When you think chiropractic, you probably think back pain—not brain healing.
But what if the path to recovering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), post–concussion syndrome, or chronic migraines could be paved with a fresh understanding of how the spine and nervous system interact?
That’s exactly the kind of cutting-edge insight explored in the latest episode of Mind Matters with Legal Nurse Consultant Kiley Como at Shane Smith Law and returning guest Dr. Eric Reis, a board-certified functional neurologist, brain injury specialist, and chiropractic physician based in Minneapolis.
What Is Functional Neurology—and Why Does It Matter?
Functional neurology is more than just an alternative approach—it’s a complete shift in how we understand and treat the brain.
Dr. Reis breaks it down simply: traditional chiropractic focuses on the spine and musculoskeletal system, but when you zoom out, every adjustment sends signals to the brain. These signals impact posture, balance, inflammation, and yes—even cognition.
“Manual therapies can actually change central processing of the brain,” Dr. Reis explains. “It’s not just bones and joints. It’s about upgrading the software—your brain.”
Rather than using medications or surgery, functional neurology emphasizes non–invasive brain rehabilitation—combining visual, vestibular, cognitive, and physical therapies customized to each patient’s needs.
The Truth About Brain Injury Recovery: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
At Shane Smith Law, we regularly meet clients with mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) after car accidents. Despite the “mild” label, their symptoms are life-altering—debilitating migraines, vertigo, mental fog, or balance issues that don’t show up on an MRI.
That’s where Dr. Reis comes in.
“We see so many patients who have been to big institutions, primary care, even neurologists, and still don’t have answers,” he says. “Our first goal is always education and empowerment.”
His approach starts with a detailed consultation—not to sell treatment, but to see if his clinic is even the right fit. Sometimes, that means referring out for imaging or additional testing before care begins.
“We don’t want you dependent on us,” he adds. “Our goal is to give you your life back.”
Nutrition: The Underrated Weapon in Brain Recovery
You’ve heard “you are what you eat”—but Dr. Reis takes it further.
He explains how gut health, inflammation, and even the order in which you eat your food can impact hormone and neurotransmitter levels that regulate mood, focus, and healing.
For example, eating fiber first, then protein and fat, and saving carbs for last can increase natural production of GLP–1—a powerful gut-brain hormone tied to appetite control and inflammation.
“Nutrition is brain fuel,” Dr. Reis says. “And no, eating well doesn’t have to break the bank. Aldi is one of our favorite places to shop.”
Why Integrative Care Works Better
One of the most powerful moments in this episode comes when Dr. Reis compares healthcare to a fragmented Rubik’s Cube.
You go to a chiropractor for neck pain.
An ENT for dizziness.
A GI for gut issues.
A neurologist for migraines.
But none of them are talking to each other.
At The Neural Connection, Dr. Reis tries to bring all those puzzle pieces together through integrative care, looking at the patient as a whole—not just a list of disconnected symptoms.
“You can’t build a house with just a hammer,” he says. “We need multiple tools, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines.”
The Future of Brain Health: Personal, Tech-Driven, and Patient-Centered
As a co-founder of several health-tech startups, Dr. Reis sees a future where AI, wearables, and personalized data allow patients to truly own their recovery journey.
Whether it’s a smartwatch guiding your rehab, or a digital health vault letting your dentist or neurologist access the data they need securely—tech should support healing, not complicate it.
Still, he stresses: tech must serve the patient—not the system.
“It’s not about how fancy the tool is,” he says. “If it doesn’t help you live a healthier life, it’s just noise.”
Why This Matters for Personal Injury Victims
Many people injured in car accidents suffer lingering, misunderstood symptoms. When traditional medicine fails to give answers, integrative neurology offers a path forward.
If you or someone you love is suffering from concussion symptoms after a crash, you don’t have to walk that road alone.
In pain, call Shane!
Reach out to Shane Smith Law at 980-999-9999 for a free consultation. We’ll help you get connected with doctors who understand what you’re going through—and fight to get you the support and care you need.
🧠 To learn more about Dr. Reis and his clinic, visit TheNeuralConnection.com
