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 explore how Largo
chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, sharing valuable insights for Largo chiropractic patients and parents at Hollstrom & Associates Inc.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder typified by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes leads to challenges in school, work, and social settings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.1 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD as of 2016 affecting approximately 9.4% of children, making it one of the most widespread neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The main symptoms of ADHD are allocated into two main categories:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to stay 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 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 educational support (ie, IEPs and classroom accommodations). These procedures aim to reduce symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be effective, they are not without drawbacks. 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 detecting and treating
musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving the spine. Emerging research suggests 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 seek to optimize the nervous system, which could positively impact various bodily functionslike behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports describe 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 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 after chiropractic adjustments. (2).
- Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Children with ADHD: This study revealed that a significant number of parents use 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 implied that chiropractic care might enhance aspects of motor control, potentially benefiting children with ADHD. (5).
A multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, ensures the best outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Hollstrom & Associates Inc