Chiropractic Neurology is a specialized post-doctoral field focusing on the assessment and rehabilitation of functional issues within the nervous system. Often called functional neurology, this approach combines traditional chiropractic methods with targeted neurological exercises and sensory stimulation. The primary goal is to improve brain function and neuroplasticity by addressing neurological dysfunctions not related to overt structural damage or diagnosed disease. This article examines the legitimacy of the practice, including practitioner training, methods, scientific evidence, and professional standing.
Defining Chiropractic Neurology
A Chiropractic Neurologist is first a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic (DC). To specialize, the DC must complete extensive post-doctoral training, typically 300 or more credit hours of coursework in clinical neurology. This specialized education covers neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropathology, and clinical neurodiagnostics.
Successful completion of this program qualifies the practitioner for examination by the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (ACNB). Board certification grants the title of Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB). This certification is a self-governed specialty credential within the chiropractic profession. It is not a license to practice medicine or a specialty recognized by medical boards.
The focus of a Chiropractic Neurologist differs from that of a general chiropractor, who primarily concentrates on spinal adjustments for musculoskeletal issues. The CN practitioner focuses on identifying subtle imbalances in the nervous system, often described as “functional lesions.” Their scope involves assessing neurological function and prescribing rehabilitation exercises, distinguishing their non-invasive, drug-free approach from the diagnostic and pharmacological focus of a medical neurologist.
Clinical Methods and Applications
Chiropractic Neurologists utilize non-invasive, sensory-based applications designed to stimulate neural pathways. These methods are highly individualized, based on the principle of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections. The application of a stimulus intends to activate a weakened or imbalanced area of the brain to restore optimal function.
Common applications include oculo-motor training, which uses eye-movement exercises to stimulate the brain’s frontal lobe, cerebellum, and brainstem pathways. This is often coupled with vestibular rehabilitation, using head movements, balance board exercises, and visual stimulation to treat dizziness or balance disorders. Other methods include gait training, targeted physical movements, and sensory stimulation using light, sound, or temperature.
CN practitioners claim to address a broad spectrum of neurological and functional conditions, such as:
- Post-concussion syndrome
- Balance and gait disorders
- Vertigo and dizziness
- Certain movement disorders
- Chronic pain syndromes
The underlying theory is that these conditions are caused by functional disconnections rather than overt pathology, making them amenable to targeted neuro-rehabilitation.
Scientific Scrutiny and Empirical Evidence
The legitimacy of Chiropractic Neurology, particularly its core theories, is debated within the scientific and medical communities. Overarching theories, such as the existence of “physiological lesions” correctable through sensory inputs, are not widely accepted or independently validated by medical research. The foundational premise of CN often lacks the empirical support from high-quality, large-scale, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) typical for established medical specialties.
Critical reviews conclude that clinical research specifically labeled as “functional neurology” is sparse and often limited to case studies or studies with methodological limitations. These reviews often find no acceptable evidence demonstrating the benefit of the functional neurology approach as a unique, unified paradigm. This absence of direct, high-level evidence for the full CN model is a primary source of skepticism.
However, the individual therapeutic components used by CN practitioners are less controversial, as many overlap with established physical and occupational therapy methods. Techniques like oculomotor training and vestibular rehabilitation are proven components of neuro-rehabilitation in conventional settings. Studies, including RCTs, have also shown that spinal manipulation can influence central nervous system function and motor control. Proponents argue that evidence exists for these component parts, but it is not indexed under the proprietary name “functional neurology.”
Regulatory Standing and Professional Recognition
Chiropractic Neurology exists as a specialized sub-discipline governed by the same state-level practice acts as general chiropractors. The DACNB credential is a post-graduate certification marking advanced education, not a separate state-sanctioned license to practice neurology. DACNB practitioners are not regulated by the same medical boards that oversee medical neurologists (MDs or DOs).
The American Chiropractic Neurology Board (ACNB) is recognized by the American Chiropractic Association and maintains accreditation from the National Commission for Certification Agencies (NCCA). However, this internal recognition does not translate to specialty status within the conventional medical system. Major medical associations, such as the American Academy of Neurology, do not recognize Chiropractic Neurology as an equivalent medical specialty.
Professional recognition for CN is high within the chiropractic community but remains limited outside of it, particularly among medical specialists. Patients should understand that the DACNB signifies advanced training in a non-pharmacological, non-surgical approach to functional neurological issues. The practice is legally sanctioned under the existing chiropractic scope, but its clinical acceptance by the broader healthcare establishment is not universal.