Episode 351: Brain Rehab That Works: Tools for Concussions & Migraines w/ Dr. Ayla Wolf — Flex Diet Podcast

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
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnuYQ-GJ6to

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:

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter