Montreal 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 traditionally prescribed, complementary approaches such as chiropractic care are gaining attention for their potential benefits. This post aims to explore how Montreal chiropractic care may add benefit to the management of ADHD symptoms, providing valuable insights for Montreal chiropractic patients and parents at Dr. Hoang's Chiropractic Clinic.

 

 

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder distinguished by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It manytimes precedes challenges in school, professional, and social settings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that approximately 6.1 million children in the United States have been identified as having ADHD as of 2016 impacting approximately 9.4% of children, rendering it one of the most widespread childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. The main symptoms of ADHD are allocated into two main groups:

1. Inattention: Difficulty keeping attention, numerous careless mistakes, and problems organizing tasks.
2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Fidgeting, inability to remain seated, excessive talking, and cutting off others while talking.

 

It takes a team to diagnose and establish a treatment plan for ADHD: pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can considerably affect a child’s educational performance and social interactions, often leading to emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD usually involves 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 decrease symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be efficacious, 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 detecting and treating musculoskeletal 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 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 features the diversity 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 showed 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 utilize alternative treatments, including chiropractic care, for managing 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) showed promising outcomes, indicating reductions in ADHD after chiropractic care. (4).
5. 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, boosts the opportunity for the greatest possible outcomes for the child.

 

 

 

Schedule your Montreal chiropractic appointment today. If you are interested in exploring chiropractic care for ADHD, ask us at your next visit! We’d be honored to be a part of your child’s healthcare team.