Elgin ADHD May Find Benefit from Chiropractic
May 30, 2024
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 post aspires to explore how Elgin chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, sharing beneficial insights for Elgin chiropractic patients and parents at Connected Chiropractic.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder distinguished by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It often 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 diagnosed with 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 split into two main categories:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems with organization of 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 affect a child’s performance in school and in social interactions, often triggering emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD usually 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 aspire to reduce symptoms and enhance 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 produce 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 spinal pain conditions, especially 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 concentrating on spinal health, chiropractors seek to optimize the nervous system, which could positively influence various bodily functions, including behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports support the potential advantages of chiropractic care for ADHD:
- A National Description of Treatment among United States Children and Adolescents with ADHD: This study features 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 revealed 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 handling 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 results, signifying reductions 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 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 best outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Connected Chiropractic
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates the potential effects of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management on the nervous system. Most interesting!
Schedule your Elgin chiropractic appointment now. If you are ready to explore chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We would be honored to be a member of your child’s healthcare team.
