Integrate neurological experience with chiropractic care

The integration of chiropractic care and mental health represents a pioneering field that encapsulates a holistic understanding of the interplay between physical alignments and brain function. This field augments therapeutic applications and presents a compelling economic case for practice expansion, patient retention and elevated care standards in the chiropractic profession. 

The power of chiropractic and functional medicine advances is they fit perfectly, much like a glove to a hand. With the broad chiropractic curriculum and the critical thinking processes within chiropractic training, advancing the field of medicine falls squarely in the domain of the practicing doctor of chiropractic.   

We know the power of a well-aligned spinal neuropathway, yet we also know what many of us older providers were indoctrinated with, which is the cerebellum is primary for balance, coordination and other primary functions. But as famous commentator Paul Harvey routinely said, stay tuned for “the rest of the story.” We now know the cerebellum contains at minimum 70% of total brain neurons, and training the cerebellum with a series of simple exercises easily integrated into one’s practice can allow patients to “fire their cerebellar-cerebral pathways, that in turn wire together.” Or, put another way, what fires together wires together.  

This type of cerebellar training can be used for the following: 

• ADHD/ADD  
• Select individuals with autism  
• Pursuit of academic excellence  
• Excelling in athletic pursuits 
• Fall prevention for elderly  
• Gait disturbances 
• Post-stroke rehab  
• Age- and stress-related cognitive decline 

Additionally, this cerebellar training approach is not just limited to physical coordination but extends to enhancing cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and executive functions, which are critical in mental health management. Such integrative practices demonstrate the potential of chiropractic care in addressing mental health issues like ADHD, anxiety and depression. 

Scientific basis: Chiropractic care’s impact on mental health

Chiropractic philosophy recognizes the central nervous system’s crucial role in orchestrating bodily functions. Spinal misalignments can obstruct this communication, leading to various health issues, including mental health and cognitive and global neurological disturbances. Current research suggests that chiropractic adjustments can enhance mental health by reducing pain, a significant precursor to stress-related conditions such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, these adjustments can regulate the autonomic nervous system, fostering a state of equilibrium and relaxation. 

Emerging studies also indicate the positive effects of chiropractic care on neurochemical balances within the brain. For instance, it’s been observed that chiropractic adjustments can influence neurotransmitter levels, thereby potentially alleviating symptoms associated with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. 

Chiropractic and brain-body dynamics

As a functional medicine community, we appreciate the spine’s vital role as a nerve conduit for overall health. Chiropractic adjustments not only address back pain but also influence brain function. Studies, including fMRI scans and neurophysiological measures, have documented neurological changes following chiropractic interventions. These adjustments may boost cognitive function, improve sensorimotor integration and increase reflexive response. 

As a naturopathic physician for 31 years and international author and lecturer, I have seen the significant link between spinal health and brain function, proposing  chiropractic care may positively influence neural dynamics and mental health. 

Broadening chiropractic services

No single practitioner group is more qualified than DCs to help patients treat functional neurological deficits and seek augmented central nervous system and peripheral nervous system performance. With that said, there is an easy-to-implement way to expand their services to include brain performance and skills development. Programs like those developed by Edward Hallowell, MD, a leading authority on ADHD and cognitive-emotional well-being, offer cognitive exercises, mindfulness options and emotional intelligence tools that enhance the physical treatments of chiropractic care.  

These programs, which support focus, memory, organization and stress management, can be incorporated into a chiropractic model to offer comprehensive care addressing both spinal health and neuro-cognitive needs. 

ADHD and chiropractic care

ADHD highlights an imbalance in neurological pathways affecting focus and cognitive function. Doctors of chiropractic have reported positive effects of chiropractic care on ADHD symptoms. The precise manipulations aimed at improving nervous system function can complement conventional ADHD therapies, potentially reducing symptoms and enhancing life quality. 

Clinical approach

DCs can prepare their practice for ADHD patients by understanding ADHD as a condition and managing its traits. They employ a drug-free, function-enhancing approach, addressing physical, biochemical and psychological stressors triggering ADHD traits. A chiropractic analysis and neuro-behavioral evaluation lays the groundwork for a comprehensive, non-pharmacological care plan. 

