Carrolltown ADHD May Find Benefit from Chiropractic
May 30, 2024
ADHD continues to be a challenge for affected kids, adults, and their families. While traditional medical treatments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are traditionally prescribed, alternative approaches such as chiropractic care are getting attention for their potential benefits. This blog aspires to look at how Carrolltown chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, sharing valuable insights for Carrolltown chiropractic patients and parents at Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder typified by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes leads to challenges in academic, occupational, and social settings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.1 million children in the US have been identified as having ADHD as of 2016 affecting approximately 9.4% of children, rendering it one of the most widespread neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The primary symptoms of ADHD are divided into two main groups:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to stay seated, excessive talking, and cutting off others while talking.
Usual Care of ADHD
It takes a team to diagnose and set a treatment plan for ADHD involving pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly influence a child’s educational performance and social interactions, often leading to emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD usually includes 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 procedures aim to reduce symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be effective, they are not without limitations. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies demand regular involvement and time to show results. With these in mind, some parents look for alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care, to round out traditional methods.
How Chiropractic May Help ADHD
Chiropractic care is known for detecting and treating musculoskeletal spinal pain conditions, particularly those involving the spine. Emerging research suggests that chiropractic adjustments may offer benefits for individuals with ADHD. Chiropractors employ a holistic approach, considering the body as an interconnected system. By focusing on spinal health, chiropractors seek to optimize the nervous system, which could positively impact various bodily functionslike behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports depict the possible benefits of chiropractic care for ADHD:
- A National Description of Treatment among United States Children and Adolescents with ADHD: This study emphasizes the variety of treatments used for ADHD, including complementary approaches like chiropractic care. (1).
- Chiropractic Management of a Patient with Symptoms of ADHD: This case study demonstrated improvements in a child’s ADHD symptoms after chiropractic adjustments. (2).
- Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Children with ADHD: This study found that a significant number of parents utilize alternative treatments, including chiropractic care, for coping with 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) showed promising outcomes, indicating reductions 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 enhance aspects of motor control, potentially helping children with ADHD. (5).
A multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, boosts the opportunity for the greatest possible outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates the possible effects of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management on the nervous system. Most interesting!
Schedule your Carrolltown chiropractic appointment now. If you are ready to explore chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We’d be honored to be a part of your child’s healthcare team.
