Oxford ADHD May Find Benefit from Chiropractic

ADHD remains a challenge for affected kids, adults, and their families.  While traditional medical treatments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are commonly prescribed, other approaches such as chiropractic care are gaining attention for their potential benefits. This post aims to explore how Oxford chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, providing valuable insights for Oxford chiropractic patients and parents at Satterwhite Chiropractic.

 

 

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes leads to challenges in school, professional, 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 impacting approximately 9.4% of children, rendering it one of the most widespread childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. The main symptoms of ADHD are divided into two main categories:

1. Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, frequent careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to stay seated, excessive talking, and interrupting others.

 

It takes a team to diagnose and set a treatment plan for ADHD involving pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly influence a child’s educational performance and social interactions, often leading to emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD usually involves a combination 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 improve functionality. While they can be successful, they are not without limitations. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies demand consistent participation and time to produce results. With these in mind, some parents seek alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care, to round out traditional methods.

 

 

Chiropractic care is recognized for its ability to detecting and treating musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving the spine. Emerging research suggests 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 concentrating on spinal health, chiropractors aim to optimize the nervous system, which could positively impact various bodily functions, including behavior and cognition. 

 

 

Several studies and case reports support the possible advantages of chiropractic care for ADHD:

1. A National Description of Treatment among United States Children and Adolescents with ADHD: This study highlights 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 demonstrated 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 utilize alternative treatments, including chiropractic care, for handling 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) showed promising results, signifying reductions 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 best outcomes for the child.

 

 

 

Schedule your Oxford chiropractic appointment now. If you are interested in exploring chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We’d be honored to be a part of your child’s healthcare team.