We’re pleased to share that Dr Johnson Huang’s latest research has been published in the Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal, marking an important contribution to the growing field of functional neurology.
The peer-reviewed article, titled Improved reading and academic performance: A case series of 3 dyslexic students with learning disability, explores how integrative, brain-based therapies may influence academic performance in children with learning challenges.
What the study examined
This case series followed 3 students aged 7-15. Two had formal diagnoses of dyslexia, while the third exhibited significant learning difficulties without a formal diagnosis.
The study aimed to observe changes in academic and cognitive function following a multimodal therapy approach rooted in chiropractic care and functional neurology.
Each participant underwent a structured 12-week program consisting of 24 in-clinic sessions, reinforced with daily home exercises to support neuroplastic change and sensory integration.
The therapeutic protocols used included:
- Chiropractic adjustments via the NeuroImpulse Protocol™
- Functional neurology interventions based on The Melillo Method™
- Photobiomodulation (low-level laser therapy)
- Digital neuroplasticity platforms such as Neurosage™
- Interactive metronome and ocular motor training
- Multisensory stimulation, including red light, aroma therapy and auditory co-activation.
The brain science behind the study
The study looked at how the brain’s two sides (hemispheres) work together when it comes to reading and learning. In people with dyslexia, the left side of the brain (which helps with language and reading) may be slower to develop or process information. This can make it harder to recognise sounds, form words or keep up in the classroom.
To support these areas, the therapy program focused on gently stimulating the left side of the brain, while also engaging the right side of the cerebellum, a part of the brain that helps with movement, coordination and focus. By activating both areas in a specific way, the program aimed to build stronger brain connections to support reading, attention and learning.
Notably, all 3 students demonstrated measurable improvements across various domains, including:
- Reading fluency and eye-tracking
- Attention span and motivation
- Reduction of retained primitive reflexes
- Stabilised autonomic indicators such as heart rate and breathing patterns.
Advancing the conversation in functional neurology
While this case series cannot be generalised to broader populations, it represents a meaningful step in the academic exploration of neuroplastic, non-pharmaceutical interventions for dyslexia and related learning difficulties.
Peer-reviewed publication in the Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal reflects the methodological rigour of the study and its relevance to current discourse in chiropractic and functional neurology.
Book a personalised assessment
At Neurofit Brain Centre, we provide tailored, measurable programs designed to support individuals with a variety of learning challenges. Our therapies incorporate fun, engaging, and evidence-informed brain-based exercises.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice.
References
- Huang, J. S.-F. (2025). Improved reading and academic performance: A case series of 3 dyslexic students with learning disability. Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal, 5(4). Retrieved from http://www.apcj.net/papers-issue-5-4/#HuangDyslexia, [Accessed 1 September 2025]
- Australian Dyslexia Association, What is dyslexia? https://dyslexiaassociation.org.au/what-is-dyslexia/, [Accessed 1 September 2025]
- Jalili, M., Asl, A. S., & Motaghi, Z. (2023). Neural correlates of developmental dyslexia: A systematic review of neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies. Iranian Journal of Psychiatry, 18(3), 196–207. https://ijps.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijps/article/view/3603, [Accessed 1 September 2025]
