Neurological healing is no easy task. Nor is it normally a linear, straightforward path. In fact, it’s most commonly quite the opposite, going through multiple stages and phases on its way to optimal healing and outcomes. 

The first challenge parents and patients face when trying to determine whether or not things are moving in the right direction with neurological healing is that the process is the stark contrast opposite of traditional medical treatment. Every single component of the medical system is designed not with healing in mind, but with suppressing, stopping, and shutting things down as the ultimate goal. 

Have an infection? Kill it off with an antibiotic (which literally means anti-life). 

Have a fever? Shut it off with a fever suppressor. 

Have inflammation? Shut it down with steroid-based medications. 

Have hyperactivity and impulsivity? Suppress it with stimulant medications. 

Have anxiety? Cover it up and suppress it with drugs. 

The medical way is one that is supposed to “work” fast and, therefore, be readily apparent. Unfortunately, parents today especially know that what we discussed is very true – the vast majority of the time, drugs and medications are doing nothing to address the actual root cause, create any actual healing, and they also come with a whole host of unwanted side effects. 

So, what other options do we have? Well, if you’re reading this, then it’s likely that you’ve already begun to take the root cause of yours or your child’s challenges head on with neurologically-focused chiropractic care, or you’re strongly considering it and wondering exactly how that process works. 

To make this super simple to understand, we’ll be breaking things down into three parts. First, the healing phases we’ll discuss are: 

1. Release Phase 
2. Rebuild + Reorganize Phase
3. Restoration Phase

Phase 1 – Release 

The first phase of neurological healing + restoration is often the bumpiest. The longer you have been subluxated and stuck in sympathetic dominance (dysautonomia), the deeper those stress patterns and dysfunctions set in. The body is doing all it can to adapt, but in the toughest of cases (Perfect Storm + Neuro Intensive ones especially), we generally find that the nervous system is just flat out worn out and exhausted. 

Therefore, when you release those deep subluxation patterns in the first two (2) weeks to two (2) months of care, oftentimes, patients will experience some form of “neuro detox” where certain signs and symptoms may get a bit worse. 

This is really no different than what happens when you get a fever, diarrhea, or traditional immune response – the body is actually getting “sick” to get well again. 

So, in the vast majority of these neurological detoxes that occur way early in care, it’s actually a “good” sign that healing is happening. We’re getting the nervous system unstuck from the long-standing stuck, stressed, and exhausted subluxation patterns it’s been in. 

Phase 2 – Rebuild + Reorganize 

This is an exciting phase of care, and it’s really rooted in the science of something called neuroplasticity. Which honestly is what all of neurologically-focused chiropractic care is based upon. 

Neuroplasticity, also known as neural plasticity or brain plasticity, is the ability of neural networks in the brain to change through growth and reorganization. It is when the brain is rewired to function in some way that differs from how it previously functioned.

Subluxation, dysautonomia, and the “Perfect Storm” are all what stop neuroplasticity, growth, and optimal development dead in its tracks and throw things off course. Therefore, when we hit this stage of care, and we start to see growth and reorganization happening again and a child getting back on track with their milestones and development – oh man, is it exciting! 

What does rebuilding + reorganization look like practically? Check out the following list to spot the signs of this stage in progress: 

• INSiGHT Scans shifting, changing, calming, clearing, and reorganizing
  • Oftentimes this can be tracked with our “neurometrics” and scores 
• Improved Neuro-Postural Patterns 
  • No more head tilt + rotation, shoulders relaxed and level, etc. 
• Improved Neuromuscular Tone + Coordination
  • Observed through movement, gait analysis, etc. 
• Improved Neurological “Soft Signs” 
  • Sleeping better, eating better, improved digestion, better immune health, improvements in posture and coordination, etc. 
• Improved Focus + Endurance in School, Therapy, etc. 
  • Being able to do more during therapy appointments and school 
• Less Severe Subluxation Patterns and Adjusting Restrictions 
  • When things shift, move, and get easier to adjust

By no means does a child or patient need to experience everything on that list to be in this phase of neurological healing, as healing is unique to each individual. However, even observing and having just a couple of them means things are progressing and on the right track to optimal healing and neurological restoration! 

Phase 3 – Restoration 

This phase of care is the ultimate goal of our initial care plans, but honestly, it’s just the beginning of the best part – the child or patient is now experiencing a high quality of LIFE once again! 

We feel strongly that we are designed to be strong, healthy, resilient, and happy, and therefore live a high quality of life as a result! This stage of care is when kids and patients really have had transformative changes with their health and day-to-day experience a quality of life far greater than what they had prior to starting chiropractic care. 

This stage then sets the stage for wellness, but the work is not all the way done. In this stage, we want to stay on the job of neurological healing and continue to deploy neuroplastic healing principles in order to put “slack” and “stability” in the system. 

