What are the differences among a Chiropractic Functional Neurologist, a Medical Neurologist or Neurosurgeon, and a traditional Chiropractor?
What makes a Chiropractic Functional Neurologist so unique has to do with their approach towards diagnosing and treating patients.
Chiropractic neurologists functionally evaluate and treat a variety of brain and nervous system disorders such as brain fog, chronic pain, vertigo/balance issues, poor memory, ADHD and concussions. Not only do Chiropractic Functional Neurologists use non-invasive, less costly methods, helping patients to experience better function even in the presence of a disease process. Their treatments can produce lasting health benefits.
Medical Neurologists and Neurosurgeons generally evaluate patients to diagnose a pathology or disease. Their treatments can be varied and could include casting, medication/injections or surgery as well as many others.
Traditionally, Chiropractors treat spinal segmental dysfunction which they view as the root cause of spinal nerve stress and thus dysfunction in the body. They are dedicated to the non-surgical and non-drug forms of treatment of disorders of the nervous system and/or musculoskeletal system, using spinal manipulation and to improve function of spinal joints and nerves.
Chiropractic Functional Neurologists may use these traditional chiropractic methods but also have many other tools and methods available to them in the treatment process.
Do you treat children and seniors?
Yes. Children and seniors can benefit greatly from being treated with our natural, holistic and non-drug methods. Whether it’s diagnosing food sensitivities, treating child and adult ADHD, spinal or balance issues, we can help. In fact, the front wall of our office is covered with the faces of the many children Dr. Paul has helped through the years (and who continue to see us into adulthood).
Do you accept health insurance?
For individuals with injuries from auto accidents, we do accept payment directly from auto accident insurers. We are a non-participating health provider with insurance companies. One of our functional laboratories will accept insurance, with modest out-of-pocket costs.
If I order standard medical blood tests through you (i.e., lipid panel, blood chemistry, Vitamin D, urinalysis etc.), will my insurance cover them?
While your insurance will not cover standard blood testing we order, we have found that patients save substantial amounts of money using Principal Labs/LabCorp for their comprehensive blood screens. This is especially true with high deductible and high co-insurance plans.
What methods of payment do you accept?
We gladly accept credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Discover), personal checks, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and cash.
Does your office perform x-rays and imaging?
No. We have an excellent imaging center minutes from our office to complete diagnostic x-rays, MRI/CT and ultrasound imaging. Patients receive a copy of their films on disk, along with printed reports of findings by their radiologists.
Can you treat my special needs child?
Definitely. As one of the only providers in our area using Interactive Metronome, along with other treatment modalities and nutrition, Dr. Paul has helped children with ADHD/ADD, developmental delays, learning challenges and eye movement issues with great success.
Is it wise to get a chiropractic spinal manipulation if I’m pregnant?
According to the American Pregnancy Association, chiropractic care throughout pregnancy can be beneficial, and there are no known contraindications. During pregnancy, there are several physiological and endocrinological changes that occur in preparation for creating the environment for the developing baby. Bodily changes that can create dysfunction in spinal joints and nerve function include protruding abdomen, increased back curve, pelvic changes and postural adaptations. Potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy include: 1) maintaining a healthier pregnancy 2) controlling symptoms of nausea 3) reducing the time of labor and delivery 4) relieving back, neck or joint pain, and 5) preventing a potential cesarean delivery.
Do you prescribe medications?
No. Chiropractors in the U.S. are not licensed to prescribe medications (except New Mexico). The chiropractic profession, and the speciality Functional Neurology, are considered drug-free, nonsurgical sciences rooted in the philosophy that the body and brain can heal naturally with non-invasive treatment modalities. We will refer patients to their primary care physicians if medications are warranted. Frequently, with the help of the patient’s MD, those who are taking drugs for conditions such as insulin resistance, high cholesterol, diabetes and pain may be able to reduce or eliminate them with the assistance of treatment and nutritional therapies.
Why do you only carry pharmaceutical quality nutritional supplements from companies like Xymogen and Apex?
Essentially, not all supplements are alike. The formulas we carry are only available through licensed health professionals after an assessment of a patient’s medical history and unique biological needs. These brands are considered on the leading edge of science, and are researched, formulated and reviewed by reputable Science Advisory Boards. They are often patented. Furthermore, they do not contain allergens like wheat, dairy, corn, egg, soy, or unnecessary fillers. High quality supplements are known to be highly digestible and more bioavailable (absorbed by the body), and meet higher manufacturing standards for purity, authenticity, potency, and safety.
How are functional lab tests different from standard medical tests?
Standard western medicine and testing are disease-oriented, while functional medicine and neurology are wellness-oriented. Typically a physician orders tests to diagnose someone with an already established disease state. Unfortunately, this disease model doesn’t account for patients who test negative for a specific disease or condition, yet they are still experiencing chronic symptoms. Conversely, functional laboratory testing looks at imbalances or dysfunction before they become a disease, and can be extremely helpful in preventing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. We also use these quality labs to test for food sensitivities, toxic chemical exposure, autoimmune and digestive disorders.
I have gone on a special diet and just can’t stick to it.
We understand how challenging it can be to change eating habits—whether it’s to reduce weight, relieve digestive issues, prevent illness, or promote healthy aging. We can coach you to help you stay motivated and overcome obstacles to incorporating your therapeutic nutrition plan into your life.
