Understanding Dizziness with Dr. Helena Esmonde

In this episode, Dr. David Traster of The Neurologic Wellness Institute sits down with Mark Faulkner of CON-CRĒT Creatine to explore the expanding science of creatine — far beyond strength training. With a background in physics, biochemistry, forensic toxicology, and athletic drug testing, Faulkner shares how creatine hydrochloride (CrHCL) was discovered and how it differs from traditional creatine monohydrate in absorption, dosing, and neurological applications. We discuss: Creatine as the rate-limiting molecule for ATP production Brain energy metabolism and cognitive performance Creatine deficiency in modern diets Kidney function myths and creatinine lab interpretation Bioavailability differences between monohydrate and CrHCL Huntington's disease research Emerging data on traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussion Immune system function and T-cell energy This episode reframes creatine as a foundational cellular energy molecule critical for muscle, brain, immune, and metabolic health. Educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

EPISODE 115 Can you train your brain in the gym? In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster speaks with Aaron Delgrolice, founder of Hybrid Fitness Training, about integrating neuroscience into movement and fitness. Aaron explains his top-down nervous system approach, emphasizing that neurological systems fire before muscular tissue. By assessing and retesting visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, and cerebellar systems, he creates individualized programs that improve pain, mobility, balance, and performance. The conversation explores: • Brain-based movement training • Breathwork and parasympathetic regulation • The neurological roots of chronic pain • Emotional stress and physical tension • Calisthenics and kettlebell training through a neuro lens • The future of individualized fitness This episode bridges functional neurology and modern performance training, highlighting how integrating the brain transforms movement and overall wellness. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

EPISODE 114 | Understanding Therapeutic Plasma Exchange with Dr. Peter Miller In this episode, we interview Dr. Peter Miller of VIP TPE in Boca Raton, Florida, to explore the science and clinical application of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE), also known as apheresis. We discuss: • What TPE is and how it works • ASFA guideline categories and clinical evidence • TPE in Guillain-Barré Syndrome, PANS/PANDAS, Myasthenia Gravis • IVIG combination therapy • The AMBAR Alzheimer's trial results • Safety, risks & outpatient candidacy • Emerging research in aging and inflammatory load reduction TPE works by removing harmful plasma components including antibodies, toxins, and neuroinflammatory proteins. While it does not reverse existing neurological damage, research suggests it may help slow disease progression in certain patient populations. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL Schedule a consultation at the link in bio This content is for educational purposes only and not medical advice.

EPISODE 113 | Treating Concussions with Dr. Melissa Biscardi In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, we interview concussion expert Dr. Melissa Biscardi about her multidisciplinary background and her work advancing brain injury rehabilitation. Topics include ocular motor dysfunction after concussion, her PhD research into virtual reality interventions in postconcussion syndrome, development of the Brain Toolkit app, sleep and medication considerations for brain health, and holistic recovery strategies addressing the vestibular system, eyes, and cervical spine. Listen & subscribe for more conversations exploring neurologic health and recovery. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

EPISODE 112 | Is chronic illness rooted in the body—or in how the brain and nervous system are communicating? In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. Cathleen King of Primal Trust shares her deeply personal recovery journey and the neuroscience behind nervous system regulation, brain retraining, and identity-level healing. After years of Lyme disease, mold toxicity, autoimmune illness, and nervous system collapse, Dr. King discovered that her symptoms were driven by a protective brain stuck in survival mode. This realization led to the creation of Primal Trust, a multi-level nervous system and inner work program that has guided nearly 20,000 people through healing. Topics include: Brain processing disorders & symptom memory loops Vagus nerve, limbic system & somatic regulation Why belief systems and identity matter in healing Illness identity & the fear of letting diagnoses go Timing vs. treatment in chronic illness recovery Neurologic Wellness Institute Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

