Toronto ADHD May Find Benefit from Chiropractic

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 gaining attention for their potential benefits. This blog aspires to look at how Toronto chiropractic care may add benefit to the handling of ADHD symptoms, providing beneficial insights for Toronto chiropractic patients and parents at Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre.

 

 

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder distinguished by constant patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It often leads to challenges in academic, occupational, 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, making it one of the most widespread childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. The main symptoms of ADHD are divided 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 interrupting others.

 

It takes a team to diagnose and establish a treatment plan for ADHD involving pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, teachers, parents. ADHD can significantly impact a child’s educational performance and social interactions, frequently triggering emotional distress for both the child and family. Traditional management of ADHD usually includes a mix of behavioral therapy (ie, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), medication (ie, stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines), and educational support (ie, IEPs and classroom accommodations). These methods aim to reduce symptoms and improve functionality. While they can be effective, they are not without limitations. Medications can have side effects, and behavioral therapies require consistent involvement 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, especially those involving the spine. Emerging research suggests 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 functions, including behavior and cognition. 

 

 

Several studies and case reports highlight the potential benefits 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 demonstrated improvements in a child’s ADHD symptoms after 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 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) demonstrated promising results, signifying decreases in ADHD following chiropractic care. (4).
5. The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Oculomotor Control in Children with ADHD: This study suggested that chiropractic care might improve aspects of motor control, potentially benefiting children with ADHD. (5).

A multidisciplinary approach, bringing together chiropractors, pediatricians, and mental health professionals, boosts the opportunity for the greatest possible outcomes for the child.

 

 

 

Schedule your Toronto chiropractic appointment soon. 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.