La Grande ADHD May Find Benefit from Chiropractic

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, complementary approaches such as chiropractic care are gaining attention for their potential benefits. This blog aims to look at how La Grande chiropractic care may add benefit to the management of ADHD symptoms, providing beneficial insights for La Grande chiropractic patients and parents at Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC.

 

 

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder typified by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It often leads to challenges in academic, occupational, and social settings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.1 million children in the United States have been identified as having ADHD as of 2016 affecting approximately 9.4% of children, rendering it one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. The primary symptoms of ADHD are divided into two main categories:

1. Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to stay seated, excessive talking, and interrupting others.

 

It takes a group to diagnose and set a treatment plan for ADHD: pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly affect a child’s performance in school and in social interactions, frequently leading to emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy (ie, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), medication (ie, stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines), and school support (ie, IEPs and classroom accommodations). These procedures aim to reduce symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be successful, they are not without limitations. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies require regular participation and time to show results. With these in mind, some parents seek alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care, to round out traditional methods.

 

 

Chiropractic care is recognized for its ability to diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving the spine. Emerging research suggests that chiropractic adjustments may offer benefits 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 influence various bodily functionslike behavior and cognition. 

 

 

Several studies and case reports highlight the potential advantages of chiropractic care for ADHD:

1. 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).
2. Chiropractic Management of a Patient with Symptoms of ADHD: This case study revealed improvements in a child’s ADHD symptoms following chiropractic adjustments. (2).
3. Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Children with ADHD: This study found that a significant number of parents use alternative treatments, including chiropractic care, for coping with their child's ADHD symptoms. (3).
4. The Effects of Chiropractic Adjustment on Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity in Children with ADHD: A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) demonstrated promising results, indicating reductions in ADHD after chiropractic care. (4).
5. The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Oculomotor Control in Children with ADHD: This study implied that chiropractic care might improve aspects of motor control, potentially helping children with ADHD. (5).

A multidisciplinary approach, bringing together chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, ensures the best outcomes for the child.

 

 

 

Make your La Grande chiropractic appointment now. If you are interested in exploring chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We’d be honored to be a member of your child’s healthcare team.