Baton Rouge 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, complementary approaches such as chiropractic care are getting attention for their potential benefits. This blog aims to look at how Baton Rouge chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, providing beneficial insights for Baton Rouge chiropractic patients and parents at Medical Spine and Sports Injury and Rehab Centers.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder distinguished by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It often precedes challenges in school, occupational, and social settings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that 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 common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The primary symptoms of ADHD are divided into two main groups:
- Inattention: Difficulty keeping attention, frequent careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to stay seated, excessive talking, and cutting off others while talking.
Usual Care of ADHD
It takes a group to diagnose and set a treatment plan for ADHD: pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly influence a child’s educational performance and social interactions, frequently triggering emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD usually includes 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 methods 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 demand regular participation and time to show results. With these in mind, some parents seek alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care, to round out traditional methods.
How Chiropractic May Help ADHD
Chiropractic care is known for diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal spinal pain conditions, particularly those involving the spine. Emerging research suggests that chiropractic adjustments may offer advantages for individuals with ADHD. Coming with a holistic approach, chiropractors look at the body as an interconnected system. By concentrating 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 highlight the possible benefits of chiropractic care for ADHD:
- A National Description of Treatment among United States Children and Adolescents with ADHD: This study emphasizes 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 found that a significant number of parents utilize 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) demonstrated promising results, signifying reductions in ADHD after chiropractic care. (4).
- The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Oculomotor Control in Children with ADHD: This study suggested that chiropractic care might enhance aspects of motor control, potentially benefiting children with ADHD. (5).
A multidisciplinary approach, bringing together chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, ensures the best outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Medical Spine and Sports Injury and Rehab Centers
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!
Schedule your Baton Rouge 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.
