Richmond 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 commonly prescribed, alternative approaches such as chiropractic care are getting attention for their potential benefits. This blog aims to explore how Richmond chiropractic care may add benefit to the management of ADHD symptoms, sharing valuable insights for Richmond chiropractic patients and parents at Johnson Chiropractic.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes leads to challenges in school, work, 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 neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The main symptoms of ADHD are divided into two main categories:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems with organization of tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to remain seated, excessive talking, and cutting off others while talking.
Usual Care of ADHD
It takes a group to diagnose and establish a treatment plan for ADHD involving pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly influence a child’s performance in school and in social interactions, often triggering emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD typically 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 procedures aspire to reduce symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be successful, they are not without drawbacks: side effects of medications, consistency and time of behavioral therapies With these in mind, some parents look for 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 advantages for individuals with ADHD. Chiropractors employ a holistic approach, considering the body as an interconnected system. By concentrating on spinal health, chiropractors aim to optimize the nervous system, which could positively influence various bodily functionslike behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports highlight the potential benefits of chiropractic care for ADHD:
- A National Description of Treatment among United States Children and Adolescents with ADHD: This study emphasizes the variety of treatments used for ADHD, including complementary approaches like chiropractic care. (1).
- Chiropractic Management of a Patient with Symptoms of ADHD: This case study showed improvements in a child’s ADHD symptoms after chiropractic adjustments. (2).
- Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Children with ADHD: This study revealed that a significant number of parents employ 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 helping 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 Johnson Chiropractic
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates the potential effects of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management on the nervous system. Most interesting!
Make your Richmond 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 member of your child’s healthcare team.
