McHenry 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, alternative approaches such as chiropractic care are getting attention for their potential benefits. This post aims to explore how McHenry chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, sharing valuable insights for McHenry chiropractic patients and parents at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder distinguished by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes precedes challenges in school, occupational, 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 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 categories:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, frequent careless mistakes, and problems with organization of tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to remain seated, excessive talking, and cutting off others while talking.
Usual Care of ADHD
It takes a group to diagnose and establish a treatment plan for ADHD: pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can considerably impact a child’s educational performance and social interactions, often leading to emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD typically involves 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 enhance functionality. While they can be efficacious, they are not without drawbacks. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies require consistent involvement and time to produce results. 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 recognized for its ability to detecting and treating musculoskeletal spinal pain conditions, especially 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 aim to optimize the nervous system, which could positively impact various bodily functions, including behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports support the possible benefits 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 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 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 decreases 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 improve 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 OrthoIllinois Chiropractic
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!
Make your McHenry chiropractic appointment today. If you are ready to explore chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We would be honored to be a part of your child’s healthcare team.
