Step by step
Treatment program
Step 1
Intake interview
During the first consultation, we begin with an intake interview. This takes about an hour and a half and aims to gain a clear understanding of your symptoms and any limitations. We'll discuss the results of the intake form you completed and submitted beforehand. We'll also discuss your medical history, any relevant circumstances, and any progress you may have already made to alleviate your symptoms.
Step 2
Neurological and metabolic tests
Following the intake interview, we'll perform a wide range of basic neurological and metabolic tests. These include testing your balance, reaction time, sense of smell, and taste. We'll also measure vital signs in your body, such as your blood pressure, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, oxygen transport capacity, and blood vessel tone.
Step 3
Selective tests
Using the insights from the initial consultation and the aforementioned tests, we gain a good understanding of how your brain functions. Based on this, we may administer one or more selective tests, such as a CAPS, saccado, or pupillary reflex measurement. A blood test may also be performed to gain a more complete picture of underlying causes and symptoms. For this purpose, we collaborate with renowned independent laboratories in the Netherlands and abroad.
CAPS Measurement
We use the CAPS (Comprehensive Assessment of Postural Systems) measurement instrument to assess your balance. This measurement is important because the ability to maintain balance is closely linked to the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. By asking you to maintain your balance in various situations (including: eyes open, eyes closed, head tilted in different directions, multitasking), we identify potential limitations in your brain's functioning.
Saccadometer
This measurement allows for accurate detection of brain damage or injury. We do this with the saccadometer, an advanced diagnostic device that measures the speed and accuracy of your eye movements with extreme precision. This measurement is important because the complex and sensitive motor functions of the eyes are closely linked to brain function.
Reflex Measurement
By measuring the pupillary reflex, we collect objective data that helps diagnose concussions and other cognitive problems and functions. We do this using pupillometer technology.
Step 4
Personalised treatment plan
Using all the insights from the previous steps, we develop a customized treatment plan that we present to you after the initial consultation. We will discuss which treatments you can expect and why this is the best approach to address your symptoms. The treatment plan typically includes at least six treatments, depending on our findings, and can consist of, for example, a three-week program with two treatments per week. However, a three- or five-day program with two treatments per day is also possible.
The treatment plan includes a large number of targeted neurological exercises that you will perform at our practice. The use of a high-tech three-dimensional balance chair is generally a standard feature. You will also work on your recovery at home or at your temporary residence. A key aspect of this is training your brain by rehearsing specific activities. Think, for example, of light cognitive and/or physical exercises.
During the treatment period, we monitor your progress using diagnostic measurements. Depending on the results, the treatment plan will be adjusted in consultation with you. At the end of the treatment period, you will receive a balanced exercise program to continue working on your recovery at home.
Possible applications during a treatment plan
GyroStim: Three-dimensional balance chair
This high-tech, computer-controlled chair contributes significantly to the recovery of neurological functions by rotating around its axes in various ways and at various speeds. Based on your symptoms, test results, and progress, we will create a suitable movement profile. While rotating, we may ask you to perform specific tasks, such as reading or writing.
HBOT: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
The Functional Neurology Institute offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). During this treatment, you lie in a comfortable oxygen tent where you breathe 100% pure oxygen under increased pressure, allowing oxygen to reach and repair even hard-to-reach tissues in the body. This aids in faster recovery after trauma, brain injury, and/or inflammation. You undergo the treatment individually in a peaceful setting to optimize oxygen metabolism.
TRT Softwave: Tissue Regeneration Technology
New at the Functional Neurology Institute in Lisse: SoftWave therapy, an innovative, painless treatment that helps the body heal itself. Using shock waves, blood flow, cell renewal, and pain relief are stimulated—without surgery or medication. This technology is used worldwide and is now also available in Lisse.
Nutritional Supplements: Macrogenix
Your body may be deficient in certain nutrients. This can be due to your diet or genetic factors. Deficiencies in certain nutrients can lead to malfunctioning brain functions. Therefore, supplementing these deficiencies with high-quality nutritional supplements can be part of the treatment plan. These supplements are developed and produced in-house by the Functional Neurology Institute.
Step 5
Aftercare
As many as 80% of our patients return to their previous or desired level of functioning after completing our personalized treatment program and require no further treatment. A few return biannual or annual to maintain their results. For patients who, despite their positive progress, do not immediately achieve their recovery goals, a few additional treatment sessions are usually sufficient. These take place approximately four to eight weeks after the initial treatment period.
At the end of the treatment period, you will receive a balanced neurotraining program to continue working on your recovery at home.