.
Conditions That May Benefit from Chiropractic Neurology
While not a cure-all, FCN has been applied in managing:
- Concussion and post-concussion syndrome
- Dizziness and balance disorders (vestibular conditions)
- Migraines and chronic headaches
- Movement disorders
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Neurological symptoms after stroke or injury
- Developmental conditions in children, such as certain learning or coordination disorders
The Science Behind Chiropractic Neurology
This approach is grounded in neuroplasticity—the brain and nervous system’s ability to adapt and change. By providing targeted stimulation and rehabilitation, practitioners aim to “rewire” neural pathways, improve brain-body communication, and restore normal function.
FCN differs from traditional neurology in that it focuses on rehabilitation and optimization rather than solely diagnosing disease or prescribing medication.
Is This New Chiropractic Method Evidence-Based?
Research in functional neurology is growing, and while high-quality clinical trials are still limited, there is evidence supporting its use in areas such as vestibular rehabilitation, concussion recovery, and chronic pain management. Many patients report improved function, reduced symptoms, and better quality of life when receiving care from functional chiropractic neurology.
Make your first appointment today and experience advanced Chiropractic Care in Franklin, TN.