Nervous System Disorders

How do you support people with nervous system disorders at Collective Health Center?

While we all know that every body is built differently and functions in its own unique way, every body’s basic functions are put together and regulated the same way - by our nervous systems. There are two major divisions of the nervous system that you may have heard of before – the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. These two systems are responsible for everything from our five basic senses to the spinal cord and brain functioning. There are so many different disorders of the nervous system that we see in the world today which can stem from trauma, infections, or autoimmune disorders.

In my naturopathic practice I take a whole person, holistic approach that supports my patients unique needs and considers the root causes of their nerve disorder. The types of nervous system disorders that I see most commonly include structural, functional, vascular, and degenerative disorders. Let’s break down these disorders a little further and discuss how a naturopathic approach to these can help those suffering live a healthier, natural life with their disorder.

Structural Disorders of the nervous system involve damage to a nerve. For example, in Bell's palsy, there is swelling and damage to the facial nerve that causes muscular dysfunction of the face such as inability to close the eyelid, blink or smile. Functional disorders are ones that do exactly as it says, cause impairments to our body’s basic functioning. These can cause severe headaches, migraines, and even vertigo. For these conditions, I have seen much success through the use of acupuncture treatments. By activating certain meridians along the body with acupuncture, we are able to help increase blood circulation and decrease inflammation in nerves and thus stimulate the muscles to start functioning again. The same goes for the migraines that are caused by functional disorders, the twisting of the acupuncture needles causes a cascade of positive activity in the body that helps to rebalance our bodies.

For chronic nervous system disorders such as vascular disorders and degenerative disorders, my approach is more centered around the individual’s diet and environment. Particularly with degenerative conditions such as multiple sclerosis, dementia, and even Alzheimer’s disease, addressing any nutrient deficiencies and optimizing nutrition is essential. The food we consume can be a factor in inflammation and thus nervous system dysfunction and we can optimize function by considering what food a person is consuming and how that food is or isn’t working for them. Adequate movement, exercise, and proper sleep are all part of the foundations of healthy living that should be considered and improved. When it comes to the environment that one is in, I have seen amazing progress with patients by simply addressing the environmental toxins around them. Mold is one specific toxin that I have seen cause nervous system issues including headaches, migraines, brain fog and confusion, and muscle weakness. I have also seen heavy metals such as lead and mercury be a factor, particularly in degenerative nerve conditions. The encouraging news is that I often see health improve when these toxin burdens are reduced. 

While there are a number of nervous system disorders, some of which may even go undiagnosed, it is always important to discuss issues you may be experiencing with your physician. If you are experiencing some of these disorders or similar symptoms, please also consider a naturopathic approach to your health – keeping it natural, safe, and working to heal your body as a whole and not just those nervous system disorder symptoms.