Gut with brains

Michael Spiegel: Basically, all I need is a lamp to test light reflexes, a reflex hammer and my hands. And even though a comprehensive medical history has already been completed at Park Igls, every appointment starts with a conversation with the person in order to give me an overview of the person's overall condition. This is then followed by a physical examination from head to toe, standing and lying down. The great thing about neurology is that it takes just a few simple steps to pinpoint the source of the complaint. If additional imaging is required, an ultrasound is available directly at Park Igls, or we make an appointment with a radiologist. Neurological examinations are generally very efficient and pain-free.

Gartner: Neurological complaints do not disappear within weeks, and many conditions cannot be fully cured. But we can give people the tools they need to improve their quality of life in the long term. Based on each person’s specific diagnosis, we give them an optimal treatment plan and help them to better understand themselves and their bodies.

Gartner: The foundation of each stay is always the Modern Mayr Cure. This is because we believe – and there is now increasing scientific evidence for this – that the gut is the root of health. Usually, the intestinal flora of people is compromised, and we bring it back into a healthy balance over the course of a stay with us. This also helps to improve other existing symptoms in the long term. The Neuro-Fit package also includes massages to loosen up muscles as they are often affected by neurodegenerative conditions. Physiotherapy is also included. Our therapists are trained in neuro-physiotherapy and can help patients to improve their movement and mobility patterns, for example. The programme also comprises Feldenkrais sessions, which provide additional support in internalising new movements.

Spiegel: Physical activity is extremely important for neurodegenerative diseases. Neurological conditions often lead to people feeling restricted in their movements or they experience pain. That's why people often avoid certain movements and activities, but the exact opposite makes sense. A stay at Park Igls is all about regaining confidence in your body and allowing it to cope with strain and stress. The brain needs to be constantly stimulated in order to relearn and consolidate certain processes.

Gartner: Conversational therapy is also an important part. Many neurodegenerative conditions cannot be cured, and that gets to you. You may feel trapped in your own body. This is why support from clinical psychologists who are well-versed in neurology is extremely important. In fact, the counselling doors at Park Igls are always open to all guests.

Gartner: There are more and more studies that focus on the connection between the gut, the microbiome, the related metabolic situation and the central nervous system. Increasing evidence suggests that strengthening the microbiome supports the treatment of neurodegenerative conditions.

Spiegel: There are studies that clearly show that the bacterial composition in our gut has a decisive influence on our health and even our personality. Special diets such as the Mayr Cure alter the microbiome within less than 24 hours and have a positive influence on both body and mind. The axis between brain and gut is therefore clearly present.

Gartner: Henning Sartor, who I would say is one of the best research brains at the Mayr Society, has postulated that we have two brains: our primary brain in the gut, from which our secondary brain has developed in the course of evolution.

Spiegel: The nerve structures and receptors of the brain and gut are actually quite similar. At the same time, both work completely independently of each other.

Gartner: We Mayr Doctors definitely do. It seems as if the gut and brain are in constant dialogue, with the gut possibly having more to say to the brain than vice versa.