This third state of neurological healing is essential for one reason – life goes on. Meaning kids are still going to have growth spurts, falls and injuries, colds and sickness to get through, social and emotional challenges, school, sports, seasonal changes, and so much more they still need to stay ahead of and adapt to. Adults are right there with them with work stressors, seasonal allergies, social engagements, and other physical stressors.

By completing this final stage of the neurological restoration care plan, we can then transition into lifetime wellness care with a strong, resilient, and more stable nervous system. A more stable nervous system can better withstand various regular life stressors and stay healthy and strong through them! 

That is the ultimate goal we have for our patients – to not just get healthy for a season, but stay there for good! To do that, this third phase and achieving restoration is essential. 

Diving Deeper into Neurological “Soft Signs” of Healing 

While every single one of us, from the parent team to the provider team, wants to see massive changes and achievement of the big goals happen right away… science and clinical experience let us know that, typically, that is not the case. 

So often, and so rightfully so, some of the most common examples parents have for BIG goals for their children’s care include things like starting to walk or talk, eliminating seizures or autism spectrum related challenges, improving focus and behavior, lessening anxiety and depression, and so forth. For the purpose of this article, we’ll refer to these functions as “brain-based” or “higher level” functions. 

In contrast, more primary and basic neurophysiological functions that are essential to health are things like eating, sleeping, digestion (pooping), motor planning, respiratory + immune health, and so forth. These core health functions could also be called more primal or foundational components of health, and what many parents and providers don’t know is it’s these things that get offline and off track first, which then leads to the bigger “brain based” problems down the road as neurological function and development is compromised. 

Therefore, on the road to optimal neurological healing, we often need to see changes with these “soft signs” (and scans), and the more basic physiological functions first. 

• When a teen intensive patient struggling with anxiety, epilepsy, and exhaustion starts to finally fall asleep easier and stay asleep longer, we know we’re on the right track! 
• When a three (3) year old patient recently diagnosed with autism and apraxia (nonverbal) begins experiencing better digestion, immune health, and gross motor planning, we know we’re on the road to recovery + restoration! 
• When a grade schooler struggling with ADHD and behavioral regulation challenges has more relaxed shoulders, less tension, and gets adjusted easier, we know we’re making the right changes happen to their nervous system! 

So often for parents, not seeing the big changes happen instantly with chiropractic care can be frustrating and, if we’re being honest, even disheartening. But when we can point out these incredibly important changes on their INSiGHT Scans and with their neurological “soft signs,” we can rebuild that hope and let you know we’re heading in the right direction! 

If you have any questions at all about what phase of care your child is in (or yourself), do not hesitate to ask and really dig in with your doctor at the next visit. We love talking through this stuff with our patients, and always do our best to stay ahead of it, making sure you know what to look for and what to track as care progresses through each and every phase of care! 

Does this sound familiar? Your child suddenly covers their ears in a noisy restaurant, has an unexpected meltdown at the grocery store, or becomes distressed by the tags in their clothing. As a parent, these moments can feel overwhelming and isolating. You might have been told that these are just behavioral issues or that your child will “grow out of it.” But what if we told you there’s something deeper happening in your child’s nervous system?

The Reality of Sensory Processing Challenges

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced the heartache of watching your child struggle with sensory overload. You’re not alone. Recent studies from the CDC indicate that up to 40% of school-aged children today experience at least one chronic health condition, with sensory processing issues becoming increasingly common.

Understanding Overstimulation: More Than Just Behavior

What’s actually happening when your child becomes overwhelmed? Think of it like a traffic jam in your child’s nervous system. Their brain is receiving more sensory input than it can effectively process at once. This isn’t just about behavior – it’s about how your child’s brain and nervous system are functioning.

The Autonomic Nervous System: Your Child’s Control Center

Your child’s nervous system has two key branches:

• The Sympathetic System (often called “fight or flight”)
• The Parasympathetic System (known as “rest and digest”)

When your child’s system becomes overwhelmed, they can get stuck in sympathetic dominance – their body’s alert system stays switched “on.” This creates a cascade of effects that you might recognize:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Digestive issues
• Emotional dysregulation
• Increased sensitivity to sensory input

The “Perfect Storm”: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Challenges

Sensory processing challenges often develop from what we call a “Perfect Storm” of factors:

1. Prenatal Influences: Stress during pregnancy can impact how a developing brain processes sensory information
2. Birth Experiences: Interventions like C-sections, forceps, or vacuum extractions can create physical stress on the developing nervous system
3. Early Childhood Factors: Environmental stressors and developmental challenges can further impact nervous system development

Recognizing When Your Child is Overstimulated

As a parent, you might notice these signs when your child is experiencing sensory overload:

Physical Signs

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Unusual fatigue

Emotional Signs

• Increased irritability
• Rising anxiety levels
• Sudden emotional outbursts

Behavioral Signs

• Difficulty focusing
• Frequent meltdowns
• Actively seeking quiet spaces

A Different Approach to Help

While traditional approaches often focus on avoiding triggers or managing symptoms, there’s another way to support your child. Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care looks at the root cause of these challenges, not just the symptoms.

