ADHD remains a challenge for affected kids, adults, and their families. While traditional medical treatments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are commonly prescribed, complementary approaches such as chiropractic care are gaining attention for their potential benefits. This blog aspires to look at how Plainville
chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, providing valuable insights for Plainville chiropractic patients and parents at Layden Chiropractic.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes precedes challenges in school, occupational, and social settings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that approximately 6.1 million children in the US have been identified as having ADHD as of 2016 impacting approximately 9.4% of children, rendering it one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The primary symptoms of ADHD are split into two main categories:
- Inattention: Difficulty keeping attention, frequent careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to remain seated, excessive talking, and cutting off others while talking.
Usual Care of ADHD
It takes a group to diagnose and set a treatment plan for ADHD involving pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can considerably influence a child’s performance in school and in social interactions, frequently triggering emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy (ie, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), medication (ie, stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines), and school support (ie, IEPs and classroom accommodations). These methods aim to reduce symptoms and enhance functionality. While they can be successful, they are not without limitations. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies require regular participation and time to show results. With these in mind, some parents seek alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care, to complement traditional methods.
How Chiropractic May Help ADHD
Chiropractic care is known for diagnosing and treating
musculoskeletal conditions, especially those involving the spine. Emerging research implies that chiropractic adjustments may offer benefits for individuals with ADHD. Coming with a holistic approach, chiropractors look at the body as an interconnected system. By concentrating on spinal health, chiropractors aim to optimize the nervous system, which could positively impact various bodily functions, including behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports describe the possible benefits of chiropractic care for ADHD:
- A National Description of Treatment among United States Children and Adolescents with ADHD: This study highlights the diversity of treatments used for ADHD, including complementary approaches like chiropractic care. (1).
- Chiropractic Management of a Patient with Symptoms of ADHD: This case study showed improvements in a child’s ADHD symptoms after chiropractic adjustments. (2).
- Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Children with ADHD: This study revealed that a significant number of parents employ alternative treatments, including chiropractic care, for managing their child's ADHD symptoms. (3).
- The Effects of Chiropractic Adjustment on Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity in Children with ADHD: A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) demonstrated promising outcomes, indicating decreases in ADHD following chiropractic care. (4).
- The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Oculomotor Control in Children with ADHD: This study suggested that chiropractic care might improve aspects of motor control, potentially benefiting children with ADHD. (5).
A multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, boosts the opportunity for the best outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Layden Chiropractic