PODCAST 111 | Dizziness can mean many different things — and understanding the nervous system is key to treating it correctly. In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. Traster is joined by Dr. Helena Esmonde, PT, DPT from Vestibular First, a specialist in vestibular rehabilitation and balance disorders. Together, they explore how the vestibular system works, why dizziness is often misdiagnosed, and how eye movements can help differentiate inner ear conditions from central neurologic issues. Topics discussed include: • The difference between dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance • How the vestibular system, vision, and proprioception interact • What causes BPPV and why it can often be resolved quickly • How vestibular rehab identifies stroke, vestibular migraine, and 3PD • Why individualized care matters more than rigid protocols This episode is essential listening for anyone dealing with chronic dizziness, balance issues, or neurologic symptoms.  If you're struggling with dizziness, vertigo, or balance concerns, our team provides advanced neurologic and vestibular evaluations.  www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

PODCAST 110 | In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, host Dr. David Traster interviews Dr. Cedrick Noel, a chiropractor and functional neurologist with more than two decades of experience helping patients who haven't found answers elsewhere. Dr. Noel discusses his evolution into functional neurology starting as a student with the Carrick Institute, the development of his multidisciplinary clinic, and why establishing a strong neurological foundation is critical before structural or gut-based interventions. The conversation covers his innovative tools—including the Focus Builder App, at-home spinal decompression devices, and the Gravity Reset vestibular approach—along with a heartfelt tribute to his late colleague, Dr. Jason Whitaker. Learn more about neurologic-based care and schedule a consultation: www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

PODCAST 109 | In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster welcomes Dr. Ayla Wolf, an experienced clinician specializing in the integration of functional neurology and Chinese medicine. With over 20 years in private practice, Dr. Wolf shares how acupuncture, herbal medicine, movement therapies, and nutrition can modulate the nervous system, improve autonomic regulation, and support conditions such as POTS, dysautonomia, migraines, mast cell activation syndrome, and brain injuries. This episode explores the science behind acupuncture, differential diagnosis in Chinese medicine, and why individualized care is essential for complex neurological cases.   Serving patients at our clinics in Boca Raton, FL, Chicago, IL, Wood Dale, IL, and Waukesha, WI Visit us at www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com

PODCAST 108 | In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster interviews Dr. Jonathan Chung to discuss modern neurologic care, upper cervical chiropractic, dizziness, and the growing influence of social media on patient health beliefs. Dr. Chung explains his clinical philosophy centered on anti-fragility, resiliency, and health independence, while addressing common misconceptions around the vagus nerve, atlas alignment, glymphatic function, and cervical biomechanics. The discussion also explores cervicogenic dizziness, the neck as a sensory organ, migraine and autonomic symptoms, and how fear-based messaging can worsen patient outcomes through the nocebo effect. The episode concludes with an important discussion on autoimmune disease awareness, including lupus, and why early detection is critical for long-term neurologic and systemic health. Learn more about neurologic-based care at the Neurologic Wellness Institute Serving patients at our clinics in Boca Raton, FL, Chicago, IL, Wood Dale, IL, and Waukesha, WI Visit us at www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com

PODCAST 107: Dizziness is one of the most complex and misunderstood symptoms in neurology — and it's rarely just an inner ear issue. In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster speaks with Dr. Amir Kheradmand, vestibular neurologist at Johns Hopkins University, about how dizziness, vertigo, balance, vision, and the brain are deeply interconnected. This conversation explores how clinicians differentiate dizziness from vertigo, why conditions like vestibular migraine and PPPD are becoming more common, and how abnormal eye movements help pinpoint where dysfunction exists in the nervous system. Dr. Kheradmand also discusses stroke red flags that can be missed, why imaging isn't always definitive, and how maladaptive brain states develop after vestibular injury. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on neuromodulation and why the future of dizziness treatment lies in individualized, brain-based care. 🎗️ Special thanks to the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA/VITA) for their advocacy, education, and support for patients worldwide. Subscribe to the Neurologic Wellness Podcast for expert insights into brain health, balance, and recovery. Learn more at www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com