Conditions affecting the brain and nervous system have profound impact on how we experience life and how others experience us. Early in life, attention deficit, sensory and learning issues, tics, and social/behavioral issues are increasingly common and increasingly affecting children, parents, and teachers. At the end of life, dementia in its various forms is also increasingly prevalent and affects the final years of many people and their loved ones. In the middle stage of life, traumatic brain injury and degenerative/autoimmune illness including multiple sclerosis are all too common.
Many contributors predispose to neurological conditions. Some are genetic; it’s clear that there are inherited predispositions to these conditions at both the beginning and end of life. But genetics alone is often not determinative of outcome; epigenetic factors – trauma, toxicity from mold and other sources, lyme and other infections, metabolism and its impact on circulatory and immune activity – influence genetic expression and the course of illness.
Sorting out the contribution of these factors is central to integrative medical practice. Dale Bredesen has published several articles and books that propose an approach to Alzheimers Disease based on research identifying factors that affect the deposition of beta amyloid in the brain. Our understanding of how to assess for contributors to this and other neurological conditions is incomplete and evolving.
Similarly, we have much to learn about how to treat these conditions. Importantly, the brain and nervous system are more capable of change and healing than we previously understood them to be. Herbs and supplements that promote new synapses and resulting neuroplasticity can be helpful. Neurofeedback training based on mapping to identify disordered electroencephalographic patterns may also support neuroplasticity. Treatment of infections, improvement in metabolism through diet and exercise, detoxification, sleep and stress management, and IV infusion may also have favorable impact on these conditions.
Our practice seeks to support people with neurological conditions through based on the evolving science in this area.