When a patient experiences an injury, infection, or condition that impacts cognitive function, the mental and emotional symptoms such as inattention, depression, irritability, and anxiety can often be just as challenging as the physical symptoms.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment for these conditions, and often scans may not show abnormalities even though patients are experiencing symptoms that disrupt routines, activities, and quality of life. Fortunately, functional neurology specializes in examining each individual’s unique cognitive responses to provide personalized treatment for these symptoms. Here are some neurological conditions that can manifest with emotional symptoms and how functional neurology treatments such as improving brain function, stimulating neuroplasticity, and optimizing neural pathways can help. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) TBI, which can be caused by a single event, or by a gradually worsening condition, can lead to cognitive and emotional changes including depression, anxiety, mood swings, and a perceived lack of empathy that can cause someone struggling with the condition to seem like a completely different person. Functional neurology may involve exercises, therapies, and lifestyle modifications as well as non-invasive therapies like the Alpha-Stim, which stimulates nerve cells in order to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, headaches, and migraines. Concussion/Post-Concussion Syndrome The inflammation caused by a concussion can result in anxiety, mood swings, personality changes, and difficulty concentrating. Functional neurology may use vestibular rehabilitation, vision therapy, and neurofeedback to address these issues. Therapies like photobiomodulation target specific networks in the brain to stimulate healing, improve circulation, and reduce swelling and inflammation. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) ADHD is characterized by inattention and hyperactivity. Even physical functions like coordination and balance can also be affected. Functional neurologists might use neurofeedback, sensory integration, and other cognitive training techniques to improve focus and attention. When a hormone imbalance or nutritional deficiency might be worsening cognitive function, treatment plans can also include dietary changes or supplements. Long Haul COVID-19 Syndrome Anxiety, memory loss, and brain fog are symptoms of not only long-haul COVID-19 syndrome but can also occur as a result of the inflammation caused by the common cold and flu viruses. Oculomotor rehabilitation, vestibular therapy, vagus nerve reset, and other functional medicine treatments can promote neuroplasticity that reduces inflammation and helps the brain heal after an infection. Stroke A stroke can result in cognitive and emotional changes such as irritability, forgetfulness, carelessness, or confusion. Functional neurology could involve rehabilitation techniques to help retrain the brain, recover lost function, and pinpoint and stimulate areas of the brain in need of treatment. Functional neurology uses a patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach to assess and treat an array of conditions. We may employ techniques like neurofeedback, vestibular rehabilitation, vision therapy, nutrition, and physical exercises to stimulate neuroplasticity, optimize brain function, and improve the patient's overall well-being. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who specializes in functional neurology to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific neurological condition and unique needs. Schedule a free 10-minute consultation with one of the skilled and compassionate providers at Neurohealth Services to find out what treatment options are available for you: (317) 848-6000 |
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