ADHD diagnosis rates across the world are increasing. It is estimated that around 10 percent of children in the US have been diagnosed with this troubling condition. Many of these children and young people are on strong medication, and the side effects severely impact their lives.
What if there was another way? An increasing body of evidence suggests that other more gentle treatments, including chiropractic, can be effective. Read on to learn all about chiropractic and ADHD.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a condition that causes problems with hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can interfere with day-to-day life. Children with ADHD are likely to find school settings and other aspects of life more challenging than other children.
When it comes to understanding ADHD, there are many different world views. More often than not, though, medication will be prescribed by doctors. This medication can have severe side effects for some children. Also, it is not always effective in managing the condition.
Chiropractic and ADHD – What’s the Connection?
Many people will never even have considered chiropractic treatment for ADHD. First things first, though. What is a chiropractor? Let’s go back to basics before we talk about chiropractic and ADHD.
Chiropractors are best known for making spinal adjustments and manipulations to relieve pain in the muscles and joints. The adjustments can improve nerve conductivity and blood flow to the joints and muscles where the person is experiencing pain.
Research conducted at Duke University School of Medicine has shown that chiropractic treatment has had significant benefits for children with ADHD. Chiropractic care has been seen to affect children with ADHD positively and can lead to a reduction in symptoms.
The same results have been shown in case studies published in PubMed, specifically on how chiropractic adjustments can reduce ADHD symptoms in kids.
Chiropractic Guide to ADHD
ADHD is a condition that is based in the brain and diagnosed with behavioral symptoms. So it might seem strange to think that physical manipulation of the body could be helpful. However, the spinal cord carries neural signals from the brain to the rest of the body and vice versa.
A chiropractor will look for and address any subluxations in the spine. This relieves any pressure on the nervous system caused by misalignment and can help the whole nervous system to function better. This, in turn, can help to relieve ADHD symptoms and help the balance between brain and body.
Chiropractic Tips for Managing ADHD
Chiropractors are holistic practitioners who look at the whole person. As such, they may also have some lifestyle advice for people living with ADHD.
There are some particular types of food that people with ADHD should avoid. This includes processed food and anything containing artificial sweeteners, food coloring, or additives. Many practitioners will recommend a diet based on natural, organic foods and high in protein.
Your Chiropractic ADHD Guide
Now that you have learned more about chiropractic and ADHD, you might be ready to consider seeing a specialist for help with your child’s ADHD symptoms. Here at Dody Chiropractic Center for Wholeness, we are always happy to welcome new patients. Don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss how we can help you.
