Flex Diet Podcast Episode 351: Brain Rehab That Works: Tools for Concussions & Migraines w/ Dr. Ayla Wolf
In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Eila Wolf, who specializes in functional neurology and Chinese medicine. We dig into how these fields come together to help people dealing with concussions, migraines, and chronic pain — and why traditional approaches often fall short.
Dr. Wolf walks us through the science behind her methods, including how acupuncture, vestibular work, and eye movement assessments can reveal what’s really going on in the brain after an injury. We also talk about her new book, The Concussion Breakthrough, and how it’s helping patients who’ve been struggling with long-term symptoms finally find a path forward.
If you want a deeper understanding of how the brain heals — and how functional neurology can help you or someone you know recover faster and more completely — you’ll get a ton out of this conversation.
Sponsors:
- Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
- Tecton Ketone Esters: https://tectonketones.com
Available now:
- Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.
Episode Chapters:
- 00:46 Exploring Functional Neurology
- 01:23 Concussions and Eye Movements
- 02:09 Dr. Wolf’s Book and Newsletter
- 02:42 Starting the Conversation
- 02:49 Dr. Wolf’s Lecture at Northwestern
- 03:40 Better PowerPoint Presentation Tips
- 04:29 Challenges of Creating New Talks
- 05:57 AI in Research and Presentation
- 07:22 Cadaver Lab Experience in Toronto
- 09:07 Acupuncture and Anatomical Research
- 09:54 History and Acceptance of Chinese Medicine
- 11:47 Skepticism and Evidence in Acupuncture
- 13:41 Research Design Challenges
- 17:18 Innovative Acupuncture Studies
- 21:34 Psychedelics and Research
- 23:15 Dr. Wolf’s Journey into Acupuncture
- 27:08 Favorite Herbs and Their Benefits
- 29:16 Introduction to Functional Neurology
- 33:18 Case Studies and Clinical Insights
- 35:59 Sensory Tricks for Migraines
- 38:13 Mechanisms Behind Sensory Tricks
- 39:32 Light Sensitivity and the Midbrain
- 40:45 Personal Experience with a Health App
- 41:31 Understanding Light Sensitivity
- 42:59 Case Study: Pupil Response and Eye Pain
- 44:09 Eye Movements & Concussion Diagnosis
- 47:06 Gaze Stability and Neurological Insights
- 52:19 The Concussion Breakthrough Book
- 55:45 Complex Cases in Functional Neurology
- 01:04:27 Visual + Vestibular Integration
- 01:14:55 Final Thoughts and Resources
Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy:
- Episode 132: The Effects of Creatine Supplements on Brain Function, Concussion, and Sports Performance with Dr Eric Rawson
- YouTube: https://youtu.be/g7f8yHNlawU
- Episode 311: Maximizing Athletic Performance with Neurology: Insights from Dr. Dylan Seeley
Connect with Dr Wolf:
- The Concussion Breakthrough: https://www.amazon.com/Concussion-Breakthrough-Discover-Missing-Recovery/dp/B0FDBLVDVH
- Website: https://www.acupunctureneurology.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayla_wolf354
Get In Touch with Dr Mike: