ADHD and Chiropractic Care

Tantrums. Hyperactivity. Inattention. If you have a child diagnosed as ADHD, you know how challenging it is to find safe, effective treatments. This guide will help you learn why chiropractic care is becoming an increasingly popular treatment for ADHD.

Conventional treatment vs Chiropractic care
Conventional medicine usually prescribes medications to relieve symptoms. One of the most frequently prescribed, the stimulant Ritalin, can be effective for some, but it also may trigger a laundry list of side effects, from headaches and nausea to irritability and insomnia. In addition, stimulant drugs aren’t effective for up to 30 percent of children.

Chiropractic care is different. Chiropractors believe that ADHD is caused by muscular and skeletal imbalances that interfere with brain activity. When a chiropractor adjusts the spine, the message pathways are cleared, so the brain and spine can communicate properly with the rest of the body.

Does chiropractic care work?
Small-scale studies have shown promising results for chiropractic care’s effect on ADHD symptoms, including one that found spinal manipulations were 24% more effective than common ADHD medications. Another study found that chiropractic care reduced overt behavior activity by more than 70%, and 57% of the participant’s parents reported lower levels of hyperactivity.

Since chiropractors are focused on total wellness, they also may recommend therapies to complement spinal adjustments, like dietary changes. He or she may suggest foods or vitamins that can correct nutritional deficiencies.

You know how challenging life can be for your ADHD child and your family. You owe it to them to find a drug-free, non-invasive treatment for your child’s condition.

References
Kidd, Parris M. Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children: Rationale for Its Integrative Management. Alternative Medicine Review 2000 (Oct); 5 (5): 402–428

Giesen JM, Center DB, Leach RA: An evaluation of chiropractic manipulation as a treatment for hyperactivity in children. JMPT 1989;12:353-363.

Walton EV: "The effects of chiropractic treatment on students with learning and behavioral impairments due to neurological dysfunction." International Review of Chiropractic 1975;29:4-5:24-26.