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 gaining attention for their potential benefits. This blog aspires to explore how Carrolltown
chiropractic care may add benefit to the management of ADHD symptoms, providing beneficial insights for Carrolltown chiropractic patients and parents at Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder distinguished by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It often precedes 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 diagnosed with ADHD as of 2016 impacting approximately 9.4% of children, making it one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The primary symptoms of ADHD are split into two main groups:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, frequent careless mistakes, and problems with organization of tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to remain seated, excessive talking, and interrupting others.
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 impact a child’s educational performance and social interactions, often leading to emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD usually involves a combination of behavioral therapy (ie, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), medication (ie, stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines), and educational support (ie, IEPs and classroom accommodations). These procedures aspire to reduce symptoms and enhance functionality. While they can be effective, they are not without limitations: side effects of medications, consistency and time of behavioral therapies With these in mind, some parents look for 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, particularly those involving the spine. Emerging research implies that chiropractic adjustments may offer advantages for individuals with ADHD. Chiropractors employ a holistic approach, considering the body as an interconnected system. By concentrating on spinal health, chiropractors aim to optimize the nervous system, which could positively influence various bodily functions, including behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports highlight the possible advantages 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 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 employ 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, signifying decreases in ADHD following chiropractic care. (4).
- The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Oculomotor Control in Children with ADHD: This study implied 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 Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation