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Most likely, you've heard of chiropractic care before. What you may not know is that some people use chiropractic, or chiropractic treatment, to address symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
So, is chiropractic effective for ADHD symptoms? What does the research say, and how does it work? In this article, we will talk about what chiropractic medicine is, whether chiropractic treatment can help with symptoms of ADHD, and how to find a chiropractor near you.
What Is Chiropractic Medicine?
Chiropractic is a healthcare profession that works to address health problems through the idea that the body can heal itself. More specifically, chiropractic medicine is built on the theory that spinal adjustments applied to areas of spinal dysfunction, called subluxations, can improve nervous system functioning.
By focusing on the neuromusculoskeletal system and ensuring that it's functioning properly, chiropractic treatment can address a variety of physical and mental health concerns. Chiropractic adjustments can be used independently or alongside other treatments.
While there are some things that chiropractic medicine can't treat, like infections or osteoporosis, research shows that it can be helpful for those seeking improvement in neck or back pain, mental health concerns (like stress), frequent headaches, and more. What about ADHD symptoms?
Can Chiropractic Care Help With ADHD?
Chiropractic care is not new and dates back to 1895. However, the uses of chiropractic treatment have continued to grow over time.
Research shows that there is a connection between chiropractic manipulation and improvement in symptoms of ADHD. One small study on children with ADHD ages 9-13 who engaged in chiropractic care for a minimum of five months suggested that chiropractic therapy can have a positive effect on symptoms of ADHD, including inattentiveness, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and social, emotional, and behavioral symptoms.
Yet another study, this time focused on one child who engaged in chiropractic care involving spinal manipulative therapy, stretching, and soft tissue therapy, found that after a year of treatment, the child experienced subjective improvements in episodes of acting out, the ability to follow instructions, and general performance at home and school.
At the same time, there's not enough high-quality evidence to show that chiropractic care is an effective treatment for ADHD. The general consensus in the medical community is that more research is required for us to call chiropractic effective as a treatment for ADHD. At this time, combined medication and therapy are typically the recommended line of treatment for ADHD.
This does not necessarily mean that someone shouldn't try chiropractic care for a child's ADHD symptoms. Evidence suggests that spinal adjustments can affect brain activity, and it is a natural way to help treat various health concerns. If your child finds it valuable, or if you feel they might, chiropractic therapy is worth it.
How it works
In the body, the spinal cord extends from the brain and through the spine. If spinal misalignment occurs, it can lead to inflammation and compression in one's joints, contributing to a variety of possible adverse effects. A chiropractor will usually start the process of addressing ADHD and related concerns by looking for subluxations in the spine.
When subluxations are addressed, it relieves pressure on the nervous system caused by misalignment. In turn, the entire nervous system functions better. Since the nervous system has such a major impact on the mind and body, this can lead to many positive effects, including improvements in your child's ADHD symptoms, behavior, and overall well-being.
Chiropractic medicine is a holistic, meaning whole-person, approach. In addition to spinal adjustments, a chiropractor may be able to provide other tips to help manage a child's condition in some instances. For example, helpful daily activities and foods to include or avoid in a child's diet. If there are more problems (such as pain or balance issues) that a chiropractor can help with, they might address these matters as well during the course of your child's treatment.
Again, chiropractic doesn't need to be the only component of a ADHD child's treatment plan. Some people use chiropractic care as a part of their child's treatment plan in addition to medication and behavior therapy, whereas others view chiropractic medicine as a natural alternative to medication treatments. Consult with your child's doctors before you make any changes to their current treatment plan.
As with any other treatment options for ADHD, it's important to remember that ADHD is generally seen as a lifelong condition. Once viewed as a disorder that primarily impacts children, we now know that ADHD usually extends into adulthood. While hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattention, and other symptoms of ADHD can be managed, there's no known cure for the condition.
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Finding A Chiropractor For Kids With ADHD
Like any other medical professional, chiropractors sometimes have specialties or work with patients in specific populations. Ideally, you should look for chiropractors who have worked with children diagnosed with ADHD before. That way, you know that the chiropractor you find will have a full understanding of the symptoms of ADHD and how to work with young people diagnosed with the condition.
With that in mind, here are some ways to find a chiropractor for children with ADHD.
Use an online chiropractor directory
Although you can start looking for a provider with a basic web search, a directory of chiropractors can help you find multiple potential providers in one place. While there are many more, here are two directories to start with:
Often, you'll be able to narrow your list down with a directory easily because they allow you to filter professionals by zip code and other features.
Ask your insurance company for recommendations
Due to the cost of care, insurance coverage is a factor in pursuing nearly any treatment for most people in the United States. When you call your insurance company directly, you can ask for recommendations for chiropractors who work with children in your area and are covered by your insurance plan. Some insurance plans have directories that let you search for doctors and a host of other medical professionals on their websites.
Talk with your child's doctor
Your child's doctor may be able to provide you with a referral to a chiropractor in your area. Make an appointment with your child's doctor, whether that's a pediatrician or another doctor they see regularly, and ask for a referral to a chiropractor who has experience working with children with ADHD.
Takeaway
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is generally considered a lifelong condition, and it can affect a person's life in many ways. There are an increasing number of treatments for ADHD, however, and many children and adults with ADHD can and do thrive. The goal of treatment for ADHD of any kind is to improve a person's quality of life and manage symptoms. While further research is needed, there's some evidence to support chiropractic care for ADHD symptoms.
Chiropractic treatment can be used alongside other treatment options for ADHD. To find chiropractors in your area, use a directory to look for chiropractors who work with ADHD and behavioral symptoms in kids, contact your health insurance company to see who they cover, or ask another medical professional on your child's care team for a referral. If you want to adjust your child's treatment plan, consult with their doctor first.
About
Dr. Carrie Jackson, PhD
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