When evaluating a patient using Future Doc methods, among the earliest determinations to be made is whether or not that patient’s nervous system is regulating properly. The nervous system works similar to a computer and its connections, whereby it receives and sends out data in order to control or regulate function. A glitch in the system, a “virus”, or garbage in – garbage out situation, may similarly freeze up or confuse the nervous system.

Our nervous system is divided into two separate but connected systems, the central (CNS) and the autonomic (ANS) nervous systems. The CNS includes the brain, spinal cord, and all of their branches. The ANS is comprised of specialized clusters of nerve tissue (ganglia) that are located primarily along and in front of the vertebral column. These ganglia also have branches which communicate (connect) with all body organ systems and also branches that extend in a fabulously dense, web like fashion into the skin.

While having vitally important connections to the CNS, the ANS is self- regulating or “autonomous”, i.e. self- governing. This system doesn’t require our conscious thought or awareness in order to carry out its incalculable functions. All basic functions of livingness are regulated by the ANS.
In chiropractic 101, we chiropractors learn the term “innate intelligence” when referring to the ANS. We are taught to revere this system as the center of health and healing. This inborn, intelligent system and its functions do not have to be learned as one’s higher order CNS functions such as crawling, walking, and talking.

Innate intelligence (ANS) uses two distinct divisions, the sympathetic (SNS) and the Para- sympathetic (PSNS) nervous system. Essentially, these two divisions operate like a gas and brake pedals on a vehicle. For example, if digestion or a healing mode is necessary, the PSNS accelerates while the brakes are put on the SNS. When problem solving, exercising or fear is appropriate, the SNS dominates over the PSNS. The ANS continuously monitors the internal and external environment in order to regulate SNS and PSNS activity. Health and healing are intimately dependent upon a properly working ANS.

In the Future Doc practice, a computerized software system is used during initial patient evaluations to determine the status of the ANS. This technology saves on time and cost in cases where the ANS is not regulating appropriately. If the brake or gas pedal doesn’t work or if one pushes the brakes causing acceleration that becomes the priority to handle. An estimated 80% of patients entering our Future Doc practice have disrupted ANS function. The usual causes are one or more of the five common stressors and/or spinal misalignment as discussed in previous Future Doc articles.

The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, diet and the cause and prevention of disease.”
– Thomas A. Edison (1847-1931)

Do you have questions or comments? Please feel free to email me at
chirofiddler@yahoo.com.