The Hallowell protocol and online program offer structured assessments to identify behavioral patterns and inattention, including cerebellum stimulation to build on neuroplasticity. A chiropractic algorithm is formulated, balancing adjustments, exercises and dietary advice. 

Trauma, stress, PTSD and chiropractic

Trauma and stress can leave profound imprints on the nervous system, frequently manifesting as physical symptoms, including chronic pain and tension. Chiropractic care, with its unique focus on the body’s alignment and neural pathways, offers a powerful tool for recalibrating these disrupted connections. By realigning the spine and alleviating nerve pressure, chiropractic interventions can facilitate recovery and significantly enhance communication between the brain and the body. This approach is integral to a holistic strategy for treating trauma, as it addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of healing. Additionally, the Hallowell online program includes an innovative self-administered Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) module. This therapy, originally developed for PTSD, utilizes eye movements to help process and integrate traumatic memories, thereby contributing to the overall effectiveness of the treatment plan by combining physical alignment with psychological healing techniques. 

Economic considerations

Incorporating brain performance services into chiropractic practice is a savvy business decision. It differentiates a practice in a competitive market and attracts patients seeking a well-rounded approach to health.

Adding cognitive and mental health services can lead to increased utilization and extend the patient care cycle, creating new revenue streams, as such services increasingly receive insurance coverage. 

Community leadership and market differentiation

Chiropractic clinics are increasingly participating in community health programs, demonstrating the benefits of chiropractic care in public health initiatives. Collaborations with medical institutions and engagement in research grants have showcased chiropractic care’s potential in community health. 

Implementing a 90-day care plan

Implementing a comprehensive 90-day care plan presents a prime opportunity for chiropractic practices to offer bundled services, seamlessly integrating regular chiropractic adjustments with cognitive and mental health programs, such as the acclaimed Hallowell online program. This plan begins with thorough initial assessments, all of which are conveniently available within the Hallowell online program, evaluating the patient’s physical, cognitive and emotional well-being. Ongoing monitoring and adaptive strategies are essential to tailor the care plan to the patient’s evolving needs, ensuring a dynamic and responsive treatment approach. 

This integrative strategy not only complements traditional chiropractic methods but also significantly enhances them. By bundling these services, chiropractic practices can provide a robust, multifaceted approach to health, building resilience against mental stress and boosting cognitive function, all while utilizing the comprehensive assessments and tools offered by the Hallowell online program. 

A comprehensive approach

In my clinical practice, I have embraced the Hallowell protocols, which feature a straightforward digital assessment followed by an app-based at-home training program. The scientific and clinical evidence supporting these methods is substantial. By incorporating cerebellar training, we can reduce the load on the cerebral cortex, enabling the mind to function more efficiently. This approach blends brain performance and skills development with chiropractic care and represents an innovative and holistic health trend. 

A key component of this model is the self-administered Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) module, particularly effective for patients dealing with anxiety, stress and trauma. The Hallowell protocols provide an integrated care model that extends beyond the traditional scope of chiropractic services. It encompasses both neurological and spinal health and includes cognitive and emotional health strategies developed by Hallowell. This comprehensive approach not only fosters medical progress and economic growth but also profoundly impacts patient care. 

Final thoughts

Personally, I have found immense benefit in following this program to enhance my mental creativity, productivity and overall performance as an international lecturer, author, physician and peer-to-peer coach. This integrated care model is more than a medical practice; it’s a transformative journey for both the practitioner and the patient.

John McGuire is the president of ExpertRev Enterprises and the driving force behind a consultancy focused on delivering insights and advisory services that enable small businesses and startups to increase operational capabilities, drive growth and improve performance. He has a long history of helping various medical companies and clinics reach their full economic potential. McGuire may be contacted at 904-234-6220 or jmcguire@expertrev.com.

Chris D. Meletis, a naturopathic physician, is an educator, international author and lecturer who has authored 19 books and more than 200 national scientific journal articles. He can be contacted at NaturalMedMan@hotmail.com.