New York City 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 normally prescribed, complementary approaches such as chiropractic care are getting attention for their potential benefits. This blog aims to look at how New York City chiropractic care may add benefit to the management of ADHD symptoms, providing beneficial insights for New York City chiropractic patients and parents at Rosenberg Wellness Center.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder distinguished by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes precedes challenges in academic, 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 affecting approximately 9.4% of children, rendering it one of the most common childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. The main symptoms of ADHD are divided into two main groups:
- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to remain seated, excessive talking, and interrupting others.
Usual Care of ADHD
It takes a group to diagnose and establish a treatment plan for ADHD: pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can considerably impact a child’s educational performance and social interactions, frequently triggering emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD typically includes a mix of behavioral therapy (ie, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), medication (ie, stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines), and school support (ie, IEPs and classroom accommodations). These methods aim to reduce symptoms and enhance functionality. While they can be effective, they are not without drawbacks. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies require regular participation and time to produce results. With these in mind, some parents seek alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care, to complement traditional methods.
How Chiropractic May Help ADHD
Chiropractic care is known for detecting and treating musculoskeletal spinal pain conditions, especially 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 focusing on spinal health, chiropractors aim to optimize the nervous system, which could positively impact various bodily functionslike behavior and cognition.
Case Study Insights
Several studies and case reports depict the potential advantages of chiropractic care for ADHD:
- A National Description of Treatment among United States Children and Adolescents with ADHD: This study highlights 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 revealed 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 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 outcomes, signifying decreases 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, involving collaboration between chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, ensures the greatest possible outcomes for the child.
CONTACT Rosenberg Wellness Center
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!
Make your New York City chiropractic appointment today. If you are interested in exploring chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We would be honored to be a part of your child’s healthcare team.