At Rochester Chiropractic and Wellness, we use cutting-edge technology called INSiGHT Scans, which can help us identify exactly where your child’s nervous system needs support. These non-invasive scans can be done while your child sits comfortably – even in your lap – and provide valuable information about how their sensory system is adapting to the world around them. Then precise, gentle adjustments release stuck sympathetic stress and activate the parasympathetic system for better regulation, getting to the real root cause! 

Moving Forward

Remember, your child isn’t choosing to be overwhelmed – their nervous system is genuinely struggling to process the world around them. The good news is that with proper support and understanding, there are ways to help your child’s nervous system find better balance and regulation.

Most importantly, know that you’re not alone in this journey. Many families are navigating similar challenges, and there is hope that your child can experience the world around them without being overwhelmed by it. We want to help!

Your child’s sensitivity isn’t a flaw – it’s part of who they are. With the right support and understanding, you can help them develop the tools they need to navigate their sensory experiences more comfortably and confidently.

As a parent, watching your teen struggle with unexplained dizziness, fatigue, frequent fainting, and near constant anxiety can be both terrifying and frustrating. Every time they stand up or shift positions, you hold your breath, wondering if they’ll feel faint or need to sit back down.  If your child has been diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), you’re likely searching for answers about what’s really causing these challenging symptoms.

POTS affects approximately 1 in 100 teenagers, with girls being 2-3 times more likely to develop the condition. While you may have been told that genetics are to blame, or received no clear explanation at all, there’s more to the story that every parent needs to understand.

Looking Beyond Genetics: Understanding the Root Cause

The key to understanding POTS lies in understanding how your child’s nervous system functions. While genetic factors may play a role, the primary trigger for POTS symptoms is often related to nervous system dysfunction and dysregulation. Particularly within the autonomic nervous system.

The Vagus Nerve Connection

At the heart of this condition is the vagus nerve – a crucial component of your child’s autonomic nervous system that:

• Controls heart rate and blood pressure
• Regulates breathing patterns
• Maintains overall body balance
• Influences focus and concentration

Today’s teenagers are living in perhaps the most stressful era and toxic times we’ve ever seen. This constant stress bombards our children’s nervous system and leaves it stuck in a state of sympathetic fight-or-flight stress mode, which leads to vagus nerve dysfunction.

Understanding Dysautonomia

Chronic subluxation and nervous system dysregulation can lead to a condition called dysautonomia. An imbalance in the autonomic nervous system where:

• The “fight or flight” response becomes overactive
• The calming, regulatory functions become suppressed
• Multiple body systems are affected simultaneously

Why Traditional Medical Tests May Miss the Root Cause

Many parents become, understandably, frustrated when standard medical tests fail to provide answers. Traditional tests usually don’t measure nervous system regulation.  The focus is typically on individual symptoms rather than underlying systemic dysfunction. Subtle neurological imbalances can be difficult to detect with standard testing.

Hope Through Understanding: What Parents Can Do

Understanding that POTS is primarily a nervous system condition opens up new avenues for support and treatment. Modern diagnostic approaches can now:

• Measure nervous system regulation
• Track heart rate variability
• Identify specific areas of neurological interference
• Monitor improvements over time

Taking Action: Next Steps for Parents

1. Recognize the Signs: Watch for patterns in your child’s symptoms, particularly when changing positions or during periods of stress.
2. Consider a Comprehensive Evaluation: Look for healthcare providers who understand the neurological aspects of POTS and use advanced diagnostic tools to measure nervous system function.
3. Address Physical Tension: Pay attention to signs of stress and tension in your child’s upper neck, lower neck, shoulders, and mid-back.
4. Support Overall Nervous System Health: Work with healthcare providers who can help address the underlying nervous system dysfunction rather than just managing symptoms.

The Path Forward

At RCW, we use advanced technology tools like our INSiGHT Scans to identify specific areas of neurological interference that may be contributing to your child’s symptoms. Our scans can actually measure and find dysregulation, especially our NeuroThermal and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) tests. This provides concrete evidence of autonomic nervous system function and tracking improvement over time.

While POTS can be challenging, understanding its true nature as a nervous system condition provides hope and direction. With proper support and care focused on nervous system regulation, many teens see significant improvements in their symptoms and quality of life.

Remember: You’re not alone in this journey. Many families are navigating similar challenges, and with the right understanding and support, your child can work toward better health and well-being.