Concord, NC ADHD May Find Benefit from Chiropractic
May 30, 2024
ADHD continues to be a challenge for affected kids, adults, and their families. While traditional medical treatments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are traditionally prescribed, complementary approaches such as chiropractic care are gaining attention for their potential benefits. This blog aspires to explore how Concord, NC chiropractic care may add benefit to the management of ADHD symptoms, providing valuable insights for Concord, NC chiropractic patients and parents at Pure Chiropractic.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes precedes challenges in academic, 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 identified as having ADHD as of 2016 impacting approximately 9.4% of children, rendering it one of the most widespread neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The main 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 establish a treatment plan for ADHD involving pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly 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 methods aspire to decrease symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be successful, they are not without drawbacks. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies demand consistent involvement 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 recognized for its ability to diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal spinal pain conditions, particularly 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 focusing 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 possible 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 demonstrated 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 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 results, signifying 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 benefiting children with ADHD. (5).
A multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, ensures the greatest possible outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Pure Chiropractic
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he describes the potential effects of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management on the nervous system. Most interesting!
Make your Concord, NC chiropractic appointment now. If you are ready to explore chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We’d be honored to be a part of your child’s healthcare team.