ADHD continues to be a challenge for affected kids, adults, and their families. While traditional medical treatments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are normally prescribed, complementary approaches such as chiropractic care are getting attention for their potential benefits. This blog aspires to look at how Millville
chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, providing beneficial insights for Millville chiropractic patients and parents at Wilson Family Chiropractic.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder typified by persistent 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 identified as having ADHD as of 2016 affecting 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 groups:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous 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: pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly affect 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 includes a mix 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 decrease symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be effective, they are not without drawbacks. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies demand regular participation and time to show results. With these in mind, some parents seek 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 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 seek to optimize the nervous system, which could positively influence various bodily functionslike behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports highlight 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 showed improvements in a child’s ADHD symptoms following 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) showed promising outcomes, indicating decreases in ADHD after chiropractic care. (4).
- The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Oculomotor Control in Children with ADHD: This study implied that chiropractic care might enhance aspects of motor control, potentially helping children with ADHD. (5).
A multidisciplinary approach, bringing together chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, boosts the opportunity for the greatest possible outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Wilson Family Chiropractic