Manahawkin ADHD May Find Benefit from Chiropractic

ADHD continues to be 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 blog aims to explore how Manahawkin chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, sharing valuable insights for Manahawkin chiropractic patients and parents at Manahawkin Chiropractic Center.

 

 

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 US 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 split into two main groups:

1. Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems with organization of tasks.
2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to stay seated, excessive talking, and cutting off others while talking.

 

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, 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 educational support (ie, IEPs and classroom accommodations). These procedures aim to decrease symptoms and enhance functionality. While they can be effective, they are not without limitations. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies require regular involvement and time to show results. With these in mind, some parents seek alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care, to complement traditional methods.

 

 

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. Chiropractors employ a holistic approach, considering the body as an interconnected system. By focusing on spinal health, chiropractors aim to optimize the nervous system, which could positively impact various bodily functionslike behavior and cognition. 

 

 

Several studies and case reports describe the possible benefits of chiropractic care for ADHD:

1. 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).
2. Chiropractic Management of a Patient with Symptoms of ADHD: This case study revealed improvements in a child’s ADHD symptoms following chiropractic adjustments. (2).
3. 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).
4. The Effects of Chiropractic Adjustment on Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity in Children with ADHD: A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) demonstrated promising results, indicating decreases in ADHD following chiropractic care. (4).
5. 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, involving collaboration between chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, ensures the greatest possible outcomes for the child.

 

 

 

Make your Manahawkin chiropractic appointment soon. 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.